The Aurbathimoovar Festival Photo

Photographer’s Note

The Kapaleeshwarar Temple, rebuilt in its present form in the 16th century, is one of the most important landmarks of Chennai. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and showcases beautiful architecture. Some of the inscriptions of the temple date back to 1250 AD. The temple is popular for the bronze idols of 63 Nayanmars (Shaivaite saints) established in the courtyard.

During the Aurbathimoovar Festival, the 63 saints of Lord Shiva are honored for leading ideal lives of penance and devotion by carrying the idols in a colourful procession around the town. Thousands of devotees travel to Chennai to witness and be a part of the procession. Offerings of flowers and fruits are made to the deities. Streets and houses of devotees are decorated with kolams (form of sand painting using rice powder). Celebrations also include folk music and folk dances. The famous traditional 'thoippavai' puppet show is performed during the festival.

A panoramic view of the procession.

phwall has marked this note useful

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phwall (5410) 2009-04-09 17:45

My dear Sridhar,
A good look at this wonderful spectacle. The crowds of people there are amazing.
Interesting to see this traditional spectacle with the different colours and ornate floats and there in the foreground is a man sending a text on his mobile phone. Ha, the world moves on.
Good shot, colours, sharps, POV and composition all excellent. Thank you for the note too, well written and informative.
Cheers
Peter