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Chithra Pournami Pilgrimage: Devotee Dies While Climbing Velliangiri Hills

SimpliCity News Team · 03 May 2026

Coimbatore:

Coimbatore: A 34-year-old devotee died after collapsing while climbing the Velliangiri Hills during the Chithra Pournami pilgrimage on Sunday.

According to initial reports, the devotee was found unconscious along the hill path. Fellow pilgrims alerted the on-site medical team, which examined him and declared him dead. Efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.

The Alandurai police have registered a case and initiated an investigation to ascertain the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Officials said the exact cause of death will be determined following a post-mortem examination. The incident has raised concern among devotees visiting the hills.

Meanwhile, thousands of pilgrims have been ascending the Velliangiri Hills as part of the Chithra Pournami observance. The full moon day in the Tamil month of Chithirai is considered highly auspicious, attracting large numbers of devotees every year.

Authorities and local officials have repeatedly issued advisories urging pilgrims to assess their health conditions before undertaking the trek, particularly for issues related to blood pressure, diabetes and heart ailments. The Velliangiri Hills are known for their steep and physically demanding terrain.

In recent years, several deaths have been reported during both ascent and descent, often attributed to the strenuous climb and pre-existing medical conditions. Despite ongoing warnings, such incidents continue to occur intermittently during peak pilgrimage periods.

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Chithra Pournami Pilgrimage: Devotee Dies While Climbing Velliangiri Hills

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