Madurai, Dec. 22 -- A group of local residents staged a protest against the flag-hoisting ceremony for the Santhanakoodu festival at the Hazrat Sikandar Dargah located atop the Thiruparankundram hill in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

On Sunday, the protesters demanded that, in accordance with a court order, Karthigai Deepam be lit at the pillar near the dargah during the Tamil month of Karthigai.

The Thirumangalam Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) has granted permission for the flag-hoisting ceremony for the Santhanakoodu festival at the Hazrat Sultan Sikandar Badusha Auliya Dargah atop the Thiruparankundram hill. The festival will be held till January 6, 2026.

Meanwhile, preparations were underway for the Santhanakoodu festival, with the main ev...