Pariyur Kondathu Kaliamman Temple – Erode
Address
Pariyur Kondathu Kaliamman Temple Pariyur, Pariyur Rd, Gobichettipalayam, Erode district. Tamil Nadu 638313 Phone: +91-4285-222 010
Deity
Amman: Kaliamman (kondathukari)
Introduction
- Location: Kondathu Kaliamman Temple is situated at Pariyur near Gobichettipalayam in Tamil Nadu, India.
- Deity: The prime deity is Kaliamman, also referred to as Kondathukari.
- Age: The temple is approximately 1500 years old, with the current structure rebuilt in the mid-1950s.
- Environment: The temple is surrounded by a pleasant environment and is located near other temples, including Sri Amarapaneeswarar Temple, Sri Adinarayana Perumal Temple, and Sri Angalamman Temple.
Puranic Significance
- Historical Background: The temple’s exact date of establishment is unknown, but it has historical roots dating back centuries. It was previously known as Azhagapuri or Parapuri.
- King Vēl Pāri: The name “Pariyur” is derived from “Pari” meaning ‘place ruled by Pari,’ referring to King Vēl Pāri, a notable figure in Tamil literature and considered a great patron.
- Goddess Kali: Arulmigu Kondathu Kaliamman is viewed as a powerful Goddess responsible for the prosperity of Pari’s kingdom. She is depicted with Rudra on her head, with her crown represented as flames.
- Fire Walking Ritual: Devotees walk on a fire pit, approximately forty feet long, as a significant ritual during festivals. The event attracts large crowds and is marked by a deep sense of faith among participants.
Beliefs
- Protection: Sri Kondathu Kaliamman is believed to protect devotees from magic spells and bless them with children, happy marriages, and prosperity.
- Rituals: Devotees engage in rituals such as offering sari to the Goddess, performing Laksharchana (chanting her name one lakh times), and conducting 1008 conch abhishek.
- Muniappaswami: A significant deity in the temple who is worshipped for child blessings and curing prolonged diseases. His grace is sought through specific rituals.
Special Features
- Architecture: The temple features a five-storey main Gopuram at the south corner, with an outer mandapam made of black marble and intricately carved pillars.
- Deity Representation: The Goddess Kaliamman faces north, wears a crown of fire, and is depicted stamping a demon under her feet.
- Colossal Statues: The temple houses a large statue of Sri Maha Muniappan, considered a protector against fear and evil.
- Other Deities: Shrines for Siddhi Vinayagar, Sri Pon Kaliamman, Kannimar, and other deities, including guardian deities and various forms of Goddesses.
Festivals
- Major Festivals:
- Margazhi Car Festival: A five-day festival during December-January, featuring fire walking and drawing massive crowds.
- Aadi Friday Festival: Celebrated on all Fridays during July-August.
- Thai Fridays: Festivals on all Fridays in January-February.
- Navarathri: Special pujas conducted in September-October.
- Other Celebrations: Festivals celebrated during Karthikai (November-December), Pongal, Deepavali, and Tamil and English New Year days.
Century/Period/Age
1500 Years old
Managed By
Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HRCE)
Nearest Bus Station
Pariyur
Nearest Railway Station
Erode
Nearest Airport
Coimbatore