Tiruchirappalli, March 31 -- A grand temple chariot festival (Therottam) of the Uyyakondan Thirumalai Ujjivanathar Temple, the 67th among the revered Thevara Paadal Petra Sthalams, was held with great devotion and enthusiasm, as large numbers of devotees gathered to pull the chariot amid the sounds of traditional Kailaya instruments.

The temple is historically significant as the place where Lord Shiva is believed to have restored life to Markandeya and is revered as a sacred site where the deity blesses devotees with salvation. It is one of the 274 Paadal Petra Sthalams praised in Thevaram hymns by saints Appar, Sundarar, and Thirugnanasambandar.

The Brahmotsavam festival at the temple commenced on March 23 with the ceremonial flag hois...