Allikundam Sivanammal Temple, Madurai

Address

Allikundam, Usilampatti taluka,

Madurai District,

Tamil Nadu – 625527

Amman

Sivanammal

Introduction

Location: Allikundam Village, Usilampatti Taluk, Madurai District, Tamil Nadu, India
Deity: Goddess Sivanammal
Age: Believed to be 500-1000 years old
Significance: Goddess Sivanammal is the presiding deity of the temple, revered as the guardian deity not only of the villagers of Allikundam but also for the surrounding communities.

Puranic Significance

The legend of the Allikundam Temple is rooted in the story of Nallathevan, the protector of Kandamanur Zamindar, who was responsible for paying taxes to the Madurai King Thirumalai Nayak on a monthly basis. During his trips to Madurai to pay the taxes, Nallathevan encountered Sivanammal, a beautiful young woman herding cattle in Urappanur. Struck by her beauty, Nallathevan asked her parents for her hand in marriage, but they refused. Undeterred, Nallathevan abducted Sivanammal while she was working in the fields and took her to Kandamanur to marry her.

The most significant event in Kandamanur was the Zameen-led Slide Climbing Competition, a traditional event where participants had to climb a slippery tree covered with oil. Nallathevan, determined to win, succeeded despite repeated slips and eventually reached the top to retrieve the cloth, which was adorned with gold coins. However, as he celebrated, someone from the crowd secretly poisoned a spear and threw it at Nallathevan. He died shortly after being struck.

Sivanammal, devastated by the loss of her husband, declared that she could not live without him and insisted on being cremated alongside him. She traveled to Madurai to seek the King’s permission to perform the ritual, which was granted. Both Nallathevan’s and Sivanammal’s bodies were prepared for cremation. However, when the bodies were placed in the fire, only Sivanammal’s body remained unburned. This miraculous event amazed the people, and they began worshipping her as a goddess. They built a temple in her honor, and the unburned parts of her body were revered by the villagers.

Beliefs and Worship

Devotees believe that worshipping Goddess Sivanammal at this temple brings blessings of health, prosperity, and peace, as well as relief from Puthra Dosha (difficulties related to having children). The goddess is considered a protector who can heal ailments and grant the wish for progeny.

Festivals and Rituals

Shivaratri Festival: The most significant festival at Allikundam Temple is held for three days during Shivaratri in the month of February. Devotees gather to perform rituals and prayers to honor Goddess Sivanammal and seek her blessings.