Swamithoppu Pathi Resonates with Devotion as ‘Kali Vettai’ Ritual Marks Peak of Thai Thiruvizha

New Delhi, january 24, 2026: On the eighth day of the auspicious Thai Thiruvizha festival, the Swamithoppu Pathi, the primary spiritual headquarters of the Ayyavazhi sect, witnessed a massive gathering of devotees for the historic Kali Vettai (Hunting of Kali) ritual.

The ritual, which symbolizes the victory of Lord Ayya Vaikundar over the dark forces of the Kali Yuga, remains one of the most culturally significant events in the Kanyakumari district.

The Divine Hunt: Victory Over Evil

The highlight of the day began in the evening when the deity, Ayya Vaikundar, was ceremoniously placed upon the Kuthirai Vahana (Horse Vehicle). Amidst the rhythmic chants of “Ayya Siva-Siva Siva-Siva Ara-Hara,” the procession moved from the inner sanctum towards the Mutirikkinaru, the sacred well.

As per tradition, the Kali Vettai represents the symbolic hunting of the “Kali Neesan” (the personification of evil and ego). During the procession, the temple’s chief priest performed the ritualistic “hunt” using a bow and arrow, signaling the destruction of ignorance and the restoration of Dharma.

A Sea of Devotion

Thousands of pilgrims from across Tamil Nadu and Kerala converged at the temple to witness the event. The atmosphere was charged with spiritual energy as devotees offered:

• Surul Poojai: Offerings of fruits and flowers at various points along the procession route.
• Holy Bath: Many took a dip in the Mutirikkinaru, believed to cleanse the soul of sins.
• Anna Dharmam: Extensive community feasts were organized, upholding Ayya Vaikundar’s core teaching of equality and “Dharma” through feeding the hungry.

Significance of Thai Thiruvizha

The Thai Thiruvizha is one of three major annual festivals held at Swamithoppu. Spanning eleven days, the festival follows a strict spiritual regimen:

1. Kodiyettru: The festival commenced with the formal flag hoisting.
2. Daily Vahana Bhavani: Every day features the deity on different mounts, including the Swan, Simhasana (Throne), and Garuda.
3. The Chariot Festival: Following the Kali Vettai, the festival will culminate on the eleventh day with the grand Therottam (Car Festival), where the massive wooden chariot is pulled through the four car streets.

“The Kali Vettai is not just a ritual; it is a reminder that truth and righteousness will always prevail over darkness,” said a senior devotee attending the ceremony.

Looking Ahead

With the successful completion of the eighth-day rituals, the administration is now preparing for the Maha Therottam (Great Chariot Procession) scheduled for the final day. Local authorities have increased security and transport facilities to accommodate the expected surge in visitors for the festival’s grand finale.