Chithirai Festival is actually a 10 day festival and this is one of the biggest celebrations in Madurai. It commemorates the wedding of Lord Sundareswarar and Goddess Meenakshi (Lord Vishnu’s sister).

Legend has it that Lord Vishnu came to Madurai, mounted on a golden horse, to witness the wedding. The festival recreates this event. This year it is being held from April 26 to May 7, at the Meenakshi Temple.