The backwaters and the sky above at the Cuddalore port were lit up by serial lights and fireworks as fishermen performed ‘Theppotsavam’ in a grand manner as part of Masi Magam festivities on Monday night.

Residents of at least six fishing villages, including Sonankuppam and Akkaraigori, gathered in large numbers to witness the event.

Fishermen tied up trawlers to serve as floats for carrying processional deities in the backwaters. Two floats illuminated with colourful serial lights set on bamboo frames in the form of the processional deities – Sri Venkatesa Perumal from Sonankuppam and Goddess Marriamman from Akkaraigori – stood 110 ft high and 40 ft wide each.

Both the floats proceeded from opposite directions and met at the midpoint of the backwaters. Non-stop fireworks for about two hours were a delight to spectators.

Kaviarasan of Sonankuppam said that at in this annual event, usually six processional deities from as many places of worship would participate in the Theppotsavam.

source: http://www.TheHindu.com / Home> News> National / by Special Correspondent / Cuddalore, February 27th, 2013