Madurai, May 2 -- The fourth day of the world-renowned Chithirai festival at Madurai's Meenakshi Amman Temple was marked by a grand procession of the deities Meenakshi Sundareswarar in a golden palanquin, drawing large crowds across the temple town on Friday.

On the occasion, the deities were adorned with traditional armour embedded with precious stones and taken in a ceremonial procession along the four Masi streets. Earlier in the day, they were stationed at the Paavakkai Mandapam in Villapuram before commencing their evening journey at 6 pm through South Gate, Chinnakadai Street, and Chithirai Street, blessing the assembled devotees.

A moment unfolded as the procession passed by the South Gate area, where members of the Mughayadeen A...