After two years of Covid restrictions, Tamil Nadu celebrates Lord Shiva’s festival with famous mango ritual

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<strong>Following two years of restriction due to the Covid pandemic waves, it was once again time for mangoes to rain on the streets of Karaikal in Tamil Nadu during the celebration of Karaikal Mangani Thiruvizha.</strong></p>
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While there was no let-up in the throwing of the mangoes, there were devotees in thousands to catch these fruits thrown from houses. People waited for hours to offer fruits to their god, Shri Pitchandavar who is carried in a temple car.</p>
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Devotees offer fruits for a number of reasons – it could be for a smooth wedding in the family or settling of dues or buying a house or getting a job or for the general welfare of the family and friends.</p>
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Celebrated during the months of June and July, the festival lasts for a month. Every day the idol of the five divine Gods is taken through the streets of Karaikal. On the main day, the huge idol of Lord Bikshatanar is taken out and that is when mangos are thrown from the roof. It is believed that eating the mango caught in the festival will bestow the person with Lord Shiva’s blessings.</p>
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People set up stalls to distribute free food and water along the streets.</p>