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The Thiruvoodal festival was celebrated in Thiruvannamalai. The festival is about a lover`s tiff between the Lord and his consort Ambal. The Nayanmar Saint Sambandhar mediates between the couple. It is during this time that the poem Thirukkutraala Voodal was sung by the two, mocking each other.

On this day, Abhishekam is performed early and a procession starts from the temple. The Lord and Ambal bless Nandi and head to the Thitti Vasal of the temple. This is a small entrance on the east side of the temple, next to the Raja Gopuram. As the sun rises, the procession goes around the temple three times.

Hundreds of devotees line the streets for the Darshan. They offer money and clothing to the Gods. The procession also includes Thani Amman and Sambandhar. Nandi is elaborately decorated as the occasion falls on Pongal as well.

Here is a picture showcasing the special occasion of Margazhi month Pradhosham that fell to be on Ammavasai day. The idol and Nandi statues were decorated with flowers and the temple was seen teeming with devotees.

What is Pradhosham?

Pradhosham is a bimonthly occasion. It falls to be on the thirteenth day of every two weeks as per Hindu calendar. The occasion is so special for lord Shiva. During these days, the ideal timing for worshipping the lord will be 1.5 hours before and after the sunset. Devotees carry out fasting or vows during these three hours and these are called Pradhosha Vrata. A devotee wears Rudhraksha, Vibuthi and worships the lord by performing Abhisheka, saldalwood paste, Bilva leaves, food offerings (Neivedhyam), deepam, and so on.

Here are pictures of the Sivajyothi Dhyaana Aalayam or meditation hall. Here is a lingam seen in deep black shade and decorated with flowers and there are many lights lit up around the idol. Flowers in yellow, and red with leavesbeing the highlighters. The Nandi stature is decorated with Maala too.