Thousands Mark 'Vidyarambham' on Vijayadasami in Tamil Nadu

Chennai: The rhythmic scratching of tiny fingers tracing their first letters on beds of paddy grains echoed across Tamil Nadu on Tuesday, as thousands of families gathered with their children at temples including in schools to celebrate Vijayadasami with deep religious fervor. Marking the culmination of the Navaratri festival, the auspicious day served as a sacred milestone for young children, mostly between the ages of three and four, participating in "Vidyarambham", the traditional initiation into formal education and learning.

Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and wisdom, the celebrations saw educational materials-carefully set aside during Saraswathi Puja (on Monday)-reopened on Tuesday to welcome a new chapter of academic and spiritual growth.

While prominent city landmarks like the Vadapalani Murugan Temple witnessed massive turnout, the epicentre of devotion remained the renowned Sri Maha Saraswathi temple at Koothanur in Tiruvarur district.

Hundreds of parents flocked to the historic shrine, famously praised by the ancient poet Ottakoothar, to seek blessings for their little ones.

Following special 'abhishekams' and vibrant decorations for the presiding deity, priests led the poignant rituals.

In a deeply symbolic ceremony, children were given a drop of honey, had sacred mantras whispered into their ears, and were guided to write the auspicious 'Pillaiyar Suzhi' and the first two Tamil vowel, 'A and Aa,' spread across paddy grains.

Adequate police personnel were deployed across major religious venues in the state to manage the heavy influx of devotees and ensure the smooth conduct of the celebrations.