Veerapandi Gowri Mariamman Temple – Theni

Address

Veerapandi Gowri Mariamman Temple – Theni

Virapandi, Theni district,

Tamil Nadu 625534

 Phone: +91- 99441 16258, 97893 42921.

Amman

Gowri Mariamman

Introduction

• Located in Veerapandi, Theni district, Tamil Nadu.
• Built in the 14th century by Pandya King Veerapandi.
• King Veerapandi is believed to have restored his eyesight through devotion to Gowmariamman and Kanneeswaramudaiyar.
• The temple is situated near the Mullai River, approximately 8 km from Theni bus stand.

Puranic Significance

• Constructed by King Veerapandi during his reign over Madurai.
• Historical inscriptions state that the king lost his eyesight and regained it through intense devotion, penance, and meditation on Goddess Gowmariamman and Lord Kanneeswaramudaiyar.
• The temple symbolizes the miraculous power of faith and devotion.

Beliefs

• Goddess Gowmariamman is depicted:
  • With a Udukkai (drum), sword, gadkam, and skull in her hands.
  • The Swayambu Ambica idol (self-manifested) is present before the main deity.
  • The Swayambu Ambica idol is only visible during abishekam.
• Known as Maruthuvachi (Lady Doctor), she is believed to cure diseases, including chronic and terminal illnesses.
• Devotees seek:
  • Ailment relief
  • Child blessings by offering bangles.
  • Safety and longevity of Mangal Sutras (sacred threads), particularly during Chithirai festival.

Special Features

• Unique Stone Post:
  • Represented as the consort (husband) of Goddess Ambica.
  • During the Chithirai festival, a neem tree post with three branches is placed near the deity and later shifted to the stone post.
• During Shivrathri:
  • The Goddess is dressed as Lord Shiva with a third eye, crescent moon, and tiger-skin cloth, carrying a trident and Udukkai.
  • Six special Shiva Pujas are conducted, which attract numerous devotees.
• Other Highlights:
  • The deity is placed under a four-hooded serpent.
  • Unique palanquin processions are carried out by women.
  • Devotees perform rituals like walking on fire pits and carrying fire pots during festivals.

Festivals

1. Chithirai Utsav (April-May): A grand 21-day celebration featuring rituals, fire-walking, and prayers.
2. Fridays of Aadi (July-August) and Thai (January-February): Special Pujas and rituals.
3. Purattasi Navarathri (September-October): Celebrations highlighting the power of Shakti.
4. Shivrathri (February-March): Six pujas and special darshan where the Goddess is dressed as Lord Shiva.

Century/Period

14th century

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE)

Nearest Bus Station

Veerapandi, Theni

Nearest Railway Station

Madurai

Nearest Airport

Madurai

Location on Map

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