O. Siruvayal Ponnazhagiamman Temple, Sivaganga

Address

O. Siruvayal Village,

Sivaganga District,

Tamil Nadu – 630208

Phone: +91- 4577 – 264 778

Amman

Sri Ponnazhagiamman

Introduction

The Ponnazhagiamman Temple, located in O. Siruvayal Village in the Sivaganga District of Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Goddess Ponnazhagiamman. This temple is believed to be around 1000 years old. The Ponnazhagiamman Temple is situated in O. Siruvayal Village, which is approximately 5 km away from Karaikudi.

Puranic Significance

The region where the temple stands today was once a dense forest.
People, while digging the ground, discovered a root that was bleeding. This unusual occurrence was reported to the villagers.
Upon further investigation, they found the deity, Ponnazhagi Ambal, as a swayambumurthy (self-manifested form) and decided to build a temple in her honor.

Deity and Iconography:

The presiding deity of the temple is Goddess Ponnazhagiamman. She is depicted as a swayambumurthy and is in the form of a Linga.
Ponnazhagiamman is portrayed with her neck slightly turned to the right, holding weapons in her eight hands to slay the demon Mahishasura. A battle axe cut scar is still visible.
The temple also houses the guardian deity Kalluchi Amman, who is worshipped with Kumkum archana (offering of vermilion).
A unique feature of the temple is the presence of Lord Hanuman, who is depicted holding the feet of Lord Rama in a form of surrender.

Beliefs

The temple is known for its rituals that promote brotherhood and unity. It is believed that praying at this temple can lead to the reuniting of brothers who may have become estranged.
A special ritual called “Thathu Koduthal” is conducted, where brothers separated due to differences come together for a happy reunion.
Devotees also offer Vada, a popular South Indian dish, as a form of nivedhana (offering) to the deity.
Silk vastras (cloths) and Sandal abhishek (anointing with sandalwood paste) are offered to Goddess Ponnazhagiamman to end delays in marriages.
Prayers are also made in the shrine of Lord Rama for freedom from enemy fears and to cultivate traits of humility.