The Five Garuda Sevai (Ainthu Garuda Sevai) at the Koodal Azhagar Temple in Madurai is a rare, grand festival held on the auspicious night of Purattasi Pournami (the full moon day of the Tamil month of Purattasi). During this spectacular event, five distinct Perumal deities are beautifully decorated, mounted simultaneously upon five magnificent golden and silver Garuda Vahanas (the sacred eagle vehicle of Lord Vishnu), and taken out in a majestic joint procession through the historic West, North, East, and South Masi Streets of Madurai. While multiple Garuda festivals occur in other regional temples, celebrating it precisely on Purattasi Pournami is a unique tradition exclusive to Koodal Azhagar, drawing thousands of ecstatic devotees who line the streets to receive blessings, witness the elaborate rituals, and experience the divine energy of the deities moving together in a single, breathtaking parade.
The Five Garuda Sevai features five distinct deities. Two of the forms are from the Koodal Azhagar Temple itself, while the other three arrive from nearby temples in Madurai to join the grand procession.
The Five Deities:
Koodal Azhagar: The presiding deity of the main temple, appearing in his majestic posture.
Vyuga Sundararajar: The exquisite processional deity (utsavar) of the Koodal Azhagar Temple.
Veera Raghava Perumal: The deity arriving from the Veera Raghava Perumal Temple on Eluthanikara Street.
Ranganathar: The processional deity arriving from the historic Ranganathar Temple located on North Masi Street.
Madana Gopala Swamy: The deity arriving from the Madana Gopala Swamy Temple situated at the intersection of West and South Masi Streets.
