The ‘Theppa Thiruvizha’ festival has captivated audiences with its stunning display of floating lanterns, set against the backdrop of light showers. This grand celebration, held in honour of the powerful Hindu goddess Singamuga Kaliamman, is a time when celestial deities are believed to descend to earth to bless water bodies such as rivers and seas.
The festival is celebrated at the 118-year-old Sri Singamuga Kaliamman Temple, attracting thousands of Hindu devotees. The word “Theppa” in Tamil means “floating platform” or “a float,” and during this festival, the deity is placed on a beautifully decorated floating platform on the sea. This unique spectacle draws people from all over the world, who come to witness the event and seek the blessings of Singamuga Kaliamman.
The festival has its roots in the local fishing community, who initiated it to ensure the safe journeys of fishermen to the sea. Over the years, it has evolved into a grand celebration that transcends cultural boundaries and immerses participants in a rich cultural experience.
Devotees are urged to avoid using plastic materials during the festival to maintain environmental sustainability. Despite the light showers, the festival continues to shine bright with its mesmerizing display of floating lanterns, creating an enchanting atmosphere for all attendees.
