Madurai: It is that time of the year when children dress up as their favourite gods and goddesses and take part in processions as part of the Chithirai festival in Madurai. Make-up artists compete to make children resemble deities of the festival using detailed costumes, makeup, face painting, and jewellery.
"It has become an annual tradition for our daughter to dress up as goddess Meenakshi as part of the festival," said Lakshmi, mother of a 10-year-old. Many families visit makeup artists and studios that handle everything from renting costumes and materials to applying the outfit, turning children into tiny gods and goddesses.
While some children opt for the full look, including face and body painting, costumes, and jewellery, others prefer a simpler take on their favourite deity. Sumathi, a makeup artist who also teaches other stylists, has been dressing up children as deities for the past 21 years. "It is important that the next generation takes interest in our culture and festivities," she said, adding that the rise of social media has led to greater interest.
Rates for these costumes and makeup looks range between Rs 650 and Rs 1,500, depending on the detail and kind of costumes. The full process takes a professional in the studio anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes. Sumathi said couples from outside Madurai bring their children to dress them up as deities. "Chithirai festival is an important part of the year, as it allows us to express our devotion to the deities in a unique way," she added.
