Punnainallur Mariamman Temple, Thanjavur

Address

Mariamman Kovil Street, Thanjavur district,

Tamil Nadu 613501

Amman

Mariamman

Introduction

The Punnainallur Mariamman Temple, located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is a renowned shrine dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, a manifestation of Shakti. It is celebrated for its Dravidian architectural style, representing the ideology of the Chola Empire and the Tamil civilization of Southern India.

Historical Significance: The goddess was originally worshipped in the form of an ant-hill (Puttru). In 1680, King Venkoji Maharaja Chatrapatti built the temple after a divine vision. The sacred image was shaped and consecrated by the saint Sadhasiva Brahmendra Swamy, who also installed a powerful Srichakra.
Architectural Features: The temple features a seven-tiered Rajagopuram, a holy tank, and three prakaras (enclosures). The Maha Mandapa, Narthana Mandapa, and other structures were developed by later kings, notably King Sarabhoji II.

Puranic Significance

Connection to Lord Shiva: The temple is associated with the legend of Lord Shiva waging war against the demon Tanjan Asuran. Before the battle, Shiva installed eight goddesses, one of whom became Punnainallur Mariamman in the east.
Divine Revelation: The goddess appeared in King Venkoji’s dream and guided him to the location of her idol in a forest of Punnai trees, which led to the construction of the temple.
Miracles: The daughter of Tulaja Raja regained her eyesight after worshipping the goddess, a testament to her divine grace.

Beliefs and Special Features

Healing Powers: The goddess is revered for curing physical ailments such as skin diseases, measles, and chickenpox. Devotees drink milk offered during daily poojas for relief.
Sweating Deity: The granite statue of Muthu Mariamman mysteriously sweats during the summer months, earning her the title “Muthu Mariamman” (Pearl Mariamman).
Peechchi Amman: A shrine for Peechchi Amman, believed to remove fears in children, is located within the temple.
Mud Replicas: Devotees offer mud replicas of body parts as a plea for healing.

Festivals

The temple celebrates several vibrant festivals that attract thousands of devotees:

Brahmotsavam (Adi–Avani: July–August): The grand annual festival includes a procession of the goddess in a decorated pearl palanquin.
Aadi Fridays: Fridays in the Tamil month of Aadi are especially significant, with huge crowds offering prayers.
Chariot Festival: Celebrated on the last Sunday of Aavani (August–September), the goddess is taken in a grand procession on a richly adorned chariot.
Theppam (Floating Festival): Held in Purattasi (September–October), a beautifully lit floating structure carrying the goddess moves across the temple tank, creating a celestial ambiance.
Navarathri: A nine-day celebration dedicated to the goddess.
Mahashivaratri: A significant festival that sees special poojas and rituals.