Madurai Meenakshi Temple in Amman issues safety alert ahead of Deepavali

The Meenakshi Amman temple administration in Madurai has issued safety guidelines for Deepavali, urging the public to avoid setting off fireworks and not bring hazardous materials near the temple. The advice is in line with heightened precautions due to the ongoing Kumbabishekam, a consecration ceremony held once every 12 years, and extensive restoration work, including painting of the temple’s iconic towers.

According to ANI, “This precautionary measure is related to the ongoing temple consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam), an important event that takes place once in 12 years, and extensive renovation work, including painting of the iconic towers. To protect the temple and ensure public safety, we therefore appeal to devotees and residents of the surrounding areas to cooperate by avoiding firecrackers and inflammable materials near the temple during Deepavali, maintaining a safe and sacred environment.”

Tamil Nadu | The administration of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple in Amman has issued a safety advisory ahead of Deepavali celebrations, asking the public to refrain from launching fireworks and hazardous materials near the temple. This precautionary measure is due to… pic.twitter.com/TLQFJoFfif

— ANI (@ANI) October 31, 2024

Temple officials urged worshipers and residents of nearby areas to respect the guidelines by refraining from the use of firecrackers and flammable items around the temple during Deepavali, helping to maintain a safe and reverent atmosphere.

During other festive gatherings, devotees flock to Manika Vinayagar Temple in Teppakulam, Trichy and Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple in Kanchipuram to celebrate Diwali.

Meanwhile, union minister L Murugan celebrated Diwali by bursting firecrackers in Chennai. Speaking to ANI, L Murugan said, “Today we are celebrating Diwali across the country. This Diwali is special as it is for everyone’s aspirations, everyone’s dreams fulfilled by the government… Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the initiative and Ram Mandir is being built after Ram temple the nation’s dedication, this is the first Diwali. That’s why I told you that this Diwali is special for each and every one.