Devotees drawing ‘Ashtami Chapparam’ in Madurai on Sunday. | Photo Credit: G. MOORTHY Thousands of devotees gathered in the early hours of Sunday to witness the magnificent Ashtami Chapparam procession of Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple. As the clock struck 5.30 a.m., the air filled with chants as the massive chariot carrying Goddess Meenakshi Amman, Lord Sundareswarar and Piriyavidai began its journey. The procession went through Adi, Avani, Masi, and Veli streets. Ashtami Chapparam is celebrated in the Tamil month of Margazhi during the waning crescent stage of Ashtami. Beyond the traditions, the ritual carries a profound message that it is a prayer for universal wellness, ensuring that no soul on earth suffers from hunger. Published – January 11, 2026 09:29 pm IST Share this: Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Click to share on Threads (Opens in new window) Threads Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window) Telegram Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email More Click to print (Opens in new window) Print Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) Pocket Click to share on Mastodon (Opens in new window) Mastodon Click to share on Nextdoor (Opens in new window) Nextdoor Click to share on Bluesky (Opens in new window) Bluesky Like this:Like Loading... Post navigation Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil expresses concern at attacks on churches and places of worship during Christmas season Congress distances itself from Mamkootathil