'Thai Poosam' festival celebrated with religious fervor across TN

Lakhs of devotees thronged the temples of Lord Murugan, especially the "Aarupadai Veedu" (six holy abodes dedicated to the lord) across Tamil Nadu on the auspicious occasion of "Thai Poosam" on Saturday.

Special prayers and abhishekams were performed at the six abodes -- Arulmigu Subramanya Swamy Temple at Thirupparankundram in Madurai, Arulmigu Dandayudhapani Swami Temple at Palani Hills in Dindigul district, Arulmigu Subramanya Swamy Temple at Thiruchendur in Thoothukudi district, Arulmigu Murugan Temple at Palamuthircholai in Madurai, Arulmigu Subramanya Swami Temple at Tiruttani in Tiruvallur district and Arulmigu Swaminathaswamy Temple at Swamimalai in Thanjavur district, besides several other  important temples since early this morning.

Many devotees, including women and children bearing "Kavadis" on their shoulders, carrying milk pots and bodies pierced with spears came on procession to the Lord Murugan temples to fulfill their vows.

Several devotees pierce their tongue and cheek, while some of them pull small chariots with hooks pierced to their bodies.

Thousands of devotees from various parts of the country and abroad congregated at the holy town of Palani to witness the annual temple car festival.

Thai Poosam is celebrated on the full moon day of the Tamil month of Thai every year. The festival symbolizes victory of good over evil.

According to legends, on this auspicious day, the holy lance was given to Lord Murugan by his mother Goddess Parvathi to annihilate demons Tharakasuran and his three brothers.

The festival is celebrated by Tamils not only in Tamil Nadu, but also in countries like Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Singapore, South Africa, Canada, Mauritius etc where there is significant presence of Tamil community.