Shri Mariamman Kovil Punnainallur, Thanjavur Overview

Shri Mariamman Kovil Punnainallur, located near Thanjavur in the state of Tamil Nadu, India, is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Mariamman. The temple has a rich history and is known for its unique architectural features, reflecting the Dravida style of temple architecture and the cultural heritage of the Chola Empire.

According to the Sthala Puranam, lore has it that before waging war with the demon Tanjan of Tanjore, Lord Shiva stationed the Ashta Saktis (eight powers) at each of the eight directions. The goddess stationed at the eastern direction is now revered as the presiding deity of the Punnainallur Mariamman Temple.

The goddess Mariamman, a manifestation of Shakti, was originally worshipped in the form of an anthill. It was only in the 18th century that a formal temple structure was built, and the temple has been maintained by the descendants of the royal family of Thanjavur.

Architectural Significance

The temple stands as an architectural exemplar, showcasing the true form of Dravida architecture. It is considered a representative of the cultural and artistic achievements of the Chola Empire and the Tamil civilization. The Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is often cited as a testimony to the brilliance of Chola achievements in various domains.

Legends and Devotion

The temple has a unique charm with legends intertwined with its existence. It is said that King Venkoji Maharaja Chatrapathi, a devotee of Mariamman, had a divine dream during a pilgrimage to Samayapuram. In the dream, Mariamman directed him to a forest of Punnai trees about three miles from Thanjavur. Acting on the dream, the king discovered an anthill, and over it, the Punnainallur Mariamman Temple was constructed.

Notably, the temple has been revered by Maratha rulers like Thulaja and Serfoji, who played a role in renovating and maintaining the sacred site.

Festivals and Rituals

The Punnainallur Mariamman Temple hosts various festivals and rituals. Fridays, especially during the Tamil month of Aadi, are considered special. Devotees, particularly women and children, throng to the temple on Sundays, considered the most auspicious days for worship.

The annual festivals include Brahmotsavam celebrated in Adi (July-August), Navarathri, Mahasivarathri, and the Chariot Festival that takes place on the last Sunday of Aavani (August-September). The temple's unique rituals include the Thailabishekam, performed once in five years for 48 days, during which the goddess is anointed with oil.

Devotee Beliefs and Offerings

Devotees visit the Punnainallur Mariamman Temple seeking relief from ailments, poverty, and sorrows. Mud replicas of different body parts are offered, symbolizing a plea for healing. The temple is renowned for its compassionate form of Mariamman, believed to cure physical ailments.

An intriguing aspect is that during the summer months, the idol of Mariamman is believed to sweat, and water is filled around the goddess's image to reduce the heat in the sanctum.

How to Reach

Punnainallur Mariamman Temple is situated in PunnaiNallur, approximately 20 km away from Tanjore. Visitors can reach the temple by bus from Tanjore or hire an auto or taxi. The nearby railway station is also located in Tanjore.