Pallivetta (an item in a Temple Festival)

Pallivetta is a significant and sacred ritual performed on the ninth day of the temple festival. On this auspicious day, the Thidambu (the ceremonial idol of the Goddess) is placed on a caparisoned elephant and taken in a solemn procession from the Aalthara Temple to Nagavara, a sacred location situated about 2.5 kilometres east of the main temple. This ritual symbolically represents the Goddess’s divine journey and protection of the surrounding regions.

In the evening, after the completion of the temple rituals, the elephant carrying the Thidambu, along with the Pallikkuruppu, proceeds silently towards the sacred Palliyaal of the Devi. Devotees from the surrounding four Karas (regions) join the procession, maintaining deep reverence and discipline. Upon reaching the Palliyaal, the traditional Pallivetta rites are performed in accordance with ancient customs. Following this sacred ceremony, the devotees of Nagavara offer a royal welcome to the Goddess, accompanied by a grand and spectacular fireworks display. The Thidambu is then taken back to the main temple in a majestic procession.

Upon reaching the temple, the Thidambu is respectfully laid on a sacred silk bed inside the Sree Kovil. The Goddess is then allowed to rest in a ritual known as Palliyurakkam, symbolizing divine repose. As this final rite concludes, the entire temple premises observes profound silence, marking the completion of the day’s sacred observances and immersing devotees in a deep sense of spiritual calm.