Chithirai Festival, also known as Chithirai Thiruvizha or Chithirai Brahmotsavam, is the biggest festival in Madurai Meenakshi Temple. It is celebrated during Chithirai Masam in Tamil Calendar. In 2012, Chithirai Thiruvizha dates are – from April 24 to May 4. Meenakshi Pattabhishekam (coronation) would be performed on April 30.
The important event of the festival, Meenakshi Thirukalyanam (celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar) date is May 2. Thirukalyanam will be conducted on 10th day of the festival. The Car festival or Rathotsavam will be performed on May 3. The procession of the car festival begins at 6 am.
Important events in Madurai Chithirai Festival 2012
23 April 2012: Chithirai Thiruvizha Kodiyetram (Flag Hoisting) (Chaitra Utsavam starts with Dhwajarohanam)
26 April 2012: Thanga Pallakku
28 April 2012: Rishaba Vahanam
30 April 2012: Sri Meenakshi Pattabhishekam
1 May 2012: Sri Meenakshi Digvijayam
2 May 2012: Sri Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Thirukalyanam (Celestial Wedding), Yaanai Vahanam, Pushpa Pallakku
3 May 2012: Thiru Ther Therottam (Rathotsavam). Madurai car festival or chariot procession
All the events of Chithirai Festival live online telecast will be done during the festival through the official website of Madurai Meenakshi Temple.