Fri May 16 15:52:47 UTC 2025: ## Summary:

The article reports on the return of Lord Kallazhagar, the presiding deity of Sundararaja Perumal Temple, to his abode in Azhagarkoil, Madurai, marking the penultimate day of the Chithirai festival. Thousands of devotees participated in the event, welcoming the deity with flowers and prayers. The procession involved visits to various mandagapadis and a night halt at Appan Tirupathi, filled with special pujas and cultural programs. The festival concludes on Saturday with ‘Utsava Santhi.’

## News Article:

**Lord Kallazhagar Returns to Azhagarkoil, Throngs of Devotees Celebrate**

**MADURAI, May 16, 2025** – Thousands of devotees flocked to Madurai today to witness the return of Lord Kallazhagar, the presiding deity of Sundararaja Perumal Temple in Azhagarkoil, to his sacred abode. The event marked the penultimate day of the annual Chithirai festival, a significant religious celebration in the region.

Following a journey that began on Thursday morning from Tallakulam, the deity, mounted on a flower-laden palanquin, made his way back to Azhagarkoil, stopping at various mandagapadis along the route. A large crowd had gathered at Tallakulam to catch a glimpse of the deity as the procession commenced.

The journey included an overnight stay at Appan Tirupathi, where thousands more devotees from across the region had gathered to partake in special pujas, rituals, and cultural performances held in honor of Lord Kallazhagar. The venue was transformed into a vibrant and festive spectacle.

The deity finally reached Azhagarkoil at approximately 10:20 a.m. today, greeted by the resounding chants of devotees. They welcomed Lord Kallazhagar home by showering him with flowers as he entered the temple premises. Prasadam (blessed food) was distributed among the assembled masses. As a symbolic act to ward off evil, pumpkins were smashed at the entrance near the Pathinettam Padi Karuppanasamy Temple.

The Chithirai festival is set to conclude on Saturday with the ‘Utsava Santhi’ ritual, performed to offer peace and serenity to the deity.

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