Dharmapuri Sri Kalyana Kamakshi Amman Temple

Address

Dharmapuri Sri Kalyana Kamakshi Amman Temple,

Dharmapuri, Sangampatti,

Tamil Nadu 636701

Amman

Sri Kalyana Kamakshi

Introduction

• Located in Dharmapuri Town, Salem district, Tamil Nadu.
• Dedicated to Goddess Shoolini, a form of Durga.
• One of the oldest temples in the district, believed to be over 1800 years old.
• The temple is approached through 18 sacred steps, which are considered holy and cleaned daily.
• On New Moon days, women perform poojas for the steps and hold the umbrella during the procession of Goddess Aadhi Kamakshi.

Puranic Significance:

• Trident and Mahishasura: The temple is the only one dedicated to Goddess Shoolini, depicted with three tridents, symbolizing her victory over the demon Mahishasura.
• Yudhishthira’s Worship: The town is named Dharmapuri as Yudhishthira worshipped Goddess Shoolini here.
• Matru Mandir: The temple emphasizes the greatness of motherhood and the divine union of Shiva and Shakti.
• Miracles of Protection: Goddess Shoolini is believed to protect devotees who offer their lives for the state, with the ritual of lime fruits punctured on tridents symbolizing this practice.

Beliefs:

• Worshipping Goddess Shoolini grants blessings for business growth, family unity, and protection from negative influences.
• Shoolini Raja Durga Yajna: Performed on Ashtami days for removal of evil and fulfilling devotees’ wishes.
• Devotees perform Abishekam and offer Vastras to the goddess.

Special Features:

• 18-Step Approach: The temple’s unique architecture features a sacred 18-point star structure, symbolizing the 18 Sadh Gunas (qualities) for gaining Goddess Shoolini’s favor.
• Hanging Pillar: A relic of ancient rituals, believed to be associated with the protection practices.
• Rare Darshan: The full-standing form of Goddess Shoolini is visible only on the third Tuesday of the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August). On other days, only the goddess’s face can be viewed.

Festivals:

• New Moon Days (Amavasya): Special poojas and rituals, with women worshipping the steps.
• Ashtami Days: Worship for the goddess on the eighth day of the new and full moon fortnights.
• Poornima (Full Moon Days): Rituals honoring the goddess.
• Chandi Yajna: A three-day event held in the Tamil month of Thai (January-February) for Goddess Shoolini.
• Navaratri (September-October): A festival dedicated to the goddess, celebrated with intense devotion.

Century/Period

1800 Years Old

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE)

Nearest Bus Station

Dharmapuri

Nearest Railway Station

Dharmapuri

Nearest Airport

Coimbatore

Location on Map

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