Thirumullaivoyal Pachai Amman Temple, Chennai

Address

Pachiamman Nagar,
Thirumullaivoyal, Chennai,
Tamil Nadu – 600062.

Amman

Pachai Amman

Introduction

Pachaiamman Temple is a historic and sacred shrine located near Kulakkarai Street, Thirumullaivoyal, a suburb of Chennai. Estimated to be over 1000–2000 years old, the temple is surrounded by lush greenery and water bodies, offering a tranquil retreat for devotees and visitors alike. Renowned for its serene ambiance, the temple is a haven for those seeking peace and spiritual solace.

Puranic Significance
The Pachaiamman Temple holds immense mythological importance, tied to the story of Goddess Parvathi’s penance. According to legend, when Goddess Parvathi playfully blindfolded Lord Shiva, the world plunged into darkness, causing immense destruction. To atone for her act, Parvathi descended to Earth to perform penance at various sacred sites, including Thirumullaivoyal. Here, she rested, accompanied by the Sapta Rishis (seven sages) and Sapta Kannigal (seven maidens), who guarded her.

Parvathi’s immense penance led to her reunion with Lord Shiva as Arthanareeswara, symbolizing their divine union. The goddess was named Pachaiamman, meaning “green goddess,” reflecting her association with nature, fertility, and vitality.

Origin of the Name
Several legends explain the name Pachaiamman:

Durbar Grass Transformation: Gautama Rishi’s holy seat made of yellow Durbar grass turned lush green when the goddess sat upon it.
Fondness for Greenery: Folklore suggests that Goddess Parvathi, during her earthly sojourn, was drawn to the greenery of banana leaves.
Emerald Glow: Sri Ramana Maharishi explained that the goddess emitted an emerald-green aura during her penance, leading to her being called Pachaiamman.

In one significant legend, a local king sought to marry the goddess, only to anger her. Taking the fierce form of Kali, she defeated him with the help of the Sapta Kannigal and Sapta Rishis, whose statues are enshrined in the temple.

Temple Beliefs and Significance
Devotees visit Pachaiamman Temple for numerous reasons, including:

Seeking peace, health, wealth, and happiness.
Praying for marital blessings and children.
Relieving ailments, as the nearby water bodies are believed to have medicinal properties.

The temple is also a hub for sages and saints seeking enlightenment through penance.

Special Features

The Main Sanctum houses the goddess Pachaiamman in her vibrant green form, flanked by icons of Gangai Amman and Vengi Amman, revered Tamil Nadu village deities.
Sapta Rishis: Life-sized stucco statues of the seven sages stand opposite the shrine, depicted as warriors with weapons.
Other Shrines: Include idols of Mannatheeswarar (Lord Shiva) with Eswari, Ganapati, and Tiruneelkantar. Dakshinamurti, Varahi, and Kaththayee are also present within the temple premises.
Unique Stucco Work: The temple features colorful stucco figures rather than stone icons, adding a distinctive charm.

Festivals
The temple celebrates several vibrant festivals: