Makeup artists giving kids divine makeover draw attention, mint money at Chithirai fest

AS the Chithirai festival transforms Madurai into a sea of drums, flowers and chants, it's not just the deities who shine - it's the kids dressed as them.

- HARINI M @ Madurai

The streets around the Meenakshi temple become a runway of miniature gods and goddesses, with children posing in intricate costumes, striking makeup and jewellery. And behind this growing trend? A booming business for local makeup artists.

Among them this year was 14-year-old Dharanishri from Thirupparankundram. Dressed in a dazzling Meenakshi costume, with intricate face paint and elaborate jewellery, she turned heads as festivalgoers stopped her for selfies. "She was mesmerised by the deity look last year and insisted we do it for her this time," said her mother, A Subalakshmi. Ahead of the festival, Dharanishri kept reminding her parents of her wish.