Meenakshi Amman Temple holds historic consecration ceremony

The historic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai held its Maha Kumbabhishekam consecration ceremony on September 17, marking the first such event in 17 years. The ceremony followed extensive renovation work costing approximately Rs 25 crore, which included the reconstruction of the Veeravasantharayar Mandapam.

Thousands of devotees gathered to witness the rituals, which involved the consecration of 12 temple gopurams and two golden vimanas. Preparations included the use of five tonnes of flower garlands to decorate the towers and the collection of holy water from various sacred rivers, including the Ganga and Cauvery.

Due to the massive influx of worshippers, some devotees experienced delays and became stranded within the temple premises after the main sanctum entry was permitted later than expected. Tamil Nadu Minister C T R Nirmal Kumar clarified that the government's role was limited to overseeing public safety and amenities, denying allegations of interference in temple administration.