Fri Jan 02 16:00:26 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article:
Summary:
The Hindu reported on the inauguration and trial run of a newly built silver car at the Swami Nellaiyappar Ganthimathi Ambal Temple in Tirunelveli, India. The car replaces one destroyed by fire in 1991. Funding for the project came largely from public donations of silver and money, exceeding the original estimate of 425kg of silver needed.
News Article:
New Silver Chariot Rolls at Tirunelveli Temple After Decades-Long Effort
TIRUNELVELI, INDIA – January 2, 2026 – A gleaming new silver chariot made its debut at the Swami Nellaiyappar Ganthimathi Ambal Temple in Tirunelveli today, marking the culmination of a decades-long community effort. Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P.K. Sekarbabu and Assembly Speaker M. Appavu officially inaugurated the chariot’s trial run this afternoon.
The new chariot replaces the original, which was tragically destroyed in a fire in 1991. Following the incident, devotees resolved to construct a replacement, soliciting donations from the public and local businesses to make the project a reality.
According to a statement from the district administration, an estimated 425 kilograms of silver were needed. Through generous contributions, the temple ultimately collected 405.217 kg of silver directly from donors, and purchased an additional 24.5 kg with donated funds.
The accumulated 429.717 kilograms of silver were then melted, shaped into plates adorned with intricate designs, and mounted onto a wooden frame. The completed chariot now stands at an impressive 18 feet tall.
Tirunelveli Collector R. Sukumar and other local officials were also present at the inauguration, celebrating a significant milestone for the temple and the surrounding community.
First Piper 