Chittirai Thiruvizha Festival 2026
Date: 19 April 2026 - 30 April 2026
Full Date
19 April 2026 6:00 AM – 30 April 2026 9:00 PM
Muhurat Timings in India
Kodiyetram (Flag Hoisting)
Flag hoisting ceremony marking the festival's official commencement.
19 April 2026 6:00 AM – 19 April 2026 7:00 AM
Thirukalyanam Ceremony
Reenactment of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar's divine wedding.
25 April 2026 10:00 AM – 25 April 2026 12:00 PM
Kallazhagar River Visit
Final procession where Lord Kallazhagar visits Vaigai river as part of festival rituals.
30 April 2026 6:00 AM – 30 April 2026 9:00 AM
Introduction
Chittirai Thiruvizha is the spectacular annual festival celebrated at Madurai's Meenakshi Temple, commemorating the divine marriage of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. The festival draws millions of devotees and includes processions, music, dance, and sacred rituals.
Other Names
Madurai Chithirai Festival, Meenakshi Thirukalyanam
Pooja Vidhi
- Begin with Kodiyetram flag hoisting ceremony.
- Organize daily processions with decorated idols on various vahanas.
- Perform the Thirukalyanam ceremony reenacting the divine marriage.
- Conduct cultural programs featuring traditional Tamil arts.
- Lead special prayers and pujas invoking divine blessings.
- Conclude with Lord Kallazhagar’s river visit procession.
Rituals
- Flag hoisting ceremony (Kodiyetram) marks the festival's start.
- Processions featuring Lord Sundareswarar and Goddess Meenakshi on elaborately decorated vahanas.
- Reenactment of the divine wedding (Thirukalyanam) of the deities.
- Cultural performances including traditional music, dance, and folk arts.
- Devotees partake in prayers and religious observances throughout the festival.
- The final procession involves Lord Kallazhagar’s symbolic visit to the Vaigai river.
Regional Highlights
- Chittirai Thiruvizha is one of the largest temple festivals in Tamil Nadu.
- It brings together Shaivite and Vaishnavite communities in celebration.
- Known for its vibrant processions, cultural performances, and religious fervor.
History
Dating back several centuries, the festival symbolizes unity between the Shaivite and Vaishnavite sects. It celebrates mythological stories and cultural traditions significant to Tamil heritage.
Additional Information
- The festival draws millions of devotees from across India and abroad.
- It showcases Tamil cultural heritage and divine mythology.
- Organized with community participation and administrative support.