Vibrant Dussehra Celebrations in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, with Kinnar Community Honoring Goddess Kali

Namakkal, October 21 (Daily Kiran) : The Dussehra festival in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, was celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion at the Arunagiri Sullipalayam near Paramathi Velur. The event took place at the Sri Shivashakti Ardhanaari Nirantara Aghori Siddhar Peetham, where a large number of devotees, including members of the Kinnar community, gathered to participate.

The festivities commenced on the night of October 7 with village purification rituals aimed at ensuring a smooth celebration. On October 10, holy water was brought from the Kaveri River in a vessel known as ‘Teerthakudam.’ Following this, devotees began fasting and adorned themselves with special religious garlands to worship the goddess.

From October 11 to 19, daily religious programs and processions were held in and around the temple premises. Many devotees dressed as Goddess Kali participated in these processions, carrying the idol of the goddess while praying for family prosperity and the fulfillment of their wishes.

On the final day of the festival, special religious rituals were conducted. Numerous devotees, including members of the Kinnar community, donned the form of Goddess Kali and participated in processions while carrying pots filled with burning embers, known locally as ‘Teechatti.’ They danced, sang, and chanted praises of the goddess, expressing their faith and fulfilling their vows.

Thousands of devotees from surrounding villages joined the grand celebration, which was marked by a vibrant atmosphere of religious fervor. Participants had the opportunity to view and receive blessings from Goddess Kali, further deepening their spiritual connection.

The festival concluded with a communal meal, where food was distributed to the attendees. This event was organized by Shri Shri Aruna Nayak Kinnar Swamiga, showcasing the region’s religious faith, community participation, and traditional customs.