Kanchipuram is not officially known as the 'City of Festivals'. But,
it actually is. The Spring and Summer months, starting with March are filled
with functions and processions in all the temples. The spirit of celebration
lives year long in the city. On any given week, you will find at least
one function or procession in the city.
Access the 2000 Events Calendar
The most important events in the city are the :
 Procession
of the Varadharaja Perumal Chariot
It attracts several thousand people from various neighboring cities
and villages. The chariot, only the third largest in the world, is towed
by a few hundred people amidst fireworks and enchanting drum beats. The
chariot starts from its base early in the morning, goes around the city,
and returns in the evening. It is quite a spectacle.
63 Naayanmaar Urchavam
Deities of the 63 Naayanmaars (Saints of the Saivite sect of Hinduism)
are honored and taken in procession around the city. The days surrounding
this urchavam (festival) are filled with processions of Sri Ekambaranathar
being taken in procession in each of his various Vaahanam's (Vehicles)
on the streets of the city. This tradition of a several hundred years is
what makes the city divine even in the modern era. The processions, as
usual, are filled with great music, fireworks, and Vedic chants by priests
of the temple.
 Varadharaja
Perumal Temple Garuda Sevai
The Garuda Vaahana sevai is the best Vaishnavite festival in the city,
in addition to the Chariot. This takes place in the same way as the chariot
procession.
Varadharaja Perumal Temple Nadapaavi Urchavam
People from all villages in the region gather
in the sands of the Paalaar river banks. This festival is more like a social
gathering. Varadharaja Perumal is taken in procession to the banks of the
Paalaar river on the day of Chitra Pournami (Full moon day on the Tamil
month of "Chittirai"). Families picnic on the shores of the river on the
day. |
