Vennai Thazhi. Apr 12, 2005.

It is another highlight of the 18 days of Utsavam. Vennai Thazhi is a day time event. During Vennai Thazhi, Sri Rajagopal Swami will appear in the incarnation of Bala Krishnan with Vennai Thazhi (his favourite butter pot).

Devotees worship him and offer Vennai (Butter) in PooArasa ILai. With throng of devotees, and the Vakanam running fast in hot summer day, it has become a tradition to throw the leaves with butter towards the Lord. You can see butter all over the Lord and on people nearby and more leaves flying.

I learned Mannargudi is one of few places where the Lord is still carried on the shoulder without any mechanical help. In fact, the people who do this generation after generation, fight not to give up this Holy Right. Of course they do not wear any foot wear when carrying the Lord. You can understand why the Vakanam runs as fast as it does under the hot April sun.

During Vennai Thazhi, you can see scores of 'Neer moar panthal' all over the town offering free cold water and buttermilk from earthen pots. Many other businesses make use of the oppurtunity to distribute freebies with their tademarks.