Tiruvappur Sri Muthumari Amman Temple, Pudukkottai.

Address

Tiruvappur Sri MuthuMariAmman Temple, Pudukkottai.

Kalayanpuram, Pudukkottai district,

Tamil Nadu 622005

Amman

Muthu Mari Amman

Introduction

Muthumariamman Temple is located in Tiruvappur, near Thirukokarnam, approximately 5 kilometers from Pudukkottai in Tamil Nadu, India. This ancient temple, dedicated to Goddess Muthumariamman, features the deity in a seated posture. The temple complex includes a front mandapa, a Dwajasthambam (flagstaff), bali peetam (sacrificial altar), and sanctum sanctorum. Within the prakara (circumambulatory path), shrines for Goddess Meenakshi of Madurai and Goddess Kamatchi of Kanchipuram are also present. Aadi Fridays (July–August) are particularly significant, drawing numerous devotees.

Puranic Significance

Around 300 years ago, a priest, while in a divine trance, revealed the hidden location of the idol of Goddess Muthu Mari beneath the ground. The idol was unearthed and consecrated for worship. At the time, Pudukkottai was an independent princely state, known for its prosperity and cultural significance. The kingdom even minted special coins called “Amman Kasu” with the symbol of Goddess Mariamman.

According to legend, the king’s son fell critically ill with smallpox and eventually passed away, despite the king’s prayers to the Goddess. Distraught, the king ordered the removal of the idol from its original site. However, as the idol was being moved, the people of Tiruvappur intervened and enshrined it in a secure location, now known as Kattu Mari Amman Koil.

That night, the Goddess appeared in the king’s dream, explaining that his son’s fate was destined and that she now regarded him as her divine child. Realizing the Goddess’s immense power, the king reinstalled her in her original sanctum, recognizing her as the protector of his people.

Beliefs

Devotees visit the temple with various wishes, including prayers for:

Marriage and childbirth
Health and recovery from ailments such as smallpox
Employment opportunities and family harmony

It is a common practice for a family member to visit the temple daily if someone in their household is afflicted with smallpox, with the belief that the Goddess’s blessings bring swift recovery. Devotees offer abhishekam (ritual bathing) to the deity, present new saris, lime fruit garlands, and prepare pongal (sweet rice pudding) as a form of gratitude for fulfilled wishes.

Special Features

Historical Significance: The temple is believed to be over 600 years old. The deity was rediscovered based on a priest’s divine prediction and has since been a focal point of devotion in the region.
Administrative Evolution: Initially managed as part of the Pragambal Tirukokarneswar Temple in Thirukokarnam, the temple is now under the jurisdiction of the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department.
Deity’s Divine Aura: The temple is renowned for its miraculous interventions, with devotees testifying to the Goddess’s benevolence and protective powers.

Festivals

The temple celebrates Aadi Fridays in the Tamil month of Aadi (July–August) with grandeur and fervor. These festivals attract large crowds who seek the blessings of Muthumariamman for prosperity, health, and protection.