Ther Thiruvizha (also known as the Chariot Festival) is not celebrated in all Hindu temples across Tamil Nadu. It is a significant religious and cultural event observed primarily in certain temples, particularly those dedicated to deities like Lord Murugan, Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Mariamman. These festivals are deeply rooted in local traditions and are often associated with specific temples and their respective deities.
Prominent Ther Thiruvizha Celebrations in Tamil Nadu
- Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai: The Ther Thiruvizha here is part of the grand Chithirai Festival, which celebrates the celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. The chariot procession is a central event, drawing thousands of devotees.
- Kapaleeswarar Temple, Mylapore (Chennai): This temple hosts a grand Ther Thiruvizha, where the chariot carrying Lord Kapaleeswarar and Goddess Karpagambal is pulled through the streets of Mylapore, accompanied by traditional music and dance.
- Arunachaleswarar Temple, Tiruvannamalai: The Ther Thiruvizha here is celebrated during the Tamil month of Karthikai, culminating in the Karthikai Deepam festival. A massive lamp is lit atop the Annamalai hills, and the deity’s chariot is taken around the hill in a sacred procession.
- Thiruvarur: Known for one of the oldest and largest chariot festivals, the Ther Thiruvizha here features a massive chariot of Lord Thyagaraja, pulled through the town in a grand procession lasting several days.
- Kumbakonam: During the Mahamaham Festival, celebrated once every twelve years, the Ther Thiruvizha is a significant event, with temple chariots carrying deities through the streets, drawing thousands of devotees.
- Periya Mariamman Temple, Erode: The Panguni Ther Thiruvizha is celebrated annually, featuring a grand chariot procession along with various traditional rituals.
Conclusion
While Ther Thiruvizha is a prominent festival in certain temples, especially in towns like Madurai, Chennai, Tiruvannamalai, and Thiruvarur, it is not a universal practice across all Hindu temples in Tamil Nadu. The celebration of this festival depends on the temple’s tradition, the deity worshipped, and the local customs. Therefore, not every Hindu temple in Tamil Nadu observes the Ther Thiruvizha