Annual Koda Festival Begins at Bhagavathi Amman Temple in Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari

The annual 10-day Koda festival at Bhagavathi Amman temple in Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari began with the traditional Kodiyettu flag hoisting on February 28, attended by dignitaries including a Madras High Court judge and local officials. Key rituals include 'Valiyapadukka' on March 6, 'Valiya Theevatti' procession on March 8, and the festival's peak, the Koda, on March 10. The 89th Hindu Maha Sammelan is also underway. Over 800 police and marine personnel are deployed to manage devotees from Tamil Nadu and Kerala, with special inter-state bus services operating. The temple follows Kerala traditions and is managed by the Kanniyakumari Devaswom Board.