CHENNAI: The 18-day festival of Chitra began on Saturday morning with flag hoisting at the Brihadeeswarar Temple of Thanjavur, also known as 'Thanjai Periya Kovil' (Thanjavur Big Temple).

On this occasion, Sri Chandrasekhar Swami and Panchamurthy Swami idols were set up near the flagpole with special decorations, and special abhishekams (poojais) were performed.

The Chithirai Therottam, the main event of the festival, will be held on April 20.