Kumbabishekam at Sri Meenakshi-Sundareswarar temple(2009)

My hometown witnessed one of the colorful moments in this period.
Its the city of skyscrapers, lotus city called Madurai
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meenakshi_Temple).

Lakhs of devotees from various parts of the country witnessed the 'Astabandhana Maha Samprokshanam' and 'Kumbabishekam' of the famed Sri Meenakshi-Sundareswarar temple, one of the ancient and important Saivite temples here at Madurai on 8th April 2009.
Amid chanting of vedic hymns from the holy scriptures by more than 400 'Sivachariyars' (Saivite priests), sacred waters brought from various holy rivers in 180 Gundams (pots) across the country were poured on all the magnificent 'Gopurams'(temple towers ) at 0915 hrs.

At 0930 hrs, the Kumbabishekam (consecration) was performed to the 'Thanga Vimana'(golden tower) of Meenakshi Amman temple and 15 minutes later, the consecration was held on Sri Sundareswarar temple tower.

The ancient temple was dedicated to ''Lord Shiva'' (in the form of Sri Sundareswarar) and his consort, Goddess Parvathi (in the form of Sri Meenakshi).

The temple complex housing 12 magnificent Gopurams, was renovated at a cost of Rs 12 crore recently.

Special poojas and other rituals were performed to the presiding deities Lord Sundareswarar and his consort Goddess Meenakshi on the occasion.

More than 6,000 personnel from various units of the state police were deployed for bandobust duty.

Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation operated special buses from various destinations in southern districts to Madurai, for the benefit of the devotees.

The district administration in coordination with various departments like health and police made elaborate arrangements for Kumbabishekam.

I am experiencing all these moments through online and kicking my imagination of being present there at that time with all festiv-sounds and spiritual sensations within. I miss you my Madurai !!