The annual Theru festival of the historic Matale Sri Muthumari Amman Temple began at the auspicious time, yesterday. The statues of Lord Murugan, Sivan Ambal, Shri Ganeshan, Shandeshulary and Goddess Pattini in beautifully illuminated and decorated chariots, drawn by devotees, both Hindus and Buddhists, were taken along the streets in procession. The procession will be conducted today too. Picture by Siri Abayasiri, Matale Central Group Corr.