Manakkula Vinayagar Temple - Puducherry

• •(a) general
• •(b) on special days like festivals and utsavas

Opening & Closing Timings of Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

General Timings

• •Morning: 5:45 AM to 12:30 PM
• •Evening: 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM

These timings are consistent on regular days, allowing devotees ample time to visit and offer prayers.

Special Days and Festivals

• •On special days like festivals and utsavas, the timings might be extended to accommodate the influx of devotees and special rituals. However, specific extended timings are not regularly published and may vary based on the event and temple administration decisions.

Sources

• •Tour My India
• •Agate Travel
• •Digi Pondy

. What privilege does it grant? For eg quick darshan, special gate, longer view of deity, prasad, puja etc.Are there any entry restrictions for Foreigners? Spl fees? Declaration to be made? Etc.

Entry Fees and Privileges at Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

Entry Fees

• •General Entry: There is no entry fee for visiting the Manakula Vinayagar Temple. Devotees and visitors can enter the temple premises and offer prayers without any charge.

Privileges and Special Services

• •Quick Darshan: There are no specific details about a quick darshan facility. Generally, during peak times and festivals, there might be arrangements to manage the crowd, but a separate quick darshan ticket system is not commonly mentioned.
• •Special Gates and Longer View: The temple does not have widely publicized special gates or extended viewing times specifically for those paying additional fees.
• •Prasad and Puja: Prasad is typically given to devotees as a token of blessing. Special pujas and offerings can be performed by purchasing the respective tickets or by making donations. These services are managed by the temple administration and can be availed by contacting them directly.

Restrictions and Guidelines for Foreigners

• •Entry Restrictions: There are no specific entry restrictions for foreigners. All visitors, regardless of nationality, are welcome to visit the temple and participate in the rituals.
• •Special Fees or Declarations: There are no special fees or declarations required for foreigners. However, it is advisable to follow the temple etiquette, such as dressing modestly, removing shoes before entering the temple, and maintaining decorum within the sacred premises.

Address: Manakula Vinayagar Koil Street,

White Town, Puducherry - 605001, India.

How to Reach

By Air

• •Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Puducherry Airport (PNY), which is approximately 6 km from the temple.
• •Flights: Puducherry Airport has flights connecting to major cities like Bengaluru.
• •Alternative Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA), about 150 km away, is a major international airport with flights from numerous domestic and international destinations.
• •From the Airport: You can hire a taxi or take a bus from either airport to reach the temple.

By Train

• •Nearest Railway Station: Puducherry Railway Station, around 1.5 km from the temple.
• •Trains: Regular trains connect Puducherry with major cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and Mumbai.
• •From the Railway Station: You can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach the temple.

By Bus

• •Bus Stand: The nearest bus stand is the Pondicherry Bus Stand, approximately 2 km from the temple.
• •Bus Services: Frequent bus services are available from Chennai, Bengaluru, and other nearby cities.
• •Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses are available for reaching the temple from the bus stand.

By Taxi

• •Taxi Services: Taxi services are available from major cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and other parts of Tamil Nadu to Puducherry.
• •Booking: Taxis can be booked online or through local taxi operators.

By Road

• •Driving: Puducherry is well-connected by road. You can drive from nearby cities like Chennai (150 km), Bengaluru (310 km), and others.
• •Route from Chennai: The East Coast Road (ECR) is a popular and scenic route connecting Chennai and Puducherry.

By Ferry/Port

• •Sea Routes: Currently, there are no ferry services or ports specifically serving Puducherry for passenger transport.

• •.What are the rates associated with it? What is the advance booking procedure?

Special Poojas and Rituals

1. 1Ganapathi Homam
   • •Description: This pooja is performed to invoke Lord Ganesha's blessings to remove obstacles and bring prosperity.
   • •Days: Daily
   • •Timing: Early morning around 5:30 AM
2. 2Abhishekam
   • •Description: This ritual involves bathing the deity with various sacred substances like milk, curd, honey, and more.
   • •Days: Daily
   • •Timing: 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM
3. 3Maha Aarti
   • •Description: A grand aarti (light offering) to the deity.
   • •Days: Daily
   • •Timing: 7:30 AM and 7:30 PM
4. 4Special Abhishekam
   • •Description: A more elaborate version of the daily abhishekam, often involving additional rituals and decorations.
   • •Days: Specific days like Sankatahara Chaturthi and festivals.
   • •Timing: Specific timings based on the festival calendar.
5. 5Chaturthi Pooja
   • •Description: Special pooja performed on Sankatahara Chaturthi, an important day dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
   • •Days: Monthly on Sankatahara Chaturthi
   • •Timing: Evening, around 6:00 PM
6. 6Ganesh Chaturthi Festival
   • •Description: Grand celebrations including multiple special poojas, abhishekams, and processions.
   • •Days: Annually on Ganesh Chaturthi (August-September)
   • •Timing: All day with specific poojas throughout the day.

Rates Associated with Special Poojas

• •Ganapathi Homam: ₹500 to ₹1000
• •Abhishekam: ₹300 to ₹500
• •Special Abhishekam: ₹700 to ₹1000
• •Chaturthi Pooja: ₹500
• •Ganesh Chaturthi Special Poojas: Rates vary based on the specific rituals and offerings.

Advance Booking Procedure

1. 1In-Person Booking: Visit the temple office during operating hours to book poojas and obtain necessary receipts.
2. 2Online Booking: Check the temple's official website for any online booking facilities. If available, follow the instructions to book the desired pooja.
3. 3Phone Booking: Call the temple administration at +91 413 2336544 to inquire about booking procedures and availability.
4. 4Email Booking: Some temples accept bookings via email. Check the temple's official contact page for email details.

Online Services for Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

Online Services

The Manakula Vinayagar Temple offers several online services to cater to the needs of devotees. These services are provided to ensure that devotees can participate in rituals, make donations, and stay updated with temple activities from anywhere.

Available Online Services

1. 1Pooja and Seva Booking:
   • •Devotees can book various poojas and sevas online through the temple's official website. This service allows devotees to participate in the rituals without being physically present at the temple.
   • •Website: Manakula Vinayagar Temple - Pooja Booking
2. 2Donations:
   • •The temple accepts online donations. Devotees can contribute to different causes such as Annadanam (free meals), temple maintenance, and specific festivals or rituals.
   • •Website: Manakula Vinayagar Temple - Donations
3. 3Live Darshan:
   • •During special festivals and significant days, the temple might offer live streaming services for devotees to watch the rituals and celebrations live.
   • •This service helps devotees who cannot visit the temple in person to still experience the spiritual activities.
4. 4Event Updates:
   • •The temple's official website and social media pages provide regular updates on upcoming events, festivals, and special poojas. This keeps the devotees informed about the temple's activities.
   • •Website: Manakula Vinayagar Temple
   • •Facebook Page: Manakula Vinayagar Temple Facebook

Dress Code for Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

General Guidelines

• •Modest Attire: Both men and women are expected to dress modestly when visiting the temple. This reflects respect for the sacredness of the place.

Specific Dress Code

1. 1Men:
   • •Traditional Wear: Men are encouraged to wear traditional Indian attire such as dhoti or veshti. Shirts are generally allowed, but during certain rituals and areas within the temple, men might be required to remove their shirts.
   • •Western Wear: If wearing Western attire, men should opt for long pants and shirts. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and tank tops are discouraged.
2. 2Women:
   • •Traditional Wear: Women are encouraged to wear sarees, salwar kameez, or other traditional attire that covers the shoulders and knees.
   • •Western Wear: If wearing Western attire, women should ensure that their clothing covers the shoulders, midriff, and knees. Avoid short skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops.

Special Poojas and Festival Days

• •Enhanced Dress Code: On special pooja days and festivals, adherence to the traditional dress code is more strictly observed. Devotees participating in special rituals might be required to follow a stricter dress code.
• •Festival Attire: During festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, traditional and festive attire is highly encouraged for both men and women.

Footwear

• •No Footwear Inside: As with most Hindu temples, footwear is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises. There are designated areas to leave your shoes before entering the temple.

Policy on Electronic Gadgets at Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

General Guidelines

• •Mobile Phones: Generally, mobile phones are allowed inside the temple premises, but their use should be respectful and non-intrusive. Photography may be restricted in certain areas.
• •Cameras and Other Gadgets: Professional cameras, video cameras, and other electronic recording devices may be restricted. It is best to inquire at the temple office regarding specific policies on photography and videography.

Specific Restrictions

• •Photography: In many temples, photography of the main deity and during rituals is strictly prohibited to maintain the sanctity of the temple. It is advisable to check with the temple authorities.
• •Silencing Devices: All electronic devices, including mobile phones, should be kept on silent mode to avoid disturbing the peaceful environment.

Deposit Facilities

• •Locker Facilities: If electronic gadgets are not allowed or if visitors prefer to deposit their devices, the temple might offer locker facilities. It is advisable to inquire at the temple office for the availability and location of these facilities.
• •Nearby Shops: In some cases, nearby shops or stalls might offer safekeeping services for a small fee.

Photography Policy

• •General Photography: Photography within the temple premises is generally allowed. However, there are certain restrictions:
• •Main Sanctum: Photography of the main deity and during specific rituals inside the sanctum sanctorum is typically prohibited to maintain the sanctity of the temple.
• •Flash and Professional Equipment: Use of flash photography and professional camera equipment may be restricted or require special permission.

Fees

• •No Specific Fees: There are no specific fees mentioned for general photography. However, for using professional cameras or for special photography sessions, it is advisable to check with the temple administration for any applicable charges or permissions required.

Facilities for Physically Handicapped at Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

The Manakula Vinayagar Temple is committed to providing a welcoming environment for all visitors, including those who are physically handicapped. Here are the details regarding facilities available for differently-abled individuals:

Elevator/Lift

• •Current Status: The temple does not have a dedicated elevator or lift for physically handicapped individuals. Access to certain areas might be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Alternative Facilities

• •Ramp Access: The temple is equipped with ramps at certain entry points to facilitate access for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues.
• •Assistance: Temple staff and volunteers are generally available to assist visitors with special needs, ensuring they can participate in the temple activities and darshan.

Recommendations

• •Plan Ahead: If you require assistance, it is advisable to contact the temple administration in advance to make necessary arrangements.
• •Visiting Hours: Choosing less crowded times might also provide a more comfortable experience.

Wheelchair Accessibility

The Manakula Vinayagar Temple provides facilities to assist elderly and physically challenged visitors. Specifically, the temple is equipped with ramps to facilitate wheelchair access, ensuring that those with mobility issues can enter the temple premises more comfortably.

Additional Assistance

• •Temple Staff: The temple staff and volunteers are generally available to assist visitors with special needs. This includes helping them navigate the temple grounds and participate in the rituals.

Special Entry and Darshan Timings for Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

General Timings

• •Morning: 5:45 AM to 12:30 PM
• •Evening: 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Special Arrangements for Sick, Senior Citizens, and Physically Challenged Persons:

While the Manakula Vinayagar Temple does not have widely publicized specific timings exclusively for senior citizens or physically challenged persons, they do offer facilities to make the temple accessible to all devotees, including those with mobility issues.

Accessibility and Assistance

1. 1Wheelchair Facilities:
   • •The temple is equipped with ramps to facilitate access for wheelchair users, ensuring that physically challenged visitors can navigate the temple premises more easily.
2. 2Assistance from Temple Staff:
   • •Temple staff and volunteers are available to assist those who need help. It is advisable to inform the temple administration in advance if special assistance is required.
3. 3Locker Facilities:
   • •Lockers are available for storing personal belongings, which can be particularly useful for those who might need to carry medical supplies or other essentials.
4. 4Special Darshan Tickets:
   • •Special entrance tickets for faster darshan are available for ₹20 per head. This can help reduce waiting times, which is particularly beneficial for elderly and physically challenged devotees.

Vehicle Pooja at Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

The Manakula Vinayagar Temple performs special poojas for vehicles, which are popular among devotees who wish to seek blessings for their new vehicles.

Details of Vehicle Pooja

1. 1Types of Vehicles:
   • •Two-Wheelers and Three-Wheelers:
   • •Cost: ₹25
   • •Four-Wheelers and Heavy Vehicles:
   • •Cost: ₹100
2. 2Timings:
   • •Vehicle poojas are generally conducted during the temple's regular opening hours:
   • •Morning: 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM
   • •Evening: 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM
   • •It is advisable to visit early in the day to avoid long wait times.

Procedure for Booking

• •On-site Booking: You can book the vehicle pooja directly at the temple by visiting the pooja booking counter.
• •Advance Booking: To ensure availability, especially on busy days or during special festivals, you can contact the temple administration in advance.

Accommodation Facilities at Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

Overview

The Manakula Vinayagar Temple does not directly provide accommodation facilities. However, there are several accommodation options nearby for pilgrims, ranging from budget to luxury hotels. These facilities cater to the needs of visitors and offer comfortable stays within close proximity to the temple.

Nearby Accommodation Options

1. 1Budget Hotels:
   • •Hotel Coramandal Heritage Inn: Offers basic amenities and comfortable stays at affordable rates.
   • •Lotus Comfort Hotel: Located near the temple, it provides decent facilities for budget-conscious travelers.
   • •Cost: Approximately ₹1000 - ₹2000 per night.
2. 2Mid-range Hotels:
   • •Anandha Inn Convention Centre and Suites: Provides a good balance of comfort and affordability with additional amenities like a swimming pool and restaurant.
   • •Hotel Atithi: Offers well-appointed rooms with modern amenities and is located within walking distance from the temple.
   • •Cost: Approximately ₹3000 - ₹5000 per night.
3. 3Luxury Hotels:
   • •The Promenade: A luxury hotel located by the beach, offering premium amenities and services.
   • •Le Dupleix: A boutique heritage hotel providing a luxurious stay with top-notch facilities.
   • •Cost: Approximately ₹6000 - ₹10000 per night.

Booking in Advance

• •Online Booking: Most hotels near the temple can be booked online through travel websites like Booking.com, Agoda, and MakeMyTrip.
• •Direct Contact: You can also contact the hotels directly via phone or their official websites to make reservations.
• •Travel Agents: Booking through travel agents can provide additional packages and deals, especially during peak seasons or festivals.

General Parking Information

The Manakula Vinayagar Temple, located in the heart of Puducherry, attracts numerous visitors daily. To accommodate the influx of pilgrims, the temple and surrounding area provide parking facilities for various types of vehicles, including cars, mini-buses, and two-wheelers.

Parking Options

1. 1Temple Parking Lot:
   • •Location: Adjacent to the temple premises.
   • •Vehicles: Suitable for two-wheelers and small cars.
   • •Capacity: Limited, so early arrival is recommended, especially during peak hours and festivals.
2. 2Nearby Public Parking:
   • •Municipal Parking Areas: There are designated municipal parking lots within walking distance of the temple.
   • •Multi-level Parking: Some multi-level parking facilities are available in the vicinity, catering to larger vehicles like mini-buses and multiple cars.
3. 3Private Parking Facilities:
   • •Hotels and Commercial Establishments: Many nearby hotels and commercial buildings offer parking spaces for their guests and visitors, which can be utilized for temple visits.
   • •Paid Parking Lots: Various paid parking lots are available near the temple, providing secure parking for a fee.

Specific Areas

• •Aurobindo Ashram Parking: This is a well-known parking area that can be used by visitors to the temple, located not too far from the temple premises.
• •Beach Road Parking: Offers extensive parking options and is a short walk from the temple, suitable for both cars and mini-buses.

Parking for Larger Vehicles

• •Mini-buses and Tourist Buses: Parking for larger vehicles like mini-buses and tourist buses is generally available in designated areas slightly further from the main temple entrance, ensuring these larger vehicles do not obstruct the narrow streets near the temple.

Recommendations

• •Plan Ahead: Due to the popularity of the temple, it is advisable to arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and festive seasons.
• •Check for Signage: Follow local signage for the nearest available parking options.
• •Contact Local Authorities: For any specific parking inquiries, contacting local traffic authorities or the temple administration can provide updated information.

Temple Prashad Services and Meals at Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

Prashad Services

The Manakula Vinayagar Temple provides daily prashad to its devotees. The temple's offerings include various types of prashad distributed after rituals and poojas.

Annadanam (Free Meals)

• •Daily Annadanam: The temple conducts an Annadanam (free meal) service daily. This service is available to all devotees visiting the temple.
• •Timings: The free meals are typically served around noon after the main morning pooja and during festival days. Specific timings can vary, so it is recommended to inquire at the temple office upon arrival.
• •Procedure: Devotees can participate in the Annadanam by joining the queue at the designated dining area within the temple premises. There is no specific ticket or booking required for this service.

Special Pooja Prashad

• •Pooja Offerings: When devotees book special poojas or sevas, they often receive prashad as part of the offering. The type of prashad can vary based on the pooja performed.
• •Booking Poojas: To book a special pooja, devotees can visit the temple office. The cost for different poojas varies, and booking in advance is advisable, especially during festivals and auspicious days.

Costs and Booking

• •Special Pooja Costs: The cost for special poojas and rituals can vary. For example:
• •Ganapathi Homam: ₹1500
• •Abhishekam: ₹550 to ₹1000
• •Special Entrance Ticket: ₹20 per head for faster darshan.
• •Advance Booking: Devotees can book in advance by visiting the temple office or contacting the temple administration. Inquiries about specific poojas and their costs can also be made via phone.

The Manakula Vinayagar Temple offers several types of prashad that devotees can take home. Here are the details:

Types of Carry Home Prashad

1. 1Laddu Prashad:
   • •Description: A traditional sweet made from flour, ghee, and sugar, often flavored with cardamom and nuts.
   • •Cost: Approximately ₹20 to ₹50 per piece.
2. 2Puliyodarai (Tamarind Rice):
   • •Description: A savory rice dish seasoned with tamarind, spices, and peanuts.
   • •Cost: Approximately ₹50 to ₹100 per pack.
3. 3Sweet Pongal:
   • •Description: A sweet dish made from rice, jaggery, lentils, and ghee.
   • •Cost: Approximately ₹50 to ₹100 per pack.
4. 4Other Sweets and Snacks:
   • •Description: Various other sweets and snacks might be available depending on the day and special occasions.
   • •Cost: Prices vary based on the type and quantity of the prashad.

Purchasing Procedure

• •On-site Purchase: Devotees can buy prashad directly from the temple’s prashad counter located within the temple premises.
• •Advance Orders: For larger quantities or specific requirements, it might be possible to place advance orders. Contacting the temple administration in advance can ensure availability.

Procedure for Reporting Items Lost at Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry

If you lose an item at the Manakula Vinayagar Temple, follow these steps to report it and increase the chances of recovering your belongings:

Steps to Report a Lost Item

1. 1Visit the Temple Office:
   • •Location: The temple office is usually located within or near the temple premises.
   • •Inform the Staff: Go to the temple office and inform the staff about the lost item. Provide a detailed description of the item, including when and where you think it was lost.
2. 2Provide Detailed Information:
   • •Description: Give a thorough description of the lost item. Include details such as color, size, distinguishing features, and any other relevant information.
   • •Contact Information: Provide your contact details so the temple staff can reach you if the item is found.
3. 3Fill Out a Lost and Found Form:
   • •Form Details: Some temples have a lost and found form that you will need to fill out. This form will record the details of the lost item and your contact information.
4. 4Check the Lost and Found Section:
   • •Location: Inquire if there is a designated lost and found section where items found within the temple are kept.
   • •Follow-Up: Regularly check back with the temple office or lost and found section to see if your item has been recovered.
5. 5Announcement System:
   • •Public Announcements: Request the use of the temple’s public announcement system to make an announcement about the lost item. This can be particularly effective in large and crowded temples.

Tips for Preventing Loss

• •Keep Valuables Secure: Ensure your belongings are secure and avoid carrying unnecessary valuables.
• •Use Lockers: Utilize any locker facilities provided by the temple for safekeeping of valuable items.
• •Stay Alert: Be mindful of your belongings, especially during peak times and festivals when the temple is crowded.

If a member of your group is missing during a visit to the Manakkula Vinayagar Temple, you should immediately report to the temple authorities or contact the temple's management using the provided contact numbers. It is advisable to wait near the main entrance of the temple or at a pre-designated meeting point that your group agrees upon beforehand. These steps ensure that the missing individual can be located efficiently and safely.

The website for the Manakkula Vinayagar Temple does not explicitly state whether the temple is registered under the state government or district administration.

For donations to the Manakkula Vinayagar Temple, apart from hundi offerings, you can contribute through specific bank accounts detailed on their website. They accept donations for various services and temple maintenance activities. For more precise information on how to donate, to whom, and the purposes your donations can support,

The Manakkula Vinayagar Temple's website does not specify whether there are privileges associated with donations, similar to those offered by temples like Tirupati or Shirdi. To find out if there are specific benefits linked to donations, such as special entry tickets or accommodations, you should contact the temple directly or check their official website for detailed information.

The Manakkula Vinayagar Temple is renowned for its architectural elegance, reflecting traditional Tamil design with intricate carvings and a vibrant array of colors. It features a gopuram (gateway tower) adorned with various stucco figures of deities involved in mythological incidents. The temple structure also utilizes scientific principles common in ancient Indian architecture, such as alignment with natural elements for spiritual and environmental harmony.

“ The region surrounding the Kasar Devi Temple has an enormous geomagnetic field or Paramagnetism, thanks to gaps in bands of radiation. As a result, Kasar Devi is endowed with a cosmic energy similar to that of Stonehenge in UK and Machu Picchu in Peru.”

The Manakkula Vinayagar Temple in Puducherry is renowned for its historical and spiritual significance. While it does not have the same type of geomagnetic or cosmic energies attributed to places like Kasar Devi, its significance lies in its age, the devotion it inspires, and the cultural practices surrounding its worship. The temple is particularly famous for its golden chariot, which is paraded around the streets during the annual Brahmotsavam festival, attracting devotees from across the region. This vibrant display of devotion and community spirit marks it as a special place of worship.

For foreigners interested in the spiritual aspects of the Manakkula Vinayagar Temple, it's important to note that this temple offers a serene atmosphere conducive to reflection and meditation. It's dedicated to Lord Ganesha, known as the remover of obstacles and patron of arts and sciences. Visitors often find the ritual of 'Prasadam' distribution (holy offering) spiritually enriching. The temple's elephant, which blesses visitors, adds a unique cultural and spiritual experience, making it more than just a religious site.

27 .Call to action or interaction links- here in it could be for

a. Puja( as and when we tie up) or link to the puja facility on the temple web site( back linking)

b.Donation ( link)

c.Accomodation - here link to our site where we have listed accommodation of all types with an enquiry form

d.Exemption available under Income tax act - 80G etc for the donation made. For eg. Donation to the Anna dana at Shirdi is eligible for 100%/50% exemption.

For the Manakkula Vinayagar Temple website, you might consider integrating the following call-to-action or interaction links:

a. Puja Services: Provide a link to book pujas directly through the temple's website, enhancing spiritual engagement for devotees.

b. Donations: Include a direct link to the temple’s donation page, facilitating easy contributions towards temple maintenance and rituals.

c. Accommodation: Link to your site with a detailed listing of accommodations near the temple, complete with an enquiry form for convenience.

d. Tax Exemption Information: Offer details on tax exemptions under the Income Tax Act, like Section 80G, for donations made to the temple, similar to exemptions available for donations like the Annadana at Shirdi.

These links can help streamline the visitor experience, providing both spiritual and practical support.

The annual event of the Manakkula Vinayagar Temple is the celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi. This festival, which marks the birthday of Lord Ganesha, is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm. Specific dates vary each year as they are based on the lunar calendar, typically occurring in the month of August or September.

The Manakkula Vinayagar Temple hosts a monthly event dedicated to Lord Ganesha, known as Sankatahara Chaturthi. This event occurs on the fourth day after the full moon, and the specific date changes each month according to the lunar calendar. Devotees participate in special pujas and offerings during this time.

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