Durga Stalin visits Kanchipuram, honours ancient temple artisans for their craft

Durga Stalin visits Kanchipuram, honours ancient temple artisans for their craft (image: ANI)

Durga Stalin (wife of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin) visited Kanchipuram on Sunday and honoured the artisans who created the golden chariot for the historic Ekambaranathar Temple. She recognised their work by presenting them with traditional shawls, acknowledging the role of temple artisans in preserving ancient craftsmanship.

Visit to Maha Periyava Manimandapam

Earlier in the day, Durga Stalin reached the Maha Periyava Manimandapam at Orikkai, where she received poorna kumbha honours from the Ekambaranathar Temple Charitable Trust. Outside the mandapam, she offered fruits to the Dharmapuram Adheenam elephant and received its blessings, a gesture symbolising respect and devotion.

Trustee Mani Iyer later briefed her on the architectural features and heritage significance of the Manimandapam. Durga Stalin then offered prayers to Mahaperiyava Swamigal and participated in the yagasala pujas linked to the golden chariot ceremony. After the rituals, she felicitated the sculptors responsible for the project.

Leaders and Dignitaries in Attendance

The event was attended by Thondai Mandala Adheenam Chidambaranatha Gnana Desika Paramachariyar Swamigal, Kanchipuram Mayor M. Mahalakshmi Yuvaraj, DMK Executive Committee Member MS Sukumar, Ekambaranathar Temple Charitable Trust Administrator Mahalakshmi Subramaniam, and several other leaders.

CM Stalin Highlights Major Investments at Conclave

Meanwhile in Chennai, Chief Minister MK Stalin addressed the Tamil Nadu Rising Investors’ Conclave 2025, emphasizing the state’s economic achievements. He announced confirmed investments worth Rs 11,83,000 crore and employment opportunities created for 34 lakh people since his government took office.

Foundation stones were laid for seven new projects valued at Rs 17.17 crore, while 63 completed projects amounting to Rs 2,630.88 crore were inaugurated, underlining Tamil Nadu’s focus on industrial growth and regional development.

Focus on Investment and Women’s Empowerment

CM Stalin noted that he travelled to countries such as Singapore, Japan, Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom to attract global investors. He also highlighted initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s economic participation, stating that Tamil Nadu employs the highest number of women in factories across India.

This combined focus on heritage, economic progress, and social empowerment reflects the state’s commitment to both cultural preservation and modern development.