Devotees throng Samayapuram temple car festival

Trichy: The annual Chithirai car festival at the Samayapuram Mariamman temple witnessed a huge turnout on Tuesday, with so many devotees pulling the chariot through the streets amid chants of "Om Shakti, Para Shakti."The festival, which began with flag-hoisting on April 5, culminated in the grand chariot procession. The processional deity was placed on the chariot around 10.40am and devotees began pulling it by 11.20am. The chariot moved along Sannathi Street and surrounding areas before returning to the temple. Devotees from across Tamil Nadu undertook padayatras and fulfilled vows by offering kavadi, milk pots, and observing fasting. Elaborate security arrangements were put in place, with more than 1,200 police personnel deployed. Fire and rescue teams were stationed at key areas. Water stalls and annadanam were organised by volunteers, while civic authorities provided basic amenities. Officials said the festival was conducted smoothly.