Deepam fest’s last day: Heavy rush at T’malai temple

The 10-day long Karthigai Deepam that began on November 14 ended on November 23, with the lighting of the Barani deepam and Maha deepam at 4 am and 6 pm respectively.

The deepam for the past 10 days was lit daily at 6 pm and put out at 6 am the next day.

With Monday, December 3, being the last day of lighting the sacred flame atop the hill for the current year, the temple witnessed an increase in the number of devotees. The temple courts were packed with devotees trying to get a glimpse of the lord.

On Monday night, the workers would stay near the flame till it is extinguished on Tuesday at 6 am.

Following this, the workers would lower the cauldron, official sources revealed.