Azhwar who grants liberation by mere thought! Important Announcement for Devotees Going to Tiruvannamalai
Tiruvannamalai, one of the most renowned temples in the world, holds a special place in the hearts of millions of devotees. This sacred place is home to the deity Annamalaiyar, whose divine presence is believed to offer liberation through devotion and remembrance. Even without seeing the Lord in person, devotees believe that thinking of Him brings peace and divine bliss.
Karthigai Deepam Festival – Tiruvannamalai:
The Karthigai Deepam Festival is one of the most important events held annually at the Tiruvannamalai Temple. It is celebrated in the Tamil month of Karthigai, and this year, the Maha Deepam (grand light) will be lit on the top of the Annamalai hill. This is a time of great spiritual significance, as the lighting of the deepam is considered a moment of divine grace and a time when devotees gather in large numbers to participate in the festivities.
Important Announcement for Devotees Attending the Karthigai Deepam Festival:
To ensure that all devotees have a safe and smooth experience during the festival from December 12 to December 15, 2024, several guidelines have been issued:
- Traffic Arrangements and Restrictions: With the large number of devotees expected, arrangements have been made to accommodate them without traffic congestion. 25 temporary bus stands and 116 car parking spaces have been set up around the temple. Devotees are advised to use these facilities to avoid traffic jams and reach the temple and perform the circumambulation (Girivalam) comfortably.
- Prohibition of Fraudulent Activities: It is a crime to collect money from devotees by offering water, applying tilak, or giving blessings in deceptive ways. Special Quick Response Teams (QRT) have been deployed to monitor such fraudulent activities along the Girivalam paths. Offenders will be arrested immediately and face strict legal action.
- Prohibition of Lighting Camphor: Devotees are prohibited from lighting camphor anywhere along the Girivalam path or in front of the four gopurams of the temple.
- Animals on the Girivalam Path: Animal owners are not allowed to let their animals roam freely along the Girivalam path and obstruct the devotees. Devotees are also advised not to feed animals such as cows or goats.
- Prohibition of Unauthorized Annadhanam: Offering food (Annadhanam) without proper permission is strictly prohibited. Only authorized places can distribute food.
- Protection of Children and Elderly: Devotees are urged to ensure the safety of their children and elderly family members during the festival. Proper care should be taken to keep them safe in the crowded areas.
- Protection of Personal Belongings: Devotees are encouraged to keep their mobile phones, jewelry, and valuables secure. Never entrust your belongings to strangers, and report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police officer.
- Help Booths and Contact Numbers: Devotees can approach the “May I Help You Booth” or the Police Assistance Centers for help. These booths will operate 24 hours a day from December 12, 2024 (7:00 AM) to December 15, 2024 (6:00 PM).
- Avoid Water Bodies: Devotees are advised not to approach the water bodies near the Girivalam path to ensure their safety.
- Use of Temporary Toilets: Devotees must use the temporary toilets set up along the Girivalam path. This will help maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
- Conservation of Water: Water should be used sparingly and without waste, as there may be high demand during the festival.
- Footwear Guidelines: Devotees are instructed to leave their footwear at designated shops or safe areas and not on the temple steps or the Girivalam path.
- No Unauthorized Temporary Shops: Setting up temporary shops along the Girivalam path is prohibited. Any violations will lead to legal action.
- No Loud Noises from Shops: Sales of loudspeakers or any items that create high-pitched noise, such as beepers or loud advertisements, are prohibited.
- Cooking with Gas Cylinders: Cooking with gas cylinders in temporary shops along the Girivalam path is strictly prohibited. If violated, legal action will be taken, and cooking equipment will be seized.
- Entering Forest Areas and Climbing the Hill: Unauthorized entry into forest areas or attempts to climb the hill are considered illegal, and strict legal actions will be taken against such activities.
- Medical Assistance: If any health issues arise, devotees can seek medical assistance from the nearby medical camps or approach the nearest Police Assistance Center (May I Help You Booth).
These guidelines are intended to ensure that the festival is experienced peacefully, safely, and with full devotion. By adhering to the rules and following the instructions provided, devotees will be able to enjoy a smooth and spiritually enriching experience.
By following these rules, devotees can ensure a fulfilling and blessed experience during the Karthigai Deepam Festival in Tiruvannamalai.
