Nellaiappar Temple Gears Up for the 518th Aani Therottam Festival 2025

Tirunelveli is brimming with spiritual energy and cultural excitement as preparations for the much-anticipated Nellaiappar Temple Aani Therottam (car festival) are well underway. Set for July 8, 2025, the festival marks the highlight of the Aani Perun Thiruvizha, a historic Tamil tradition celebrated with unmatched grandeur and devotion.

This year marks the 518th edition of this sacred festival, which began with the ceremonial Kodi Yetram (flag hoisting) on June 30, 2025. Thousands of devotees are expected to take part in the holy event, pulling the majestic temple chariots through the car streets around the temple.

Key Preparations for Aani Therottam 2025:

🛣️ Road Inspection & Repairs

Tirunelveli Corporation has taken proactive measures to inspect and repair the four car streets around the temple. The roads are being re-laid to ensure a smooth and safe procession of the deities' chariots.

🚓 Crowd Control & Safety Surveillance

To manage the massive influx of devotees, a strong police presence is being planned, along with traffic diversions and the installation of CCTV cameras for real-time monitoring.

⚡ Underground Cabling for Safety

All power lines along the procession route have been safely relocated underground to prevent power outages and ensure safety during the event.

🧹 Sanitation and Cleanliness

Sanitary workers will be deployed to maintain hygiene by sprinkling bleaching powder and ensuring timely garbage collection along the streets.

💧 Basic Amenities for Devotees

Drinking water stations and first aid centers are being arranged across the area to cater to the needs of the devotees. Ambulance facilities and health posts are also being set up for emergency medical support.

🚌 Special Bus Services

The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) will operate special buses to help manage the crowd efficiently and provide convenient transportation for visitors.

Temple Car Preparations

The majestic Nellaiappar Temple chariots, including the massive Nellaiappar car (the third largest in Tamil Nadu), are undergoing extensive cleaning and decoration. These chariots will soon be ready to roll, carrying the deities in a divine procession filled with chants, music, and vibrant cultural performances.

Cultural and Spiritual Festivities

Apart from the chariot pulling, the festival will also feature religious discourses, traditional music, and folk performances, making it a complete spiritual and cultural experience. In honor of the occasion, a local holiday has been declared on July 8, 2025.

Conclusion

The Aani Therottam Festival at Nellaiappar Temple is not just a religious event but a celebration of Tamil heritage and devotion. With meticulous planning and massive participation expected, this year's festival promises to be one of the grandest ever seen in Tirunelveli.

Grand Preparations Begin for Nellaiappar Temple Aani Therottam 2025 in Tirunelveli