Dussehra festival: Lakhs of devotes witnessed Surasamkaram

Kulasekarapattanam, an ancient port town of Tamil Nadu, is known for its famous ‘Sakthi’ temple. After Kolkata and Mysore, Kulasakarapattanam Mutharamman temple is the place where Dussehra is celebrated in grand fervour and gaiety.

Dussehra is commenced in Kulasekarapattanam on the 10th October with the hoisting of the ceremonious flag. The temple and festival attract devotes from across Tamil Nadu. Devotees generally observe a 40-days rigorous fasting and take part in the celebration.

In Kulasekarapattanam, Surasamharam is celebrated during the 10th day of Navarathri. Thousands of devotees throng the coastal area of Kulasekarapattanam early in the morning.

At midnight, followed by special pujas, Goddess Mutharamman (Warrior Goddess) is taken in a procession in Simha Vahanam for the samharam (slaying) of four demons, including Mahishasuran.

It is said that about 15 lakh devotees would visit and offer prayers in the holy shrine during the 10-day-festival every year.