Devotees flock to Attukal; Manacaud Sastha returns after procession; temple will open late tomorrow

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: On the fifth day of the Pongala festival (Sunday) at Attukal Bhagavathy temple, there was a steady stream of devotees to the temple. Devotees had arrived by midnight. There were also processions with lamps. There was also a rush to light lemon lamps.

The ceremonial procession from the Manakad Sastha temple was held yesterday. The procession of Manakad Sastha, who holds the status of a brother of Attukal Bhagavathy, reached the Attukal temple around 4 pm. At this time, the temple was closed. After paying homage in front of the temple, the Sastha returned through the back entrance. The procession also extended to other temples, such as Konchiravila. It is believed that Sastha is returning because he is upset about not seeing his sister since the temple is closed. On the night of Pongala, the elephant procession of Attukal Bhagavathy is being held at the Manakkad Dharmashasta temple. This is believed to appease the disaffection felt by the brother over not being able to see her.

The procession at the Manakkad temple was welcomed by the temple trust office bearers and devotees. Yesterday, during the Thottampattu, the portion sung described the part where Kovalan, having gone to sell the chilambu as per the goddess's wishes, was brought before the Pandya king by the goldsmith, who sought to conceal his own crime. Today, the song sings the part where the king kills Kovalan after accusing him of stealing the chilambu. As a sign of mourning over this incident, the opening of the temple tomorrow (Tuesday) will be delayed. The temple will open at 7 am. The timings of Nirmalayam, Abhishekam, and other pujas will also change.