Thozhuthur Nalla Mariamman Temple, Thiruvarur

Address

Thozhuthur Nalla Mariamman Temple, Thozhuthur Thiruvarur District – 612 804, Mobile: +91 – 94443 54461 / 94437 45732

Deity

Amman: Mariyamman

Introduction

Location: Thozhuthur Village, Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu
Administration: The temple is managed by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Charities Department of Tamil Nadu.
Age: The temple is believed to be over 1000 years old.
Distance:
- 2 km from Alathambadi
- 24 km from Thiruvarur
- 12 km from Thiruthuraipoondi
- 126 km from Trichy

Puranic Significance

The temple is steeped in mythological significance, particularly related to the story of Renukadevi, the wife of the sage Jamadagni. Here are the key elements of this legend:

Renukadevi’s Devotion: Renukadevi used her chastity to create pots from sand at the riverbank to fetch water for the rituals in her husband’s ashram. One day, while fetching water, she caught sight of a handsome Gandharva riding through the sky on his horse, and her admiration for his beauty broke her concentration, causing her pot to shatter.
Jamadagni’s Test: Muni Jamadagni realized what had happened and, suspecting her fidelity, ordered his son Parasurama to behead his mother. Despite his obedience, Parasurama was filled with grief at having killed his mother.
The Blessing: Pleased with Parasurama’s obedience—unlike his brothers who had refused to carry out the order—Jamadagni offered him a boon. Parasurama requested the revival of his mother, which Jamadagni granted. However, he left his wife behind.
Legacy of Mariamman: As Renukadevi continued her service by bringing water for pujas, she was given the name Mariamman, symbolizing her continued service to humanity by providing pure water. The name “Mari” in Tamil means rain. The Vellala community, known for their pottery, worships her as their community deity in Thozhuthur.

Beliefs

Devotees visit the Nalla Mariamman Temple with specific prayers and requests:

Marriage: Many seek the removal of obstacles in marriage efforts.
Fertility: Couples praying for children often visit the temple.
Education: Aspirations for higher education are also directed to the goddess.
Health: Individuals suffering from eye troubles that affect their appearance pray for healing, often using a flower called Nandiavattai as part of their offerings.
Offerings: Devotees frequently offer Mavilakku (a lamp made of rice flour and jaggery with ghee) and practice Alagu Kuthal (boring holes in the cheeks as a form of penance or offering).

Special Features

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mariyamman, who is venerated for her benevolence and protective nature.
Guardian deities present in the temple include:
- Kazhuvudayan with his consorts
- Periyachi
- Muniswarar
- Bommi
- Maduraiveeran with Vellayammal
- Kathavarayan
- Karuppazhagi
- Aryamala
- Thotiyathu Chinnan

Festivals

The temple hosts an 18-day festival starting from the Sunday following Chitra Poornima (April-May), culminating in a grand car festival that attracts many devotees.