The annual Mamallapuram Dance Festival is celebrated in the month of January and lasts upto four weeks. The best performers of Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi and Kathakali perform on weekends through the month. The harvest festival of Pongal is also celebrated around then. Pongal, Masi Magam and Mamallapuram Dance Festival are the popular festivals in Mamallapuram. Masi Magam, also called Masi Makam is celebrated in February or March at the Thirukadalmallai Temple. It is one of the most elaborate and colourful festivals celebrated with lots of enthusiasm, pomp and exuberance. Festivities include a grand procession wherein the idol of Lord Perumal and his consort ‘Nilamangai Thaayar’ are carried to the Mahabalipuram beach. Lord Perumal and Goddess Nilamangai Thaayar are given a ceremonial bath in the water; following which, thousands of devotees take a dip in the same water. Devotees gather in huge numbers and enjoy the festival.