The Prime Minister was welcomed by local priests at the temple

Upon his arrival in the state, large crowds had flocked to see him during a roadshow in Tiruchirappalli district, where his convoy received a warm welcome from local residents gathered for his arrival

During his address, PM Modi discussed Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7 in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives

The Prime Minister stated that Operation Sindoor has compelled the world to acknowledge India's strength and resolve, asserting "there is no safe haven in the world for India's enemies and terrorists"

Later, PM Modi attended the valedictory function of the 'Aadi Thiruvathirai' Festival at the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Ariyalur. During the festival, which marked King Rajendra Chola I's birth anniversary, he emphasised strengthening India's defence forces, drawing inspiration from the Chola Empire's powerful navy for a 'Viksit Bharat'

Dressed in traditional attire, including a white veshti and angavasthram, the Prime Minister released a commemorative coin honouring Rajendra Chola I. He highlighted the Chola era's significant economic and military achievements, specifically noting Rajaraja Chola's powerful navy, which was further strengthened by Rajendra Chola