Madurai, Tamil Nadu | June 12, 2025: In a breathtaking display of devotion and tradition, more than 7,000 devotees participated in the fire-walking ritual during the Vaikasi festival celebrations at the historic Jenakai Mariamman Temple in Sholavandan, Madurai district.
The rituals began on Wednesday evening, led by temple priest Shanmugavel, who commenced the ceremonial Agni Karagam procession from the Vaigai River. Accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional drums (pambai), he conducted special prayers by the riverbank before carrying the sacred fire pot through North Car Street and Market Road to the Mandaikal ground, the designated site for the fire-walking ceremony.
Earlier, the idol of Goddess Mariamman had been ceremoniously taken from the temple via Govindammal Street to the fire pit area, where the Mandagapadi (a devotional tribute to devotees offering services) was performed in front of the main stage.
The highlight of the evening was the awe-inspiring sight of thousands of devotees, many bearing symbolic piercings and carrying Agni Chattis (sacred fire pots), walking barefoot across the glowing embers to fulfill their vows. Notably, a devotee named Manikandan drew applause and reverence after he crossed the fire pit carrying 21 Agni Chattis.
The event was graced by several dignitaries and community leaders including:
- S.S.K. Jayaraman, Chairman, Sholavandan Town Panchayat
- M. Balpandi, Chairman, Vadipatti
- Ilamathi, Temple Administrative Officer
- Manimuthaiya, Vice President, BJP State Farmers’ Wing
- Valli Mayil, School Administrator
- Dr. Maruthupandian, DMK 8th Ward Councilor and Businessman
- Sathya Prakash, 9th Ward Councilor and Advocate
- Sivakumar, President of Sangankottai Village and Advocate, Madras High Court
Temple staff including Boopathi, Kavitha, Perumal, and Vasanth were instrumental in overseeing the rituals. Villagers from Sangankottai played a key role in organizing and maintaining the fire pit area.
To ensure safety and smooth proceedings, a comprehensive security arrangement was put in place, involving more than 200 personnel including DSP Anandaraj, Inspector Anandakumar, Fire Officer Nagarajan, along with fire and rescue teams and local police.
After the completion of the fire-walking ritual, the idol of Goddess Mariamman was taken in a grand procession through Bus Stand Road, Municipality Office, Market Road, Muthukumar Jewellery, and Periya Kadai Street, and returned to the temple. Devotees lined the procession route, offering silk sarees and prayers to the goddess.
The day concluded with a cultural evening organized by the Marudupandiyar Royal Forum near the Mandaikal ground, celebrating local heritage, music, and devotion.
Our Citizen Reporter – Madurai
Mr. Ravi
