Festivals and special events celebrated in Rameswaram

 Rameswaram, a sacred destination for Hindus, is home to temples like Ramanathaswamy, Nambu Nayagiamma, and Kodandaramaswamy. The unique festivals of these temples are a must-experience for visitors.

•  Thirukalyanam at Ramanathaswamy Temple

The Aadi Thirukalyana festival at Ramanathaswamy Temple, held between July and August, celebrates the divine marriage of Lord Ramanthaswamy and Goddess Parvathavardhini Ammal. Lasting 17 days, the festival features vibrant processions and cultural events, drawing devotees from around the world. If visiting Rameswaram during this time, be sure to witness the grand celebrations.

•  Aarudra Dharsanam

Aarudra Dharsanam, celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December to January), honors Lord Shiva in his Nataraja form. The festival coincides with the full moon and the Aarudra star,   marking the longest night of the year. It celebrates Shiva's cosmic dance and attracts millions of devotees to the Rameswaram Temple, where Lord Shiva’s idols are adorned with garlands and silk clothes.

•  Ramalinga Pratishta

Ramalinga Prathista Day celebrates the moment when Lord Rama created a sand linga to offer prayers to Lord Shiva after killing Ravana. Hanuman, who was sent to bring a linga from Mount Kailash, hadn’t returned in time, so Rama installed the sand linga and asked his devotees to worship it. Today, devotees gather for a procession, where the idol of Lord Ramanathaswamy is carried around the temple to mark this event.

•  Mahashivaratri

The Mahashivaratri Festival in Rameswaram is deeply connected to Lord Rama's journey to Lanka, where he sought Lord Shiva's blessings before leaving and upon his return. Celebrated with grandeur, the festival lasts for 10 days, from Mahasashti Krishnapatcham to Mahakrishna Amavasai in the Maasi month. It culminates in a procession, with a silver chariot carrying the idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

•  Vasanthosatsavam

Vasanthotsavam is a vibrant spring festival celebrated at the Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram. It marks the arrival of the season of renewal and is observed with grand processions and rituals. The temple is beautifully decorated, and special prayers are offered to Lord Shiva. Devotees flock to the temple to partake in the festive celebrations, which include cultural performances and devotional songs