Theppa Thiruvizha, Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple- Madurai.

The Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple is one of the oldest and most important temples in India. The temple is located in the Madurai district of Tamil Nadu along the banks of the Vaigai River. The temple was built during the years of 1623 - 1655. The temple splendidly celebrates the "Theppa Thiruvizha" - Float festival - every year in the months of January and February.The presiding deities of this temple are Lord Sundareswarar and Goddess Meenakshi. It is believed that in this temple, Lord Shiva attained the avatar of Sundareshwarar and wed Goddess Parvathi (Meenakshi). The float festival takes place in the Thirumalai Nayak's Theppakulam tank, which was built in the year 1646. This 16-acre holy tank consists of a pedestal-mounted Lord Ganesh statue situated in the centre of the tank. A magnificent procession carrying decorated idols of the goddess Meenakshi and her consort is carried to the massive Mariamman Theppakulam on the full moon day. The deities are transported on golden palanquins, with the temple elephants serving as guards. The Lord and Goddess are stationed at the Theppakulam's banks till dusk, offering blessings to the devotees. The holy tank is illuminated with vibrant lanterns and adorned with flowers. Lakhs of devotees swarm around the sacred tank to see this magnificent procession.