A large number of devotees from various parts of the country today witnessed the grand car procession as part of the festival at Shrine Basillca today.
Prior to the car festival, a holy flag was hoisted. Bishop of Thanjavur Rev Dr M.Devadass Ambrose conducted special prayers. After the prayers, seven illuminated cars in various sizes were taken in procession.
The special aspect of the car procession was that the first 'pilot' car of the five illuminated cars, had been reserved exclusively for the women devotees. Only women were allowed to carry the first car in procession and it was followed by the other cars.
Clad in a pure silk saree the Lady of Good Health was taken in the biggest of the cars. Devotees sang divine songs during the procession.
The car festival marks the commencement of the birthday celebrations of the Lady of Good Health. Septembr 8 is celebrated as the birthday of the Lady of Good Health).
The main event of the 11-day annual festival will be held tomorrow. Special prayers will be conducted in several Indian languages from 6 a.M and the holy flag will be lowered in the evening marking the end of the annul festival. Thousands of pilgrims have arrived at the town covering hundreds of kilometers on foot.
Nagapattinam district administration has made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the festival.
