Chitirai Pournami is known for grand celebrations. But two special temples in India, carries a deeper meaning. One is about karma, and another is justice. Here is why they stand apart.
As Chithirai Pournami approaches on 1st May, devotees will prepare for prayers, and temple visits. The full mood day in the Tamil month of Chithirai is believed to be a time to reflect on a persons actions, and seek forgiveness. While many people will celebrate it in their hometowns, some will want to travel to places that has a grand celebration. One of the two places is Chitragupta Swamy Temple and the Mangaladevi Kannagi Temple.
Chitragupta Swamy Temple
This temple in Kanchipuram,holds a rare and meaningful history, the Chitragupta Swamy Temple. Its one of the temples around the world just for Chitragupta, who is know as chief accountant of Yama (the God of Death).
Chitragupta was created by Lord Brahma, through the Sun God, and is said to be the younger brother of Yama. His role is to record every human’s good and bad deeds and decide their fate after death.
Whichever temple, the deity will be seen seated, holding a pen in one hand, and pal leaf in another.
The temple is believed to date to the Chola period, making it over thousand years old. It is also said Chitragupta is connected to one of the Navagrahas (Kethu). Devotees pray here to reduce negativity.
On Chitra Pournami, this temple is important. Devotees believe Chitragupta reviews human deeds. Many people visit to pray, and seek forgiveness.
Mangaladevi Kannagi Temple
Different from Kanchipuram temple, Mangaladevi Kannagi Temple is located in Western Ghats along Tamil Nadu and Kerala border. The temple is 1,337 metres above sea level, inside Periyar Tiger Reserve. The surroundings are forest and hills.
This ancient temple is said to be 2,000 years old and is linked to the story of Kannagi (from Tamil epic Silapathikaram). Kannagi is always remembered as a symbol of truth and justice. A woman who stood against injustice and proved her husband’s innocence.
What makes this especially is that the temple only opens once a year, which is Chithirai Pournami.
On this day, around 25,000 devotees will be at the temple. Visitors will travel by special taxis and trek through forest roads, as private vehicles are not allowed.
The celebration will begin early in the morning with special poojas and rituals continuing from 6AM to 4PM. The idol of Kannagi is decorated with santhanam (sandalwood) and turmeric (manjal) paste, and priest from Tamil Nadu and Kerala will perform prayers together.
The journey becomes part of the devotion. As its surrounded by nature, and experience feels spiritual. It is not just a spiritual visit, but a once a year travel experience.
Two Temples, Two Experiences
Both temples celebrate on the same full mood, but the experience is different. Chithirai Pournami is not just about rituals and prayers but the meaning too. Whether is in Chitragupta Swamy Temple or trekking through the hills to Mangaladevi Kannagi Temple, the experience stays with you.
This 1st May, for those planning to travel, these two temples should be in your list.
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