Around the temple were hundreds of stalls selling food -- from Idli Sambar to Bhaji to rice with Papads to ice creams. Some stalls sold thalis, turmeric, coconuts, balloons, bangles and flowers.
Even at 9 pm, many were seen buying thalis, flowers and coconuts to offer to the deity.
By then, the place was overflowing with people from all the nearby villages, all drunk and ready for a blast. The more experienced advised us to leave the place before 10 pm, as the place became extremely "dangerous."
Like Aravan enjoyed his last night with Mohini, all Aravanis enjoy their first night as brides in the vast open land under the moonlight.
For the last couple of years, TAI volunteers have been distributing condoms. There were banners all over the place with messages about HIV/AIDS.
Also see: Ashram spells hope for AIDS orphans
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