23.55 lakh devotees take part in Mahamaham festival

Over 23 lakh people have taken the holy dip as part of the Mahamaham festival here, known as the Kumbh Mela of the South, in the last seven days, officials said today.
The Mahamaham festival, held once in 12 years, commenced on February 13 with the hoisting of a flag.
Since then, a total of 23.55 lakh pilgrims have taken the holy dip in the sprawling Mahamaham Tank here till yesterday, an official statement here said.
The most important event of the festival 'theerthavari' falls on February 22, when a huge rush of devotees is expected as it is considered most sacred to take a holy dip in the Mahamaham Tank here on that day.

All the preceding nine days are also considered sacred to take the holy dip.
Meanwhile, scores of devotees took part in the car festival of Adhi Kumbeswarar temple today.

Thanjavur district administration has made elaborate arrangements, including setting up of seven temporary bus terminals for the benefit the pilgrims taking part in the Mahamaham festival.
Around 30,000 police personnel have been pressed into service besides, deployment of fire personnel and disaster management teams to respond to any situation.
The local administration has ordered closure of liquor shops here for three days from today.