In Mayuram, Pillai began the practice of observing the Arunagirinathar Thiruvizha, in honour of the creator of the “Thirupugazh”. Spending his own money for it, he conducted the festival for ten days in each year, till his demise. The festival was conducted in the month of Purattasi (September /October) and involved music concerts every day. It was during this festival in 1951, Pillai introduced AKC Natarajan and his clarinet to the audiences. He was also to provide Karukurichi Arunachalam with a similar opportunity. The famous kathakalakshepam artist Kripanandha Variar and singer Pithukuzhi Murugadas were regular performers at the festival. The last day featured annadhanam for which Pillai again spent his own funds. He funded the construction of a mandapam for Arunagirinathar in Mayavaram in which a statue of the composer was installed. After his demise, the statue was taken to Tiruvengadu where it even remains now.