Thiruvananthapuram, March 3 (NationPress) witnessed a remarkable display of faith as millions of women congregated for the annual Pongala festival at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, transforming Kerala’s capital into a vibrant tapestry of glowing hearths.

From the temple grounds, temporary brick stoves extended for more than 10 kilometers, filling the streets and alleyways as the city became a colossal yagya shala.

Devotees traveled from various parts of Kerala and beyond throughout the night, coming together in unison to chant prayers to Attukal Amma.

The ceremonial activities commenced at 9:15 a.m. with a purification ritual, followed by the significant “Aduppu Vettu” at 9:45 a.m., during which the sacred fire was drawn from the sanctum and shared across the stoves.

As the day progressed, smoke wafted into the air as women prepared rice, jaggery, and coconut in traditional earthen pots, all while engaged in synchronized prayers.

This temple is dedicated to Attukal Bhagavathi, who is considered an incarnation of Kannaki, the central figure of the Tamil epic Silappathikaram.

According to legend, after her journey for justice in Madurai, Kannaki came to Kerala and rested at Attukal, where local women began preparing Pongala in her honor—a tradition that has grown into one of the largest gatherings of female devotees worldwide.

This year, the festival holds a unique civic significance.

For the first time, a city corporation governed by the BJP managed the event’s logistics.

The Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation, under the leadership of Mayor V.V. Rajesh, facilitated the arrangements.

Rajesh assured that all preparations were thorough and the event was unfolding seamlessly.

“Had it not been for the crisis in the Middle East, we likely would have seen an even larger turnout, as several flights were canceled. After the event concludes around 3 p.m., a record 3,500 cleaning personnel will commence a city-wide cleanup,” he stated.

Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje also participated in the Attukal Pongala festivities, sharing her experience on her X handle, where she expressed, "Salutations to Attukal Amma, and Pongala wishes to everyone!"

The Pongala offering is scheduled for 2:15 p.m., conducted under the watchful eyes of hundreds of priests.

The festival coincided with a lunar eclipse, resulting in a brief suspension of darshan during the afternoon.

Evening rituals and the procession of the Goddess will keep the fervor alive well into the night.

Notably, this festival transcends religious divides, inviting participation from Christian women and international tourists, showcasing Kerala’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.