Mayuranathar THIRU ther function

The history of the "Aippasi 29 ther" festival in Mayiladuthurai is tied to the temple lore of the Mayuranathaswami Temple, specifically the story of Lord Shiva dancing with his consort, Parvathi, who had taken the form of a peacock (Mayil). While the term "ther" (chariot) usually refers to a specific day, the legend of the "Gowri Thaandagam" (dance) happening on the 25th of Aippasi and the "Thiru Kalyanam" (divine wedding) on the 27th are the key historical events celebrated. The significance of this event is why the sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswathi are believed to have come to Mayiladuthurai to perform pooja to cleanse themselves of sins, a process that takes place during the month of Aippasi, leading to the "Theerthavari" (holy bath) being performed on all 30 days of Aippasi.
History and significance of the festival
Origin of the name: The town of Mayiladuthurai gets its name from the legend that Goddess Parvathi manifested as a peacock to perform a miraculous dance to attract Lord Shiva's attention.
The divine dance: The legend states that on the 25th day of Aippasi (Aippasi 25), Lord Shiva, in the form of a male peacock, danced with Parvathi, who was in the form of a peahen. This dance is known as "Gowri Thaandagam".
Divine wedding: Following the dance, the divine wedding between Lord Shiva and Parvathi took place on the 27th day of Aippasi (Aippasi 27).
Sacred rivers cleanse themselves: The sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswathi, which had become polluted from the sins of the people, came to Mayiladuthurai to perform pooja to cleanse themselves. Lord Shiva granted them relief, and they were cleansed by taking dips in the Cauvery river at Mayiladuthurai.
Theerthavari: In memory of these events, the "Theerthavari" (holy bath) is performed for all 30 days of Aippasi, a unique festival feature.
Significance of the Aippasi 29 date
While there is no specific event tied to Aippasi 29, it falls within the auspicious month of Aippasi, a time when many significant events and festivals, including the "Theerthavari," are celebrated.
The month of Aippasi is particularly significant as it is believed to be a spiritually significant time to honor ancestors and seek their blessings for prosperity.
The festival continues until the "Kadai muzhukku" (the last day) of Aippasi, where all the temple deities join the Mayuranathar at the Cauvery river for the final holy bath.