Rain threat looms over Maha Karthigai Deepam

TIRUVANNAMALAI is gearing for Maha Karthigai Deepam but this time, with a small group of people. On Thursday, a group of over 40 members of the Paruvatharajakula Vamsam, traditionally entrusted with the sacred duty of uplifting the Annamalaiyar Mahadeepam drum, reached the hilltop despite the challenges posed by a recent landslide.

- RAJALAKSHMI SAMPATH @Tiruvannamalai

The Tamil Nadu government has imposed a ban on devotees climbing the Arunachala Hills near the Arunachaleswara Temple during the Maha Deepam festival on Friday, citing safety concerns after the landslide. However, Minister Sekar Babu assured that a minimal number of personnel essential for the ritual, along with forest and police department staff, would be permitted to ascend the hill to ensure the continuity of this age-old tradition.