10 Things to Expect at Murugar Manadu in Madurai
Madurai is a holy city as you have experienced in case you visited the city. But when you are fortunate enough to be in Madurai at Murugar Manadu, then you are in for some divine stuff. It is neither a religious convention nor a supernatural occasion; it is a festival of the glory of Lord Murugan and the culture of Tamil coupled with the emotional deviation. If you are a frequent bird or simply wondering there are 10 things that one can get in the Murugar Manadu in Madurai.
1. A Grand Spiritual Atmosphere
The difference will be felt as soon as you step in the venue. The air is filled with the feeling of calmness, enthusiasm, and commitment. The beat of the Muruga Muruga chants, the aroma of the sandal and flower and the view of saffron flags everywhere- it is something that has a heart touching effect! The mood will affect you even when you are not a religious person.
I had my first encounter at the Manadu. An old lady smiled at me and offered to me the vibhuti (sacred ash) with such benevolence, as though I was a grand child of hers. That is what the highlights of this event are, everyone is family.
2. Inspiration to Discourses and Speechs
Spiritual books, swamijis and even Tamil speakers can be found to give lovely lectures about Lord Murugan, Tamil culture and the strength of bhakti (devotion). These are speeches full of wisdom of old books, examples of life and motivational words.
You may not be able to know all the words, but you will get the vibe. Most of the speeches are in Tamil but the feelings go across the language.
3. Bhajans and Devotional music
And there will be a treat to you, in case you love Tamil devotional music. The sounds of the traditional instruments, such as nadaswaram and thavil fill the air. Religious songs such as Kanda Sashti Kavasam, Thiruppugazh and other Murugan songs are sung so emotionally that you will have goose bumps.
At some point, you can also encounter local singers or children who sing devotional dances. It is the mixture of culture and spirituality which can hardly be forgotten.
4. Processions carrying Idols of Murugan
Colourful processions form one of the main attractions of Murugar Manadu. Chariots which are decorated, carry the idols of Lord Murugan around the place or the surrounding region. The believers sing and dance, and even carry kavadi as the form of offering on the bare feet.
The atmosphere of these processions is something different, it is loud and colorful and spiritual at that.
5. Free Annadhanam (Food Offering)
Unfree food indeed; free to all! There is no one qualified or disqualified to have a hot, simple, and delicious meal- often that of pongal, rice, sambar or sweet kesari no matter where he or she is. This annadhanam does not only provide food but it is also a kind of service (seva), given by volunteers out of love.
My last time, I also sat with a school boy and an old man in the same row and they also ate banana leaves together. No discrimination and just unity. So that is what makes the Manadu beautiful.
6. Spiritual Seva and Volunteers
You will be surprised to find how young college kids, old people, working professionals and others serve the food, control crowd, hand over vibhuti packets etc. Most of them do it as a seva a selfless act of worship.
In case you are willing to do this, simply go to the volunteer counter. Simple activity as carrying water pots may be satisfying.
7. Traditional Attire and Cultural Pride
At Murugar Manadu, you would experience Tamil culture at its best. Men wear white dhotis and women come in colourful sarees and children use to wear traditional pavadai and shirt. There is a feeling of Tamil identity and pride and it seems to be there in the way one speaks, walks and worships.
There is no need to be concerned even in case you are wearing something modern. It is not their judgement but their smile.
8. Worshipping of Murugan and Individual Times with Him
Your personal moment can be found even in the crowd. Large numbers of the people, light lamps or break coconuts or sit silently to pray. You will see stalls selling flowers, camphor, archanai tickets as well as pictures of lord Muruga.
May even closing eyes towards the main idol and repeating with a chant, of Om Saravana Bhava, create peace. Give it a once and you will know why people give long routes just to have that one moment.
9. Books stalls, spiritual and local craft stalls
When not in the hall, one can also see stalls, outside the hall, selling spiritual books, statues of Murugan, rudraksha mala, framed photographs, and even handicraft made in the villages of Tamil Nadu. It is a good idea to invest in the local community of crafters and bring something valuable back.
Don not also forget to buy a Thiruppugazh book or Vel pendant- they make souvenirs.
10. A Feeling That Stays Long After You Leave
You will feel certain spiritual peaceful situation even after the event is finished. Perhaps, it is because of the strength of mass devotion; perhaps it is thanks to the blessedness of Murugan, or perhaps it is due to the good vibes. One thing is certain you will go away with full heart.
And who knows but that you and I Would have to do a deal first? You may be already day-dreaming about the Murugar Manadu next year.
Final Thoughts
More than a religious gathering, Murugar Manadu is held in Madurai. It is not only a religious affair but also a cultural fest and the fraternity in diversity. No matter whether you would go in solitude or with relatives, it is the experience that is worth seeing at least once in your lifetime.
Then in case you are traveling to Madurai or even need to connect with your roots, it is best that you do make Murugar Manadu a part of your schedule.
Have You Liked This Article?
And, in case you find this guide reasonable, you can share it with friends and relatives through WhatsApp, Facebook, or Instagram. We will never know with which audience we are dealing when it comes to such information!
Do not also forget to subscribe to our blog and hear more about spiritual festivals, the culture of Tamils, and traveling to the South India regions.
Let Lord Muruga bring conviction, understanding and serenity to you. Thou Om Saravana Hava!
Comments
Post a Comment