Chennai, Aug. 5 (PTI): Lakhs of devotees from all over the country thronged the Dharparanyeswarar temple at Thirunallaru near Karaikal in the Union Territory of Puducherry today and offered worship to Lord Saturn on the occasion of 'Sanipeyarchi' (transition of Saturn) today.

The devotees, including a large number of women and children, took a holy dip in the temple's sacred tank "nala theertham" and performed special poojas to appease Lord Saturn in order to ward off the evil effects of the 'Sanipeyarchi'.

Special 'abhishekams' and 'aradhanas' were performed throughout the day. Temple authorities made elaborate security arrangements in view of the huge rush of devotees.

For the first time, the entire ritual was webcast live to enable people across the world to witness the event.

According to Hindu calendar, Lord Saturn moved from Kadaga Rasi (cancer) to Simha Rasi (Leo) at 1219 hours. The transition takes place once in 30 months.

Special poojas were also performed at Shiva temples across Tamil Nadu, where people lit lamps with gingelly oil, the favourite of Lord Saturn, before 'navagrahas' (nine planets) and offered worship.

Hindu mythology has it that legendary king Nala was rid of all curses he had due to the effect of Lord Saturn and was reunited with his wife Damayanthi, once he had a holy dip in the temple tank at Tirunallaru.

Puducherry Lt Governor Mukut Mithi and top government and police officials were among those who visited the temple.