Rameswaram Nambunayaki Amman Temple

Address

Rameswaram Nambunayaki Amman Temple,

Rameswaram – 623526.

Amman

Nambunayaki

Introduction

Among the most visited temples in Rameswaram, the 600-year-old Sri Nambunayaki Amman Temple in Dhanushkodi holds a place of great significance. Located about 2 km from the renowned Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple, along NH-49, this ancient shrine is considered one of the oldest Hindu temples in the region.

Puranic Significance

According to legend, two sages named Pachima Duruvan and Dakshina Duruvan undertook intense penance near the present-day Nambunayaki Amman Temple. Pleased by their devotion, Goddess Parvadhavardini appeared before them in the form of Dakshina Kali and blessed them. Following this divine encounter, the rishis chose to remain at the site, dedicating their lives to serving people suffering from various ailments. It is still believed that these sages, though invisible to the human eye, continue to assist those who sincerely pray to the goddess for healing.

The temple’s significance also connects to a historical figure—a Sinhalese ruler named Sulodharan. During the period of Sinhalese influence in the region, the king is believed to have fallen gravely ill. In search of a cure, he came to the shrine and offered heartfelt prayers to Goddess Nambunayaki. Staying near the temple, he performed rituals and took holy dips in the sacred springs nearby. His devotion was answered, and he was miraculously cured by the grace of the goddess. Out of gratitude, he is said to have helped establish and expand the temple, creating facilities for other pilgrims who came seeking healing.

The sacred springs (theerthams) surrounding the Nambunayaki Amman Temple are believed to have powerful medicinal properties. These theerthams are revered as Sarvaroga Nivarana Theerthams—springs that can cure all ailments. Devotees believe that the turmeric prasadham offered at the temple has miraculous healing powers.

Many people visit the temple seeking relief from various personal struggles. Childless couples, those facing delays in marriage, and women abandoned by their husbands often fast on Fridays and pray to the goddess. Those suffering from depression or mental illnesses are known to stay near the temple, bathe in the sacred waters, and seek divine intervention for recovery.

A special spiritual highlight of the year is the Navaratri festival, during which Goddess Nambunayaki is worshipped in nine different forms of Shakti. On the ninth day, a grand alankaram (decoration) is performed, drawing large numbers of devotees. Rituals like abhishekam and offering new vastras (clothes) to the goddess are common devotional acts during this sacred celebration.

Special Features

The Nambunayaki Amman Temple is one of the most prominent temples dedicated to Goddess in the Rameswaram region. Goddess Nambunayaki is revered as the Kula Deivam (family deity) by many Maratha Brahmin families in the area, who often name their children in her honor. In fact, the name “Nambu” has become quite common in Rameswaram households, and it’s not unusual to find individuals with “Nambu” as part of their name.

The presiding deity, Goddess Sri Nambunayaki, is venerated as a powerful guardian deity and is uniquely positioned facing the southern direction—a significant orientation in South Indian temple tradition symbolizing protection.