Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple presents a combination of beautifully arranged fairy lights, ‘kacheris’ and the faint scent of camphor and ash.
Visitors are in for a treat at the kolu, which has on display some of the divine sports of Lord Siva.
The collection has about 2,000 dolls of different deities, including Muruga, Ganesa, Siva and Tadatagai (Goddess Meenakshi), authorities said.
The Tirukkalyanam of Lord Sundareswarar with Goddess Meenakshi is the cynosure of all eyes.
N. Natarajan, Executive Officer, said that a small fountain was specifically designed to remind visitors about the importance of the Vaigai.
Annet and Joshua, tourists, who had come to the city from Luxembourg, said that they were excited to see a large collection of dolls.
They were intrigued by the vahanas (vehicles) of the deities.
This display evoked a festive atmosphere and it was good, said Annet.
The intricate kolam patterns on the floor are the result of a week’s work by 50 artisans from different parts of the city.
About 80 students from Pragathi Vidya Niketan School of Gadwal region, Telangana, tried replicating the designs in their notebooks as they were here on a study tour.
The temple has arranged several music and Bharatanatyam performances throughout the day. N.S. Sundararaman, a Tamil scholar and an ardent lover of Carnatic music, said that this year’s ‘kacheris’ were special.