Mon May 12 14:44:18 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu Minister Promises Smoother Pilgrimage to Kannagi Temple

**Kumuli, India – May 12, 2025** – The annual Chitra Pournami festival at the Mangaladevi Kannagi Temple, located on the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border, drew thousands of devotees on Monday. Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Minister P.K. Sekar Babu, attending the celebrations, pledged to improve infrastructure and streamline the pilgrimage experience for visitors.

Minister Babu announced ongoing discussions with Kerala officials, including the delivery of a letter to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, to facilitate easier access to the temple. The temple, traditionally believed to have been built by Chera King Senguttuvan, sees a significant increase in visitors during the Chitra Pournami festival, celebrated during the Tamil month of Chitirai.

To address the growing number of pilgrims, the HR&CE Department plans to construct permanent facilities, including rest areas, to improve the comfort and convenience of devotees visiting throughout the year. The department, in collaboration with the Theni district administration, provided meals for an estimated 25,000 people during this year’s festival. Additional food provisions were also arranged in Uthamapalayam and Kumily for pilgrims arriving on foot.

Forest Department officials from both states collaborated to ensure the safety of devotees by fencing off forest areas to mitigate risks from wildlife. Minister Babu expressed confidence in ensuring a hassle-free pilgrimage experience in future years. The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the HR&CE Commissioner, Theni District Collector, and local MLAs.

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