The last two days have been kind – I managed to go to the Kapaliswarar Temple on both days in the morning and witness the procession. I wish I could do so in the evening as well but then what with the traffic restrictions in place owing to CMRL work and the yawning chasms I have not ventured out. There have been compensations – for the first time I saw the Surya Prabhai procession and though the decorations are not as elaborate as on later days, it is nevertheless a grand sight. Kapaaliyin Bavani is captivating, no matter what.
Yesterday, March 17 was the second day of the temple festival and I led a heritage walk in the morning. I must thank Vincent DeSouza for prodding me into action. At the end of it, we were just in time to see the Panchamurti-s emerging from the temple. What with the band playing and the midukku gait of the bearers carrying Kapali, it was thrilling to just be there. Here are some pics –
This year I am glad that someone in charge has decreed that the Piriyavidai needs some visibility. They usually keep her hidden behind garlands but this year they have taken efforts to open her up and what is more, given her a lovely jatai as well.
She was Her gracious self as always. New anklets too I notice.
In short a good time was had by all of us.