Indra Vila
Indra Vila (Tamil: இந்திர விழா, romanized: Indra Viḻā, lit. 'Festival of Indra'), sometimes rendered Indra Vizha, was a historical Hindu festival that was celebrated in Tamilakam during the Sangam period (2nd century BCE – 3rd century CE). It was celebrated in honour of Vendhan (Indra), the deity associated with the Marutham landscape.
| Indra Vila | |
|---|---|
| Observed by | Tamils |
| Type | Religious, cultural |
| Significance | Veneration of Indra |
| Frequency | Once in a year |
| Related to | Bhogi, Pongal (festival) |
In the contemporary period, the festivities associated with the agricultural Indra Vila are primarily associated with the occasion of Bhogi Pongal, the day dedicated to Indra, and preserving all the elements of the seasonal festival. Locally, the Indra Vila is conducted at the Kamatchi Amman temple at the Kallimadai locality near Singanallur in Coimbatore every year. The Venkudai (White umbrella) festival, depicting the white umbrella and the Airavata of Indra, is conducted every year at Rajapalayam, in commemoration of the ancient Indra Vila.