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