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{{Short description|Hindu goddess of rain}}
{{Short description|Hindu goddess of weather}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2020}}
{{Infobox deity<!--Wikipedia:WikiProject Hindu mythology-->
{{Infobox deity<!--Bharatpedia:WikiProject Hindu mythology-->
| type = Hindu
| type = Hindu
| image =
| image = Mariamman.jpg
| caption = Goddess Mariamman/ Goddess Mariathal
| caption = Painting of Mariamman, Tamil Nadu, circa 19 CE
| name = Mariamman
| name = Mariamman
| abode =  
| abode = [[Earth]]
| weapon = [[Trident]], [[Sword]]
| weapon = [[Trident]], [[Sword]], [[noose]]
| mount = [[Lion]]
| mount = [[Lion]]
| script_name =  
| adherents = Primarily rural<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Bremner |first1=Lindsay |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GzByEAAAQBAJ&dq=mariamman+village+goddess+fertility+rain&pg=PT338 |title=Monsoon as Method: Assembling Monsoonal Multiplicities |last2=Cullen |first2=Beth |last3=Geros |first3=Christina Leigh |last4=Bhat |first4=Harshavardhan |last5=Powis |first5=Anthony |date=25 May 2022 |publisher=Actar D, Inc. |isbn=9781638408048 |via=Google Books}}</ref> [[Hinduism in Tamil Nadu|Tamil Hindus]], South Indian Hindus
| adherents = [[Hinduism in Tamil Nadu|Tamil Hindus]]
| deity_of = Goddess of Weather, Fertility,<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Bhattacharya |first1=Jayati |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=nLq2BgAAQBAJ&dq=mariamman+goddess+fertility+rain&pg=PA159 |title=Indian and Chinese Immigrant Communities: Comparative Perspectives |last2=Kripalani |first2=Coonoor |date=1 March 2015 |publisher=Anthem Press |isbn=9781783083626 |via=Google Books}}</ref> and Health
| deity_of = Goddess of [[Rain]]
| venerated_in = [[South India]]
| venerated_in = [[South India]]
| other_names = Mariamma, Mariamman, Maariatha, Mari
| other_names = Renuga devi, Renuka, Mariamma, Mariamman, MuthuMariamman, Mariatha, Mari, Amman, Amma, Ambika, [[Karumariamman]], Karumari, Parashakti, adi Parasakthi, Pidari
| god_of =
| temples = [[Samayapuram Mariamman]], [[Punnainallur Mariamman]], [[Tiruverkadu Devi Karumariamman Temple]], Dindigul Kottai Mariamman
| temples = [[Samayapuram Mariamman]], [[Punnainallur Mariamman]], [[Tiruverkadu Devi Karumariamman Temple]]
| affiliation = [[Devi]], [[Shakti]], [[Mahadevi]], [[Durga]], [[Kali]], [[Parvati]], [[Shitala]], [[Draupadi]], [[Rukmini]], [[Sita]], [[Renuka]], [[Shaktism]], [[Pidari]]
| affiliation =  
| member_of = [[Mahadevi]]
| member_of =  
| festivals = [[Navaratri]], Ādi Thiruviḻa
| symbols = neem trees/leaves, [[trident]], [[kumkum]], [[cobras]]
| animals = [[Snake]], [[Lion]]
}}
}}
{{Hinduism}}
'''Mariamman''', often abbreviated to '''Amman''' ({{langx|ta|மாரியம்மன்}}), is a [[Hindu]] Tamil folk religion [[List of rain deities|goddess of weather]], predominantly venerated in the rural areas of [[South India]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=30 September 2020 |title=Mariamman – the Village Goddess who travelled |url=https://www.storytrails.in/blog/mariamman-the-village-goddess-who-travelled/ |access-date=7 August 2021 |website=Storytrails}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Neuenhofer |first=Christa |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7OTMoAEACAAJ |title=Ayyanar and Mariamman, Folk Deities in South India |date=27 November 2012 |publisher=Blurb, Incorporated |isbn=978-1-4579-9010-6 |language=en}}</ref> Her festivals are held during the late summer/early autumn season of Ādi throughout [[Tamil Nadu]] and the [[Deccan]] region, the largest being the ''Ādi Thiruviḻa''. Her worship mainly focuses on bringing rains and curing such serious diseases as [[cholera]], [[smallpox]], and [[chicken pox]].


'''Mariamman''' is a Hindu goddess of rain, predominant in the rural areas of [[South India]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-09-30|title=Mariamman – the Village Goddess who travelled|url=https://www.storytrails.in/blog/mariamman-the-village-goddess-who-travelled/|access-date=2021-08-07|website=Storytrails}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|last=Neuenhofer|first=Christa|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7OTMoAEACAAJ&newbks=0&hl=en|title=Ayyanar and Mariamman, Folk Deities in South India|date=2012-11-27|publisher=Blurb, Incorporated|isbn=978-1-4579-9010-6|language=en}}</ref> Her festivals are held during the late summer/early autumn season of "Aadi" throughout the [[Tamil Nadu]] and Deccan region, the largest being ''Aadi Thiruvizha''. Her worship mainly focuses on bringing rains and curing diseases like cholera, smallpox, and chicken pox. Maariamman is worshipped in accordance with the local traditions as ''Pidari'' or the ''Gramadevatai.'' She is considered as the protector (Kaval Deivam) by many people residing in South India.
Mariamman is worshipped in accordance with local traditions such as [[Pidari]], [[Karumariamman]]<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOLpINsY5ZE |title=Documentary - Grama Devatas - a prequel to Agastyamuni series |date=2025-10-31 |last=PremKV |access-date=2026-03-29 |via=YouTube}}</ref>, [[Renuka]], [[Draupadi]] or the [[Grāmadevatā|Gramadevatai]]. She is considered as a guardian deity (kaval deivam) by many South Indian village dwellers. She is also worshipped in Karnataka as Marikambe, who is a manifestation of Adi-Parashakti or [[Mahadevi]].


==Origin==
== Origin ==
[[File:Tamil nadu, epoca cola, tridente con mariyammai, dea del vaiolo, x sec..JPG|thumbnail|right|170px| Mariamman embedded in a trident, 1st century, [[Chola]] period, Tamil Nadu, India]]
[[File:Tamil nadu, epoca cola, tridente con mariyammai, dea del vaiolo, x sec..JPG|thumbnail|right|170px| Mariamman embedded in a trident, 1st century, [[Chola]] period, Tamil Nadu, India]]


Mariamman's worship probably originated in pre-Vedic India. She is the main [[Tamil people|Tamil]] mother goddess, predominant in the rural areas of [[South India]]. Māri was later associated with Hindu goddesses like [[Parvati]],<ref>"ஆயி உமையானவளே ஆதிசிவன் தேவியரே" (Oh Mother Uma, Consort of Siva!) - Mariamman Thalattu, Goddess Mari Prayer.</ref> [[Kali]] and [[Durga]]<ref name="Stot">"The truthful Kali who guarded the homesteads sat with her, The Kali sat together with Durga continuously with her". [http://stotrarathna.blogspot.com/2009/07/mariamman-thalattu-tamil.html Mariamman Lullaby]</ref> as well as with her North Indian counterpart [[Shitala|Shitala Devi]] and Eastern Indian counterpart Olai Chandi and western Indian counterpart of Mogal mata.
Mariamman's worship originated in the traditions of [[Dravidian folk religion]].<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ZeRtAAAAMAAJ&q=mariamman+Dravidian+religion |title=Proceedings |date=1980 |publisher=Indian History Congress |pages=100 |language=en}}</ref> She is the main [[Tamil people|Tamil]] mother goddess, predominantly venerated in the rural areas of [[South India]]. Mariamman has been associated with Hindu goddesses such as [[Parvati]],<ref>"ஆயி உமையானவளே ஆதிசிவன் தேவியரே" (Oh Mother Uma, Consort of Siva!) – Mariamman Thalattu, Goddess Mari Prayer.</ref> [[Kali]], [[Durga]],<ref name="Stot">"The truthful Kali who guarded the homesteads sat with her, The Kali sat together with Durga continuously with her". [http://stotrarathna.blogspot.com/2009/07/mariamman-thalattu-tamil.html Mariamman Lullaby]</ref> [[Rukmini]],<ref>{{Cite book |last=Viraraghavacharya |first=T. K. T. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=sZLXAAAAMAAJ&q=Rukmini+amman |title=History of Tirupati: The Thiruvengadam Temple |date=1997 |publisher=Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams |pages=486 |language=en}}</ref> [[Sita]],<ref>{{Cite book |last=Ricci |first=Ronit |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tYK0DwAAQBAJ&dq=Sita+amman&pg=PA151 |title=Banishment and Belonging: Exile and Diaspora in Sarandib, Lanka and Ceylon |date=21 November 2019 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-1-108-48027-7 |pages=151 |language=en}}</ref> [[Draupadi]],<ref>{{Cite book |last=Harvey |first=Graham |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wrTsCwAAQBAJ&dq=Draupadi+amman&pg=PT208 |title=Religions in Focus: New Approaches to Tradition and Contemporary Practices |date=8 April 2016 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-134-93690-8 |language=en}}</ref> as well as with her northern Indian counterpart [[Shitala]], her eastern Indian counterpart, Olai Chandi; and her western Indian counterpart of Mogal mata.
 
The word Mari (pronunciation: /mɒri/) has a Sangam Tamil origin meaning "Rain" and the Tamil word Amman means "Mother". She was worshipped by the ancient Tamils as the bringer of rain and thus also the bringer of prosperity, since the abundance of their crops was dependent largely upon adequate rainfall. The cult of the mother goddess is treated as an indication of a society which venerated femininity. The temples of the Sangam days, mainly of Madurai, seem to have had priestesses to the deity, which also appear predominantly as goddesses.<ref>{{cite book|last=Manickam|first=Valliappa Subramaniam|title=A glimpse of Tamilology|year=1968|publisher=Academy of Tamil Scholars of Tamil Nadu|pages=75|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bIQOAAAAYAAJ&q=sangam+priestess&dq=sangam+priestess}}</ref> In the Sangam literature, there is an elaborate description of the rites performed by the [[Kuravar|Kurava]] priestess in the shrine Palamutircholai.<ref>{{cite book|last=Lal|first=Mohan|title=The Encyclopaedia Of Indian Literature Volume Five (Sasay To Zorgot), Volume 5|year=2006|publisher=Sahitya Akademi|isbn=8126012218|pages=4396}}</ref>


==Worship==
The word Mari (pronunciation: /mɒri/) has the Sangam Tamil origin meaning "Rain", and the Dravidian root term Amman means "Mother". She was worshipped by the ancient Tamil as the bringer of rain and also the bringer of prosperity, since the abundance of their crops was dependent largely upon adequate rainfall. The cult of the mother goddess is treated as an indication of a society that venerated femininity. The temples of the Sangam days, mainly of Madurai, seem to have had priestesses to the deity, which also appear predominantly as goddesses.<ref>{{cite book |last=Manickam |first=Valliappa Subramaniam |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bIQOAAAAYAAJ&q=sangam+priestess |title=A glimpse of Tamilology |publisher=Academy of Tamil Scholars of Tamil Nadu |year=1968 |pages=75}}</ref> In [[Sangam literature]], there is an elaborate description of the rites performed by the [[Kuravar]] priestesses in the shrine Palamutircholai.<ref>{{cite book |last=Lal |first=Mohan |title=The Encyclopaedia Of Indian Literature (Volume Five (Sasay To Zorgot), Volume 5 |publisher=Sahitya Akademi |year=2006 |isbn=8126012218 |pages=4396}}</ref>
{{Hinduism}}
[[File:Procession de Mariamman.jpg|thumb|Procession of Mariamman]]
[[File:Mariamman.jpg|thumb|Painting of Mariamman, c. 1820]]


The worshiping methods are often accompanied by various kinds of folk dancing.<ref>M. K. V. Narayan, ''Exploring the Hindu Mind: Cultural Reflection and Symbolism'', Readworthy, 2009, p. 93</ref> Offerings such as [[pongal (dish)|pongal]] and [[koozh]] that are cooked using earthen pots are also made during the festive season. Rituals such as fire walking and mouth or nose piercing are also practised.
== Iconography ==
Mariamman is usually pictured as a beautiful young woman with a red-hued face, wearing a red dress. Sometimes she is portrayed with many arms—representing her many powers—but in most representations she has only two or four. Also described to be wearing snakes as jewelry.


At the [[Samayapuram Mariamman Temple]] in [[Samayapuram]], the Hindu system of worship is still seen today for the worship of Mariyamman, which involves a ten-day festival organized by temple authorities during the second week in April. Some continue to use an old village custom of worship by offering chickens and goats to the deity, though the animals are no longer sacrificed but sold after being offered. The main worship of the goddess occurs on the road a mile or two from the temple.  A hurried walk and dance carry hundreds of thousands of worshippers along the road to the temple. Many in the crowd have fasted, shaved their heads, and wear bright yellow clothes which are sacred to the goddess. Women and children may carry a pot on their heads decorated with the goddess's favourite leaves, of the margosa tree. Young men and women, carrying similar pots, are followed by drummers and dance more wildly. Larger men and women carry pots of charcoal fire. Some put themselves through a special tribulation of having one of the sacred weapons, dagger, trident, or spear, inserted through their cheeks or tongues.<ref>Younger, Paul. "Journal of the American Academy of Religion." A Temple Festival of Māriyamman (1980): 493-513. ATLA Religion Database. Web. 28 Sept. 2014.</ref> Through this worship each individual achieves self-realization and awareness of others through samsara and moksha. In this self-realization a bonding with the goddess occurs, which is the underlining reason for the worship.
Mariamman is generally portrayed in the sitting or standing position with a five-headed serpent over her head, often holding a [[trident]] ([[trisula]]) in one hand and a bowl ([[kapala]]) in the other. One of her hands may display a [[mudra]], usually the [[abhayamudra|abhaya]] mudra, to ward off fear, she'll also be seen with a [[damru]] In one hand which tends to have a serpent wrapped around it. She may be represented with two demeanours—one displaying her pleasant nature, and the other her terrifying aspect, with fangs and a wild mane of hair.


=== Mulaikottu ===
== Legends ==
Mulaikottu is a village festival celebrated in southern Tamil Nadu, particularly in villages of [[Madurai district|Madurai]], [[Sivaganga district|Sivagangai]], [[Dindigul district|Dindugul]], [[Ramanathapuram district|Ramanathapuram]], [[Thoothukudi district|Thoothukudi]] and [[Tirunelveli district|Thirunelveli]] districts.  By doing so they believe that they can get her blessing and sufficient rain for better cultivation. This festival is generally celebrated in between Any Tamil month of panguni to Purattasi. The festival lasts for 11 days. ( Sunday of first week to Wednesday of second week )
[[File:Erode Marriamman Ther.jpg|upright|thumb|right|[[Erode]] Mariamman Ther Thiruvizha]]
 
On the auspicious beginning of the village festival, a village meeting will be convened to sort out the best suitable date for the celebration of Mulaikottu. Before fixing any date, the ''pradhan'' and secretary of the village gather some information from the villagers regarding any marriage or anyone suffering from chicken pox etc. If anyone is affected by chicken pox, any sudden death occurred or someone's marriage is taking place, under these circumstances the date of mulaikottu will be either postponed or cancelled according to the public opinion at the meeting. The celebration begins with collection of nine different types of grain seeds from every house, called ''thandal'' in Tamil. The Thandal will held in Sunday of Valarpirai. The following Tuesday is the second day of thandal called ''Pari parapputhal''. Next Tuesday, the main function is held on the day called ''mulaikottu''. On the next day of thandal, the temple committee distribute the grains to every house for setting up of pari.
 
The pari is a clay pot with a wide mouth and narrow base with a hole in the bottom. This utensil is specially made for this purpose and sold at the market. The villagers visit the market and purchase number of paris as they wanted to setup in their home.
 
The first step to set them up is to clean paris and their home the second day of thandal. People used to collect goat dung and some hay. The hay is used to block the hole of the pari. A layer of goat dung is spread over the hay and watered to make the dung wet. This is the procedure of setting up up of pari.


As a next step to this, the received nine type of grains from the temple committee, is smoothly spread over the goat dung on the pari. Following this, a pooja will be arranged for praying the goddess to make the pari a successful one. Every house may have more than two paries. These paries taken into a dark and isolated room in their house. For the next seven days they have to grow the seedlings into a plant. Usage of loudspeaker and crackers are completely banned during this period. During evening, all villagers assemble in front of the Mariamman temple and sing folk songs known as ''mari pattu'' and dance folk dances such as ''mulaikottu'' ( similar to kummi), Amman oyil. It is followed everyday from thandal Sunday (First day) to next Sunday (eighth day). The ninth day called ''thangal'', means camping. On this day the temple is closed and folk poojas and dances are prohibited. The Amman karagam is made in village water body and the person who fasts in those 10 days is called ''Ammadi'' (The person who depicted as Amman). The amandi takes the karagam and gave to temple. All ''paris'' are brought into the Amman temple from the houses on the tenth day of thandal. The paris remain in the Amman temple for one night and on the next day (the last day, eleventh day, Wednesday), and after a pooja, the paries will be issued back to their respective member. The Ammadi again takes karagam and the ''mulaiparis'' are also taken from the temple. Finally, the amman Karagam and mulaiparis are submerged into the village pond. It is also celebrated in Madurai amman temple on the Tamil month of Aadi.
The origin of the goddess [[Mariamman]] in terms of a consistent and coherent legend has not been standardized. Several myths of the mother goddess exist in several regional traditions that are spread orally throughout [[South India]].


==Legend==
According to a regional Hindu legend, there was once a beautiful woman named Nagavalli, wife to a [[rishi]] named Piruhu. When the rishi was away, the [[Trimurti]], the deities of [[Brahma]], [[Vishnu]], and [[Shiva]], visited her, seeking to decide for themselves if she was truly as beautiful and virtuous as she was supposed to be. Nagavalli, not recognising them, and resenting their intrusion, turned them into children with her powers. The deities were infuriated and cursed her, causing her face to become disfigured with smallpox. When Piruhu returned, he drove her away, informing her that she would be born on earth, causing her affliction to human beings as well.<ref name="auto">{{Cite book |last=Narayan |first=M. K. V. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ewRfp4qpvt4C&dq=mariamman+shakti&pg=PA76 |title=Flipside of Hindu Symbolism: Sociological and Scientific Linkages in Hinduism |date=April 2007 |publisher=Fultus Corporation |isbn=978-1-59682-117-0 |pages=76 |language=en}}</ref>
[[File:Erode Marriamman Ther.jpg|upright|thumb|right|[[Erode]] Mariamman Ther Thiruvizha]]


One story about the origin of Goddess Mariamman is found in a folktale (spread orally through [[South India]]), where [[Draupadi]], the wife of Pandavas, is said to be an incarnation of Goddess [[Shakti]]. This was known to no one but [[Sri Krishna]]. Draupadi, despite being Goddess Shakti, lived like a normal woman, suppressing her supernatural powers. While they were in exile, when the Pandavas were asleep at night, she would travel to the villages of Vanniyar in the form of a fierce looking Goddess. Vanniyars would offer her prayers and barley, which pleased her. In time she became famous as Mariamman (the mother of rain and curing diseases), and became popular in the Vanniyar villages. In Northern India, [[Shitala|Sheetla Devi]] was worshipped in a similar way, predominantly by the Rajput/Kshatriya community. Sheetla Devi has a similar background story and plays a similar role in protecting villages from diseases.
According to the [[Vanniyar]] community, an agrarian class, [[Draupadi]], the common wife of the [[Pandava]]s, is said to be an incarnation of the goddess [[Shakti]]. Draupadi, despite being Shakti, lived like a normal woman, suppressing her supernatural powers. While they were in exile, when the Pandavas were asleep at night, she would travel to the villages of Vanniyar in the form of a fierce looking Goddess. Vanniyars would offer her prayers and barley, which pleased her. In time, she would be called Mariamman (the mother of rain and curing diseases), and became popular in the Vanniyar villages.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Kottayam) |first=Dr Jyothi Susan Abraham (Assistant Professor, Baselius College, Kottayam) Dr Kavitha Gopalakrishnan (Assistant Professor, Baselius College, Kottayam) Ms Meera Elizabeth James (Assistant Professor, Baselius College |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zSpeEAAAQBAJ&dq=mariamman+draupadi&pg=PA23 |title=Pandemic Reverberations and Altered Lives |date=11 February 2022 |publisher=Co-Text Publishers |isbn=978-81-952253-4-7 |pages=23 |language=en}}</ref>


The Tamil word 'Muthu' means pearl. In the ancient usage of the language 'Muthu Maari' appears to have been a poetic metaphor for raindrops, which were equated with precious pearls bestowed as the gifts of the Nature goddess.  Maariamman was also called Muthu Maariamman, which meant the goddess who gives prosperous rain. From a religious perspective that survived in Mediaeval Europe as the equally poetic [[doctrine of signatures]] the pearls of rain may have been thought to heal the pearl-like boils that occur during [[chickenpox]].{{citation needed|date=June 2013}}
According to the narrative of the higher [[Varna (Hinduism)|varnas]], there was once a [[Paraiyar|pariah]] boy who impersonated a [[Brahmin]] suitor in order to marry a Brahmin girl. This lie is discovered by the girl when she discerns the jargon and non-vegetarian habits of her in-laws. In order to ritually purify herself from the pollution of being married to a low-born pariah, the girl [[Sati (practice)|self-immolates]]. This Brahmin girl is deified and named as Mariamman, and becomes the goddess of the pariahs.<ref name="auto"/>


Local goddesses such as Mariamman who were believed to protect villages and their lands irrespective of the different castes of their worshippers have always been an important part of the religious landscape of South India. However, we can note periods of special significance. The eclecticism of the [[Vijayanagara Empire|Vijayanagar]] period (1336–1565) encouraged folk religion, which became increasingly important as it influenced the more literate forms of religion. In the last two centuries there has been a rebirth of Tamil self-consciousness (see Devotion to Murugan). In the middle of the 20th century, deities such as Mariamman became linked to the "great tradition" as the strata of society that worshipped the goddess were integrated into the larger social order.
In another version, Mariamman was once a woman named Vasuki who was the wife of Thiruvalluvar a tamil poet, and who was an outcast. She caught smallpox and went begging house to house for food, fanning herself with neem leaves to keep flies away. Eventually she recovered and is then worshipped as Mariamman, goddess of smallpox.


==Iconography==
The most popular narrative of Mariamman, has to do with the story of Renuka. She was once a women named Renuka, wife to sage Jamadagni and mother to Parasurama the sixth avatar of Vishnu. Renuka lost her powers after being attracted to a scene by the lake, when her husband Jamadagni found out he became furious. He sent his son Parasurama to kill Renuka. Renuka ran for her life and took shelter in a nearby village by a low-caste women, but when Parasurama found her, he decapitated Renuka and the low-caste women. After begging his father to let him bring back his mother and the women, Parasurama accidentally swapped their heads. Renuka's head was on the low-caste women's body and the low-caste women's head on Renuka's body. after this she became Mariamman "the changed mother".<ref>{{Cite web |title=What is the Story of Mariamman? |url=https://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/what-is-the-story-of-mariamman/ |access-date=10 February 2026 |website=www.exoticindiaart.com |language=en}}</ref>
Māri is usually pictured as a beautiful young woman with a red-hued face, wearing a red dress. Sometimes she is portrayed with many arms—representing her many powers—but in most representations she has only two or four.


Māri is generally portrayed in the sitting or standing position, often holding a [[trident]] ([[trisula]]) in one hand and a bowl ([[kapala]]) in the other. One of her hands may display a [[mudra]], usually the [[abhayamudra|abhaya]] mudra, to ward off fear. She may be represented with two demeanours—one displaying her pleasant nature, and the other her terrifying aspect, with fangs and a wild mane of hair.
In northern India, [[Shitala]] is worshipped in a similar way, predominantly by the Rajput/Kshatriya community. Shitala has a legend and plays a similar role in protecting villages from diseases.


==Goddess of medicine==
== Roles ==
Mariamman cures all so-called "heat-based" [[disease]]s like [[Smallpox|pox]] and [[rash]]es. During the summer months in South India (March to June), people walk miles carrying pots of water mixed with [[turmeric]] and [[neem]] leaves to ward off illnesses like the [[measles]] and [[chicken pox]].{{Why?|date=August 2010}} In this way the goddess Māri is very similar to the North Indian goddess [[Shitala]]devi.
=== Goddess of medicine ===
Mariamman is purported to cure all so-called "heat-based" [[disease]]s. During the summer months in South India (March to June), people walk miles carrying pots of water mixed with [[turmeric]] and [[neem]] leaves to ward off such illnesses as [[measles]] and [[chicken pox]], which were believed to spread more in that season.


==Fertility goddess==
=== Fertility goddess ===
Devotees also pray to Mariamman for familial welfare such as fertility, healthy progeny or a good spouse. The most favoured offering is "[[Pongal (dish)|pongal]]", a mix of [[rice]] and [[green gram]], cooked mostly in the [[temple]] complex, or shrine itself, in [[terracotta]] pots using firewood.
Devotees also pray to Mariamman for familial welfare such as fertility, healthy progeny or a good spouse. The most favoured offering is "[[Pongal (dish)|pongal]]", a mix of [[rice]] and [[green gram]], cooked mostly in the [[temple]] complex, or shrine itself, in [[terracotta]] pots using firewood.


Some festivals in honour of the goddess Māri involve night-time processions of devotees carrying oil lamps.{{Why?|date=July 2010}} Mariamman is the family deity for many in the [[Thanjavur district]] of Tamil Nadu. It is a custom initially to worship the family deity on occasions such as weddings. The worship of a 'family deity' ([[kuladevata]]), considered most important in any Hindu festival, continues down the generations, providing a clue to the family's origin, since the family deities are usually located within the vicinity of the village to which the family originally belonged.
Some festivals in honour of the goddess Mariamman involve night-time processions of devotees carrying oil lamps.{{Why?|date=July 2010}} Mariamman is the family deity for many in the [[Thanjavur district]] of Tamil Nadu. It is a custom initially to worship the family deity on occasions such as weddings. The worship of a 'family deity' ([[kuladevata]]), considered most important in any Hindu festival, continues down the generations, providing a clue to the family's origin, since the family deities are usually located within the vicinity of the village to which the family originally belonged.


==Temples==
== Worship ==
Most temples to Mariamman are simple village [[shrine]]s, where both male and female priests perform sacred rituals. In many rural shrines, the goddess is represented by a [[granite]] stone with a sharp tip, like a [[spear]] head. This stone is often adorned with garlands made of [[lime (fruit)|lime]]s and with red flowers. These shrines often have an [[anthill]] that could be the resting place of a [[cobra (snake)|cobra]]. Milk and [[Egg (food)|eggs]] are offered to propitiate the snake.
{{Cleanup rewrite|date=September 2022}}[[File:Procession de Mariamman.jpg|thumb|Procession of Mariamman]]The worshipping methods are often accompanied by various kinds of folk dancing.<ref>M. K. V. Narayan, ''Exploring the Hindu Mind: Cultural Reflection and Symbolism'', Readworthy, 2009, p. 93</ref> Offerings such as [[pongal (dish)|pongal]] and [[koozh]] that are cooked using earthen pots are also made during the festive season. Rituals such as fire walking and mouth or nose piercing are also practised.


Some temples have attained sufficient popularity for [[Brahmins]] to officiate at them. For example, the [[Samayapuram Mariamman Temple|Samayapuram Mariamman]] near the shore of river [[Cauvery]] in the northern outskirts of [[Trichy]], maintains a rich agamic tradition and all rituals are performed by [[Tamil Brahmin#Gurukkal|Gurukkals]].
At the [[Samayapuram Mariamman Temple]] in [[Samayapuram]], the Hindu system of worship is still seen today for the worship of Mariyamman, which involves a ten-day festival organized by temple authorities during the second week in April. Some continue to use an old village custom of worship by offering chickens and goats to the deity, though the animals are no longer sacrificed but sold after being offered. The main worship of the goddess occurs on the road a mile or two from the temple. A hurried walk and dance carry hundreds of thousands of worshippers along the road to the temple. Many in the crowd have fasted, shaved their heads, and wear bright yellow clothes which are sacred to the goddess. Women and children may carry a pot on their heads decorated with the goddess's favourite leaves, of the margosa tree. Young men and women, carrying similar pots, are followed by drummers and dance more wildly. Larger men and women carry pots of charcoal fire. Some put themselves through a special tribulation of having one of the sacred weapons, dagger, trident, or spear, inserted through their cheeks or tongues.<ref>Younger, Paul. "Journal of the American Academy of Religion." A Temple Festival of Māriyamman (1980): 493–513. ATLA Religion Database. Web. 28 September 2014.</ref> Through this worship each individual achieves self-realization and awareness of others through samsara and moksha. In this self-realization a bonding with the goddess occurs, which is the underlining reason for the worship.


[[Marikamba Temple, Sirsi]] It is located in [[Sirsi, Karnataka|Sirsi]], Karnataka State of India
=== Mulaikottu ===
 
Mulaikottu is a village festival celebrated in southern Tamil Nadu, particularly in villages of [[Madurai district|Madurai]], [[Sivaganga district|Sivagangai]], [[Dindigul district|Dindugul]], [[Ramanathapuram district|Ramanathapuram]], [[Thoothukudi district|Thoothukudi]] and [[Tirunelveli district|Thirunelveli]] districts. By doing so they believe that they can get her blessing and sufficient rain for better cultivation. This festival is generally celebrated in between any Tamil month of panguni to Purattasi. The festival lasts for 11 days. (Sunday of first week to Wednesday of second week).
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">
File:Marikamba TempleinSirsi.jpg|Marikamba Temple, Sirsi
File:Marikambatemple.jpg|Marikamba Temple Sirsi
</gallery>


The temple has very special paintings of murals in [[Kaavi art]], an art form which was popular in the coastal Konkan region of Karnataka. In this art form, now extinct, the top plastered layer of the mural was first dyed with a red pigment, which when removed revealed a lower white layer of plaster over which the murals were created It is said that the first Marikamba Devi idol was crafted in kortagere.
On the auspicious beginning of the village festival, a village meeting will be convened to sort out the best suitable date for the celebration of Mulaikottu. Before fixing any date, the ''pradhana'' and secretary of the village gather some information from the villagers regarding any marriage or anyone suffering from chicken pox etc. If anyone is affected by chicken pox, any sudden death occurred or someone's marriage is taking place, under these circumstances the date of mulaikottu will be either postponed or cancelled according to the public opinion at the meeting. The celebration begins with collection of nine different types of grain seeds from every house, called ''thandal'' in Tamil. The Thandal will held in Sunday of Valarpirai. The following Tuesday is the second day of thandal called ''Pari parapputhal''. Next Tuesday, the main function is held on the day called ''mulaikottu''. On the next day of thandal, the temple committee distribute the grains to every house for setting up of pari.


The Sirsi Marikamba jaatre (chariot procession) of the deity is held every alternate year in the month of March and taken through the town. It is attended by a very large number of devotees. It is said to be the most famous and biggest fair (jaatre) of the state of Karnataka. Devotees from all around the state participate in this enormous event indulging themselves in the procession. Amusements for children, circuses, variety of shops, dramas and plays and many such things are set up for the people. It depicts the story of the goddess killing mahishasura.
The pari is a clay pot with a wide mouth and narrow base with a hole in the bottom. This utensil is specially made for this purpose and sold at the market. The villagers visit the market and purchase number of paris as they wanted to set up in their home.


Punainallur, near [[Thanjavur]] (Tanjore), is the location of another famous Māri temple. Legend says that Mariamman appeared to the King Venkoji Maharaja Chatrapati (1676–1688) of Tanjore in his dreams and told him she was in a forest of Punna trees three miles distant from Tanjore. The King rushed to the spot and recovered an [[Cult image|idol]] from the jungle. On the king's orders a temple was constructed there, the idol installed, and the place was called Punnainallur. Hence the deity of this temple is known as Punnainallur Mariamman. Mud replicas of different parts of the human body are placed in the temple as offerings by devotees pleading for cure. It is said that the daughter of Tulaja Raja (1729–35) of Tanjore, who lost her eyesight due to illness, regained it after worshipping at this temple. Shri Sadasiva Brahmendra is said to have made the Moola Murthy of the Goddess Maariamman from the mud from the ant-hill where snakes had resided.
The first step to set them up is to clean paris and their home the second day of thandal. People used to collect goat dung and some hay. The hay is used to block the hole of the pari. A layer of goat dung is spread over the hay and watered to make the dung wet. This is the procedure of setting up of pari.


[[Salem, Tamil Nadu|Salem]] Kottai Sri Periya Mariamman temple which is located in the heart of the city, the Aadi festival celebrated for 22 days.
As a next step to this, the received nine type of grains from the temple committee, is smoothly spread over the goat dung on the pari. Following this, a pooja will be arranged for praying the goddess to make the pari a successful one. Every house may have more than two paries. These paries taken into a dark and isolated room in their house. For the next seven days they have to grow the seedlings into a plant. Usage of loudspeaker and crackers are completely banned during this period. During evening, all villagers assemble in front of the Mariamman temple and sing folk songs known as ''mari pattu'' and dance folk dances such as ''mulaikottu'' ( similar to kummi), Amman oyil. It is followed everyday from thandal Sunday (First day) to next Sunday (eighth day). The ninth day called ''thangal'', means camping. On this day the temple is closed and folk poojas and dances are prohibited. The Amman karagam is made in village water body and the person who fasts in those 10 days is called ''Ammadi'' (The person who depicted as Amman). The amandi takes the karagam and gave to temple. All ''paris'' are brought into the Amman temple from the houses on the tenth day of thandal. The paris remain in the Amman temple for one night and on the next day (the last day, eleventh day, Wednesday), and after a pooja, the paries will be issued back to their respective member. The Ammadi again takes karagam and the ''mulaiparis'' are also taken from the temple. Finally, the amman Karagam and mulaiparis are submerged into the village pond. It is also celebrated in Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple on the Tamil month of Aadi.


The [[Erode]] Mariamman temple festival is a grand one in [[Tamil Nadu]]. The worship of three Mariamman goddesses named Small, Medium and Large Mariamman (residing at three separate localities within the city) is combined in a festival every April. It features the thiruvilla, along with all the other [[:wikt:devotion|devotion]]s to God, and ends at the [[Cauvery]] river with the purificatory immersion of the kambam (effigy of Mariamman's husband) in the flowing waters of the river.
=== In the Tamil Diaspora ===
{{see also|Caribbean Shaktism}}
Her worship has been brought over across the Tamil Diaspora in places such as the [[Caribbean]], [[South Africa]], [[Mauritius]], [[Reunion Island]], [[Singapore]], [[Vietnam]], and [[Fiji]] where festivities and temples are often done and built in her name. Her trance-worship has been brought via the [[Girmityas]] to around the world, where similar traditions to those in Mainland Tamil Nadu are practiced. Often times, Mariamman is syncretized with Kali.


The [[Karur]] Mariamman temple festival, which is celebrated at the end of May each year, is another notable festival held in honour of the goddess in Tamil Nadu.
== Temples ==
{{verify section|date=October 2025}}
Most temples to Mariamman are simple village [[shrine]]s, where both male and female priests perform sacred rituals. In many rural shrines, the goddess is represented by a [[granite]] stone with a sharp tip, like a [[spear]] head. This stone is often adorned with garlands made of [[lime (fruit)|lime]]s and with red flowers. These shrines often have an [[anthill]] that could be the resting place of a [[cobra (snake)|cobra]], which is said to be a manifestation of Mariamman<ref>{{Cite book |last=Bremner |first=Lindsay |url=https://books.google.ca/books?id=GzByEAAAQBAJ&dq=mariamman+village+goddess+fertility+rain&pg=PT338&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=mariamman%20village%20goddess%20fertility%20rain&f=false |title=Monsoon as Method: Assembling Monsoonal Multiplicities |last2=Cullen |first2=Beth |last3=Geros |first3=Christina Leigh |last4=Bhat |first4=Harshavardhan |last5=Powis |first5=Anthony |date=2022-05-25 |publisher=Actar D, Inc. |isbn=978-1-63840-804-8 |language=ar}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-04-07 |title=Mariamman Thalattu |url=https://hindupedia.com/en/Mariamman_Thalattu |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=Hindupedia, the Hindu Encyclopedia |language=en}}</ref>. Milk and [[Egg (food)|eggs]] are offered to propitiate the snake.


Other important temples of Mariamman in [[Tamil Nadu]] are in the towns of [[Veerapandi, Theni]], Anbil (near Trichy), [[Narthamalai]], [[Thiruverkadu]], [[Salem, Tamil Nadu|Salem]], [[Virudhunagar]] and [[Sivakasi]], [[Vellore, Tamil Nadu|Vellore]]. In Chennai (Madras), a famous Mariamman temple is the Putthu Mariamman: the eponymous Putthu (ant-hill) being located across the road from the temple on the opposite side of the Velachery Main Road.
Some temples have attained sufficient popularity for [[Brahmanas]] to officiate at them. For example, the [[Samayapuram Mariamman Temple|Samayapuram Mariamman]] near the shore of river [[Kaveri]] in the northern outskirts of [[Tiruchirapalli]], maintains a rich agamic tradition and all rituals are performed by [[Gurukkalas]].


In 2012, the singer [[Harini (singer)|Harini]] composed a song about the [[Samayapuram Mariamman Temple|Samayapuram Mariamman]] deity which was featured on the album ''Om Nava Sakthi Jaya Jaya Sakthi''. The song narrates the power of [[Shakti]] as Samayapuram Amman and equates the Peruvalai River with Punya Theertham, as do the people in that area.<ref>[https://www.amazon.com/Amma-Mariamma/dp/B009RXO8TK Samayapuram Mariamman Song by Harini]</ref>
Locations of other Mariamman temples:
* Punainallur, near [[Thanjavur]] – Legend says that Mariamman appeared to the King [[Venkoji|Venkoji Maharaja Chatrapati]] (1676–1688) of Thanjavur in his dreams and told him she was in a forest of Punnai trees three miles distant from Thanjavur. The King rushed to the spot and recovered an [[Cult image|idol]] of Mariamman from the jungle. On the king's orders, a temple was constructed there, the idol installed, and the place was called Punnainallur. Hence the deity of this temple is known as Punnainallur Mariamman. Mud replicas of different parts of the human body are placed in the temple as offerings by devotees pleading for cures. It is said that the daughter of Tulaja Raja (1729–35) of Thanjavur, who lost her eyesight due to illness, regained it after worshipping at this temple. Shri [[Sadasiva Brahmendra]] is said to have made the Moola Murthi of Mariamman from the mud from the ant-hill where snakes had resided.
* [[Salem, Tamil Nadu|Salem]] – A Kottai Sri Periya Mariamman temple is located in the heart of this city, where the Aadi festival is celebrated for 22 days.
* [[Veerapandi, Theni]]
* Anbil (near Trichy)
* [[Narthamalai]]
* [[Thiruverkadu]] – in Thiruverkadu, goddess Mariamman is worshipped in the form of [[Karumariamman]], where she appeared as a black serpent out of an anthill.
* [[Virudhunagar]]
* [[Sivakasi]]
* [[Vellore, Tamil Nadu|Vellore]]
* Chennai (Madras) – The Putthu Mariamman derives its name from a Putthu (ant-hill) located on the opposite side of the Velachery Main Road.
* [[Madurai]] – The Theppakulam sri Mariamman Temple is a noted focus of devotion, primarily to the goddess and to the Maruthuvachi (= doctor/[[midwife]]). Periyachi Amman (or Pechi Amman), who was deified for her skill and heroism. The temple possesses a large theppakulam. Here, the Panguni festival is the main event of the religious calendar. The devotees of Mariamman observe the "poo choridhal" [[flower]] festival, and in the month of Aadi many women honour her with fasting and prayer.{{clarify|date=January 2017}}
* Kaup, [[Karnataka]] – This temple is located seven kilometres from the temple town of [[Udipi]].
* [[Urwa, India|Urwa]], a residential area of the city of [[Mangalore]] – Known familiarly as Urwa Marigudi, many miracles have been reported to occur at this temple through the power of the goddess.


[[Madurai]] is home to the Theppakulam sri Mariamman Temple, a noted focus of devotion, primarily to the goddess but also to the Maruthuvachi (= doctor/[[midwife]]). Periyachi Amman (or Pechi Amman), who was deified for her skill and heroism. The temple possesses a large theppakulam. Here the Panguni festival is the main event of the religious calendar. The devotees of The goddess Mariamman observe the "poo choridhal" [[flower]] festival, and in the month of Aadi many women honour her with fasting and prayer.{{clarify|date=January 2017}}
The [[Erode]] Mariamman temple festival is celebrated in [[Tamil Nadu]]. The worship of three Mariamman goddesses named Small, Medium and Large Mariamman (residing at three separate localities within the city) is combined in a festival every April. It features the Thiruvizha, along with all the other [[:wikt:devotion|devotion]]s to deities, and ends at the [[Kaveri]] river with the purificatory immersion of the Kambam (the effigy of Mariamman's husband Shiva) in the flowing waters of the river.


Another famous Mariamman temple is situated in the state of [[Karnataka]], in the town of Kaup, seven kilometres from the famous temple town of [[Udipi]].
The [[Karur]] Mariamman temple festival is celebrated at the end of May each year in honour of the goddess in Tamil Nadu.


There is also a famous and highly regarded Mariamman temple in [[Urwa, India|Urwa]], a residential area of the city of [[Mangalore]], where through the power of the goddess many miracles have been reported to occur. The temple is known familiarly as Urwa Marigudi.
In 2012, the singer [[Harini (singer)|Harini]] composed a song about the [[Samayapuram Mariamman Temple|Samayapuram Mariamman]] deity which was featured on the album ''Om Nava Sakthi Jaya Jaya Sakthi''. The song narrates the power of [[Shakti]] as Samayapuram Amman and equates the Peruvalai River with Punya Theertham, as do the people in that area.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Amma Mariamma |url=https://www.amazon.com/Amma-Mariamma/dp/B009RXO8TK |via=Amazon}}</ref>


===Outside India===
=== Outside India ===
[[File:Sri-mariamman-medan.jpg|thumbnail|right|[[Sri Mariamman Temple, Medan|Sri Mariamman temple in Medan]], [[Indonesia]]]]
[[File:Sri-mariamman-medan.jpg|thumbnail|right|[[Sri Mariamman Temple, Medan|Sri Mariamman temple in Medan]], [[Indonesia]]]]


* Arulmigou Shri Madhur Kannanour Mariamman Thirukkovil, Port-Louis in Mauritius
* [[Sri Muthumariamman Temple, Matale]] in Sri Lanka.
* [[Mariamman Temple, Ho Chi Minh City]] in Vietnam
* Arulmigou Shri Madhur Kannanour Mariamman Thirukkovil, Port-Louis in Mauritius.
* [[Mariamman Temple, Bangkok]] in Thailand
* [[Mariamman Temple, Ho Chi Minh City]] in Vietnam.
* [[Mariamman Temple, Pretoria]]
* [[Mariamman Temple, Bangkok]] in Thailand.
* [[Punnainallur Mariamman]]
* [[Mariamman Temple, Pretoria]] in South Africa.
* [[Samayapuram Mariamman Temple]]
* [[Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia.
* [[Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia
* [[Sri Mariamman Temple, Medan]], [[Indonesia]].
* [[Sri Mariamman Temple, Medan]], [[Indonesia]]
* [[Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Penang|Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, Penang]], Malaysia.
* [[Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Penang|Sri MahaMariamman Temple, Penang]], Malaysia
* [[Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore]].
* [[Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore]]
* [[Muththumari Amman Temple, Negombo|Sri Muthu Mariamman Temple, Negombo]], Sri Lanka.
* [[Muththumari Amman Temple|Sri MuthuMariamman Temple]], Negombo
* [[Mariamman Temple, Pretoria]] in South Africa.
* [[Mariamman Temple, Pretoria]]
* Mari Mata Mandir or Shri Mariamman Temple, [[Madrasi Para]] neighborhood of [[Karachi]], in Pakistan.
* [[Matale Sri Muthumariyamman Temple]], [[Matale]]-[[Sri Lanka]]
 
There are many Mariamman temples outside India, in [[Mauritius]], [[Sri Lanka]] (Mari Mata Temple Rattan Tallow Akbar Road Saddar Karachi Pakistan, in Karachi 5 Mari Mata Temples, Rattan Tallow Temple Soyam Parghat Temple. In Karachi five temples of Mari Mata). [[Malaysia]], [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], [[Fiji]], Fiji Maha Shakti Mata Temple Nadi and Suva, [[Guyana]], [[Vietnam]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[Germany]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dinamalar.com/nri/Country-detailnews.asp?lang=en&news_id=43&Country_name=Europe&cat=koi |title=Temples : Sri Maha Mari Amman Temple, Germany |publisher=Dinamalar |date=2007-12-28 |access-date=2011-10-29}}</ref> and [[South Africa]], the product of efforts of the [[Tamil diaspora]]. Some notable temples include the [[Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore|Sri Mariamman temple in Singapore]], [[Mariamman Temple, Bangkok|Sri Mariamman temple in Bangkok]], a [[Mariamman Temple, Pretoria|Mariamman temple in Pretoria]], [[South Africa]], as well as one in [[Sri Mariamman Temple, Medan]], Sri Mariamman Temple Karachi Pakistan, (Marathi Peoples Calling=Mari Aayi)(Shri Mari Mata Temple Rattan Tallow Akbar Road Saddar Karachi Pakistan.) [[Indonesia]].{{Citation needed|date=July 2010}}
 
There are also many Mariamman temple in every state of [[Malaysia]]. Some notable temples include the Queen Street [[Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Penang|Sri MahaMariamman Temple, Penang]] in [[George Town, Penang|George Town]], Sri Sithala Maha Mariamman Temple, Pekan Getah Tapah, Lorong Kulit Sri Muthu Mariamman Temple in George Town, Sri Rudra Verra Muthu MahaMariamman Temple in [[Air Itam]], Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam in [[Arau]], Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam in [[Alor Setar]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Sungai Petani]],  Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Ipoh]], Sri Nagamuthu Mariamman Temple in [[Taiping, Perak|Taiping]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Gopeng]], [[Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur|Sri MahaMariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Klang (city)|Klang]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Chukai]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Port Dickson]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Kuantan]], Sri Veera Sundara Muthu Mariamman in [[Kulim]], Raja Mariamman Temple in [[Johor Bahru]], Sri Maha Muthu Mariamman Temple in [[Tumpat District|Tumpat]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Kuching]] and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Sibu]].
 
==Hindu tradition==
In Hindu tradition, Mariamman is the sister of Lord [[Vishnu]] [[Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam|(Sriranganathar)]] and called Mahamaya.{{Citation needed|date=July 2010}}


The [[Samayapuram Mariamman Temple|Samayapuram Mariamman]] is worshipped on the first day of the Tamil month of [[Vaikasi]] by the [[Iyengar]]/[[Srivaishnava]] [[Brahmins]] of [[Srirangam]]. They claim that she is the sister of [[Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam|Lord Ranganathaswamy]] (a form of Vishnu) of [[Srirangam]].{{Citation needed|date=July 2013}} This is the second most prominent temple in Tamil Nadu, following [[Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, Palani|Palani Dandayudhapaniswamy temple]], on the basis of income.{{Citation needed|date=July 2010}}
There are many Mariamman temples outside India, in [[Mauritius]], [[Malaysia]], [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], [[Fiji]], Fiji Maha Shakti Mata Temple Nadi and Suva, [[Guyana]], [[Vietnam]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[Germany]]<ref>{{cite web |date=28 December 2007 |title=Temples: Sri Maha Mari Amman Temple, Germany |url=https://www.dinamalar.com/world-news-nri-ta |access-date=29 October 2011 |publisher=Dinamalar}}</ref> and [[South Africa]], the product of efforts of the [[Tamil diaspora]]. Some notable temples include the [[Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore|Sri Mariamman temple in Singapore]], [[Mariamman Temple, Bangkok|Sri Mariamman temple in Bangkok]], a [[Mariamman Temple, Pretoria|Mariamman temple in Pretoria]], [[South Africa]], as well as one in [[Sri Mariamman Temple, Medan]], [[Indonesia]].{{Citation needed|date=July 2010}}


Another version of the traditions suggests she is the mother of [[Parasurama]], [[Renuka]]devi who is appeased for rains. She is also known as Sri Chowdeshwari Devi in most of the parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. In Mysore region she is worshipped as both Chowdeshwari Devi and as well as Mariamman. There are many instances where Mariamman has appeared to people in form an old woman wearing red [[sari]] with green [[bangle]]s and three [[mangalsutra]]s.{{Clarify|date=July 2010}} She is also regarded as the Gramdevata{{Clarify|date=July 2010}} of certain villages, thus reducing the incidence of contagious disease in these villages. Another version depicts her as Pattalamma, goddesses of truthfulness and punctuality. She is said to punish any villager failing to practice these virtues.{{Citation needed|date=July 2010}}
There are also many Mariamman temple in every state of [[Malaysia]]. Some notable temples include the Queen Street [[Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Penang|Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, Penang]] in [[George Town, Penang|George Town]], Sri Sithala Maha Mariamman Temple, Pekan Getah Tapah, Lorong Kulit Sri Muthu Mariamman Temple in George Town, Sri Rudra Verra Muthu MahaMariamman Temple in [[Air Itam]], Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam in [[Arau]], Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam in [[Alor Setar]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Sungai Petani]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Ipoh]], Sri Nagamuthu Mariamman Temple in [[Taiping, Perak|Taiping]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Gopeng]], [[Sri MahaMariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Klang (city)|Klang]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Chukai]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Port Dickson]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Kuantan]], Sri Veera Sundara Muthu Mariamman in [[Kulim]], Raja Mariamman Temple in [[Johor Bahru]], Sri Maha Muthu Mariamman Temple in [[Tumpat District|Tumpat]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Kuching]], Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in [[Sibu]], and Sri Muthu Mariamman Temple, [[Kampung Chetti]], [[Melaka]].


In reference to Sanskrit stotras, it is suggested Mariamman is not sister of Lord Visnu rather feminine aspect of Lord.{{Citation needed|date=July 2013}} The Lord incarnates in this form during Kali yuga, when knowledge is almost void or ignorance at peak. Even few refer or map to other female goddess like Renuka devi, none of them have been proved or validated. The Mariamman represents core aspects of Lord in form of curative aspect to signify direction and awakening of knowledge. She is referred as MahaLakshmi, Mahasaraswati and MahaKali. Varamahalakshi is dedicated to Mariamman. It also represents finite aspect of infinite qualities.
There is another very popular temple dedicated to Mariamman in [[Matale]], Sri Lanka.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sri Muthumariamman Temple Matale |url=https://ceylonpages.lk/matale/place/sri-muthumariamman-temple/ |access-date=1 October 2023 |website=ceylonpages.lk}}</ref>


==Gallery==
== Gallery ==
<gallery heights=180px, mode="packed">
<gallery heights="180px," mode="packed">
File:Nanalthidal mariamman.JPG|The Nanalthidal Mariamman, Kattucherry near Porayar, [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]], Jan '13
File:Nanalthidal mariamman.JPG|The Nanalthidal Mariamman, Kattucherry near Porayar, [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]], Jan '13
File:Kattucherry mariamman temple.jpg|Mariamman temple, Kattucherry village, [[Tamil Nadu]], Jan '13
File:Kattucherry mariamman temple.jpg|Mariamman temple, Kattucherry village, [[Tamil Nadu]], Jan '13
File:Bokkapuram Mariamman Temple SE Vimana Mar21 A7C 00580.jpg|[[File:Valued image seal.svg|15px]]{{QI seal|size=15}} Mariamman temple [[vimana]], Bokkapuram village, [[Tamil Nadu]], Mar '21
File:Bokkapuram Mariamman Temple SE Vimana Mar21 A7C 00580.jpg|Mariamman temple [[vimana]], Bokkapuram village, [[Tamil Nadu]], Mar '21
Image:Mariamman temple in KL.jpg|Main shrine to Mariamman in the [[Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur|Sri Maha Mariamman Temple]] in [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Malaysia]]
Image:Mariamman temple in KL.jpg|Main shrine to Mariamman in the [[Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur|Sri Maha Mariamman Temple]] in [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Malaysia]]
</gallery>
</gallery>


==Syncretism==
== See also ==
Among the [[Malbars]] of the French island [[Réunion]], a syncretism of Catholicism and [[Hinduism in Réunion|Hinduism]] can develop.
* [[Karuppuswamy]]
 
==See also==
* [[Draupadi Amman]]
* [[Draupadi Amman]]
* [[Karumariamman]]
* [[Samayapuram Mariamman]]
* [[Isakki]]
* [[Isakki]]
* [[Kateri Amman]]
* [[Kateri Amman]]
Line 154: Line 151:
* [[Mari (goddess)]]
* [[Mari (goddess)]]
* [[Pidari]]
* [[Pidari]]
* [[Caribbean Shaktism]]


== Citations ==
== Citations ==
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== General references ==
== General references ==
* Kolenda, Pauline. "Pox and the Terror of Childlessness: Images and Ideas of the Smallpox Goddess in a North Indian Village" in P. Kolenda, ''Caste, Cult and Hierarchy: Essays on the Culture of India''. New Delhi: Folklore Institute, 1983. pp.&nbsp;198–221.
* Kolenda, Pauline. "Pox and the Terror of Childlessness: Images and Ideas of the Smallpox Goddess in a North Indian Village" in P. Kolenda, ''Caste, Cult and Hierarchy: Essays on the Culture of India''. New Delhi: Folklore Institute, 1983. pp.{{nbs}}198–221.
* Rigopoulos, Antonio. ''The life and teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi''. Albany: State University of New York Press, 1993. {{ISBN|0-7914-1268-7}}. pp.&nbsp;78, 80, 160, 224, 226, 250.
* Rigopoulos, Antonio. ''The life and teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi''. Albany: State University of New York Press, 1993. {{ISBN|0-7914-1268-7}}. pp.{{nbs}}78, 80, 160, 224, 226, 250.


==External links==
== External links ==
{{commons category}}
* {{commons category inline}}


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[[Category:Rain deities]]
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[[Category:Smallpox deities]]
[[Category:Tamil deities]]
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[[Category:Plague goddesses]]

Latest revision as of 20:47, 29 March 2026


Mariamman
Goddess of Weather, Fertility,[1] and Health
Member of Mahadevi
Painting of Mariamman, Tamil Nadu, circa 19 CE
Other namesRenuga devi, Renuka, Mariamma, Mariamman, MuthuMariamman, Mariatha, Mari, Amman, Amma, Ambika, Karumariamman, Karumari, Parashakti, adi Parasakthi, Pidari
Venerated inSouth India
AffiliationDevi, Shakti, Mahadevi, Durga, Kali, Parvati, Shitala, Draupadi, Rukmini, Sita, Renuka, Shaktism, Pidari
AbodeEarth
WeaponTrident, Sword, noose
AnimalsSnake, Lion
Symbolsneem trees/leaves, trident, kumkum, cobras
AdherentsPrimarily rural[2] Tamil Hindus, South Indian Hindus
MountLion
TemplesSamayapuram Mariamman, Punnainallur Mariamman, Tiruverkadu Devi Karumariamman Temple, Dindigul Kottai Mariamman
FestivalsNavaratri, Ādi Thiruviḻa
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Mariamman, often abbreviated to Amman (Script error: The function "langx" does not exist.), is a Hindu Tamil folk religion goddess of weather, predominantly venerated in the rural areas of South India.[3][4] Her festivals are held during the late summer/early autumn season of Ādi throughout Tamil Nadu and the Deccan region, the largest being the Ādi Thiruviḻa. Her worship mainly focuses on bringing rains and curing such serious diseases as cholera, smallpox, and chicken pox.

Mariamman is worshipped in accordance with local traditions such as Pidari, Karumariamman[5], Renuka, Draupadi or the Gramadevatai. She is considered as a guardian deity (kaval deivam) by many South Indian village dwellers. She is also worshipped in Karnataka as Marikambe, who is a manifestation of Adi-Parashakti or Mahadevi.

Origin[edit | edit source]

Mariamman embedded in a trident, 1st century, Chola period, Tamil Nadu, India

Mariamman's worship originated in the traditions of Dravidian folk religion.[6] She is the main Tamil mother goddess, predominantly venerated in the rural areas of South India. Mariamman has been associated with Hindu goddesses such as Parvati,[7] Kali, Durga,[8] Rukmini,[9] Sita,[10] Draupadi,[11] as well as with her northern Indian counterpart Shitala, her eastern Indian counterpart, Olai Chandi; and her western Indian counterpart of Mogal mata.

The word Mari (pronunciation: /mɒri/) has the Sangam Tamil origin meaning "Rain", and the Dravidian root term Amman means "Mother". She was worshipped by the ancient Tamil as the bringer of rain and also the bringer of prosperity, since the abundance of their crops was dependent largely upon adequate rainfall. The cult of the mother goddess is treated as an indication of a society that venerated femininity. The temples of the Sangam days, mainly of Madurai, seem to have had priestesses to the deity, which also appear predominantly as goddesses.[12] In Sangam literature, there is an elaborate description of the rites performed by the Kuravar priestesses in the shrine Palamutircholai.[13]

Iconography[edit | edit source]

Mariamman is usually pictured as a beautiful young woman with a red-hued face, wearing a red dress. Sometimes she is portrayed with many arms—representing her many powers—but in most representations she has only two or four. Also described to be wearing snakes as jewelry.

Mariamman is generally portrayed in the sitting or standing position with a five-headed serpent over her head, often holding a trident (trisula) in one hand and a bowl (kapala) in the other. One of her hands may display a mudra, usually the abhaya mudra, to ward off fear, she'll also be seen with a damru In one hand which tends to have a serpent wrapped around it. She may be represented with two demeanours—one displaying her pleasant nature, and the other her terrifying aspect, with fangs and a wild mane of hair.

Legends[edit | edit source]

Erode Mariamman Ther Thiruvizha

The origin of the goddess Mariamman in terms of a consistent and coherent legend has not been standardized. Several myths of the mother goddess exist in several regional traditions that are spread orally throughout South India.

According to a regional Hindu legend, there was once a beautiful woman named Nagavalli, wife to a rishi named Piruhu. When the rishi was away, the Trimurti, the deities of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, visited her, seeking to decide for themselves if she was truly as beautiful and virtuous as she was supposed to be. Nagavalli, not recognising them, and resenting their intrusion, turned them into children with her powers. The deities were infuriated and cursed her, causing her face to become disfigured with smallpox. When Piruhu returned, he drove her away, informing her that she would be born on earth, causing her affliction to human beings as well.[14]

According to the Vanniyar community, an agrarian class, Draupadi, the common wife of the Pandavas, is said to be an incarnation of the goddess Shakti. Draupadi, despite being Shakti, lived like a normal woman, suppressing her supernatural powers. While they were in exile, when the Pandavas were asleep at night, she would travel to the villages of Vanniyar in the form of a fierce looking Goddess. Vanniyars would offer her prayers and barley, which pleased her. In time, she would be called Mariamman (the mother of rain and curing diseases), and became popular in the Vanniyar villages.[15]

According to the narrative of the higher varnas, there was once a pariah boy who impersonated a Brahmin suitor in order to marry a Brahmin girl. This lie is discovered by the girl when she discerns the jargon and non-vegetarian habits of her in-laws. In order to ritually purify herself from the pollution of being married to a low-born pariah, the girl self-immolates. This Brahmin girl is deified and named as Mariamman, and becomes the goddess of the pariahs.[14]

In another version, Mariamman was once a woman named Vasuki who was the wife of Thiruvalluvar a tamil poet, and who was an outcast. She caught smallpox and went begging house to house for food, fanning herself with neem leaves to keep flies away. Eventually she recovered and is then worshipped as Mariamman, goddess of smallpox.

The most popular narrative of Mariamman, has to do with the story of Renuka. She was once a women named Renuka, wife to sage Jamadagni and mother to Parasurama the sixth avatar of Vishnu. Renuka lost her powers after being attracted to a scene by the lake, when her husband Jamadagni found out he became furious. He sent his son Parasurama to kill Renuka. Renuka ran for her life and took shelter in a nearby village by a low-caste women, but when Parasurama found her, he decapitated Renuka and the low-caste women. After begging his father to let him bring back his mother and the women, Parasurama accidentally swapped their heads. Renuka's head was on the low-caste women's body and the low-caste women's head on Renuka's body. after this she became Mariamman "the changed mother".[16]

In northern India, Shitala is worshipped in a similar way, predominantly by the Rajput/Kshatriya community. Shitala has a legend and plays a similar role in protecting villages from diseases.

Roles[edit | edit source]

Goddess of medicine[edit | edit source]

Mariamman is purported to cure all so-called "heat-based" diseases. During the summer months in South India (March to June), people walk miles carrying pots of water mixed with turmeric and neem leaves to ward off such illnesses as measles and chicken pox, which were believed to spread more in that season.

Fertility goddess[edit | edit source]

Devotees also pray to Mariamman for familial welfare such as fertility, healthy progeny or a good spouse. The most favoured offering is "pongal", a mix of rice and green gram, cooked mostly in the temple complex, or shrine itself, in terracotta pots using firewood.

Some festivals in honour of the goddess Mariamman involve night-time processions of devotees carrying oil lamps.Template:Why? Mariamman is the family deity for many in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. It is a custom initially to worship the family deity on occasions such as weddings. The worship of a 'family deity' (kuladevata), considered most important in any Hindu festival, continues down the generations, providing a clue to the family's origin, since the family deities are usually located within the vicinity of the village to which the family originally belonged.

Worship[edit | edit source]

Procession of Mariamman

The worshipping methods are often accompanied by various kinds of folk dancing.[17] Offerings such as pongal and koozh that are cooked using earthen pots are also made during the festive season. Rituals such as fire walking and mouth or nose piercing are also practised.

At the Samayapuram Mariamman Temple in Samayapuram, the Hindu system of worship is still seen today for the worship of Mariyamman, which involves a ten-day festival organized by temple authorities during the second week in April. Some continue to use an old village custom of worship by offering chickens and goats to the deity, though the animals are no longer sacrificed but sold after being offered. The main worship of the goddess occurs on the road a mile or two from the temple. A hurried walk and dance carry hundreds of thousands of worshippers along the road to the temple. Many in the crowd have fasted, shaved their heads, and wear bright yellow clothes which are sacred to the goddess. Women and children may carry a pot on their heads decorated with the goddess's favourite leaves, of the margosa tree. Young men and women, carrying similar pots, are followed by drummers and dance more wildly. Larger men and women carry pots of charcoal fire. Some put themselves through a special tribulation of having one of the sacred weapons, dagger, trident, or spear, inserted through their cheeks or tongues.[18] Through this worship each individual achieves self-realization and awareness of others through samsara and moksha. In this self-realization a bonding with the goddess occurs, which is the underlining reason for the worship.

Mulaikottu[edit | edit source]

Mulaikottu is a village festival celebrated in southern Tamil Nadu, particularly in villages of Madurai, Sivagangai, Dindugul, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi and Thirunelveli districts. By doing so they believe that they can get her blessing and sufficient rain for better cultivation. This festival is generally celebrated in between any Tamil month of panguni to Purattasi. The festival lasts for 11 days. (Sunday of first week to Wednesday of second week).

On the auspicious beginning of the village festival, a village meeting will be convened to sort out the best suitable date for the celebration of Mulaikottu. Before fixing any date, the pradhana and secretary of the village gather some information from the villagers regarding any marriage or anyone suffering from chicken pox etc. If anyone is affected by chicken pox, any sudden death occurred or someone's marriage is taking place, under these circumstances the date of mulaikottu will be either postponed or cancelled according to the public opinion at the meeting. The celebration begins with collection of nine different types of grain seeds from every house, called thandal in Tamil. The Thandal will held in Sunday of Valarpirai. The following Tuesday is the second day of thandal called Pari parapputhal. Next Tuesday, the main function is held on the day called mulaikottu. On the next day of thandal, the temple committee distribute the grains to every house for setting up of pari.

The pari is a clay pot with a wide mouth and narrow base with a hole in the bottom. This utensil is specially made for this purpose and sold at the market. The villagers visit the market and purchase number of paris as they wanted to set up in their home.

The first step to set them up is to clean paris and their home the second day of thandal. People used to collect goat dung and some hay. The hay is used to block the hole of the pari. A layer of goat dung is spread over the hay and watered to make the dung wet. This is the procedure of setting up of pari.

As a next step to this, the received nine type of grains from the temple committee, is smoothly spread over the goat dung on the pari. Following this, a pooja will be arranged for praying the goddess to make the pari a successful one. Every house may have more than two paries. These paries taken into a dark and isolated room in their house. For the next seven days they have to grow the seedlings into a plant. Usage of loudspeaker and crackers are completely banned during this period. During evening, all villagers assemble in front of the Mariamman temple and sing folk songs known as mari pattu and dance folk dances such as mulaikottu ( similar to kummi), Amman oyil. It is followed everyday from thandal Sunday (First day) to next Sunday (eighth day). The ninth day called thangal, means camping. On this day the temple is closed and folk poojas and dances are prohibited. The Amman karagam is made in village water body and the person who fasts in those 10 days is called Ammadi (The person who depicted as Amman). The amandi takes the karagam and gave to temple. All paris are brought into the Amman temple from the houses on the tenth day of thandal. The paris remain in the Amman temple for one night and on the next day (the last day, eleventh day, Wednesday), and after a pooja, the paries will be issued back to their respective member. The Ammadi again takes karagam and the mulaiparis are also taken from the temple. Finally, the amman Karagam and mulaiparis are submerged into the village pond. It is also celebrated in Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple on the Tamil month of Aadi.

In the Tamil Diaspora[edit | edit source]

See also: Caribbean Shaktism

Her worship has been brought over across the Tamil Diaspora in places such as the Caribbean, South Africa, Mauritius, Reunion Island, Singapore, Vietnam, and Fiji where festivities and temples are often done and built in her name. Her trance-worship has been brought via the Girmityas to around the world, where similar traditions to those in Mainland Tamil Nadu are practiced. Often times, Mariamman is syncretized with Kali.

Temples[edit | edit source]

Template:Verify section Most temples to Mariamman are simple village shrines, where both male and female priests perform sacred rituals. In many rural shrines, the goddess is represented by a granite stone with a sharp tip, like a spear head. This stone is often adorned with garlands made of limes and with red flowers. These shrines often have an anthill that could be the resting place of a cobra, which is said to be a manifestation of Mariamman[19][20]. Milk and eggs are offered to propitiate the snake.

Some temples have attained sufficient popularity for Brahmanas to officiate at them. For example, the Samayapuram Mariamman near the shore of river Kaveri in the northern outskirts of Tiruchirapalli, maintains a rich agamic tradition and all rituals are performed by Gurukkalas.

Locations of other Mariamman temples:

  • Punainallur, near Thanjavur – Legend says that Mariamman appeared to the King Venkoji Maharaja Chatrapati (1676–1688) of Thanjavur in his dreams and told him she was in a forest of Punnai trees three miles distant from Thanjavur. The King rushed to the spot and recovered an idol of Mariamman from the jungle. On the king's orders, a temple was constructed there, the idol installed, and the place was called Punnainallur. Hence the deity of this temple is known as Punnainallur Mariamman. Mud replicas of different parts of the human body are placed in the temple as offerings by devotees pleading for cures. It is said that the daughter of Tulaja Raja (1729–35) of Thanjavur, who lost her eyesight due to illness, regained it after worshipping at this temple. Shri Sadasiva Brahmendra is said to have made the Moola Murthi of Mariamman from the mud from the ant-hill where snakes had resided.
  • Salem – A Kottai Sri Periya Mariamman temple is located in the heart of this city, where the Aadi festival is celebrated for 22 days.
  • Veerapandi, Theni
  • Anbil (near Trichy)
  • Narthamalai
  • Thiruverkadu – in Thiruverkadu, goddess Mariamman is worshipped in the form of Karumariamman, where she appeared as a black serpent out of an anthill.
  • Virudhunagar
  • Sivakasi
  • Vellore
  • Chennai (Madras) – The Putthu Mariamman derives its name from a Putthu (ant-hill) located on the opposite side of the Velachery Main Road.
  • Madurai – The Theppakulam sri Mariamman Temple is a noted focus of devotion, primarily to the goddess and to the Maruthuvachi (= doctor/midwife). Periyachi Amman (or Pechi Amman), who was deified for her skill and heroism. The temple possesses a large theppakulam. Here, the Panguni festival is the main event of the religious calendar. The devotees of Mariamman observe the "poo choridhal" flower festival, and in the month of Aadi many women honour her with fasting and prayer.[clarification needed]
  • Kaup, Karnataka – This temple is located seven kilometres from the temple town of Udipi.
  • Urwa, a residential area of the city of Mangalore – Known familiarly as Urwa Marigudi, many miracles have been reported to occur at this temple through the power of the goddess.

The Erode Mariamman temple festival is celebrated in Tamil Nadu. The worship of three Mariamman goddesses named Small, Medium and Large Mariamman (residing at three separate localities within the city) is combined in a festival every April. It features the Thiruvizha, along with all the other devotions to deities, and ends at the Kaveri river with the purificatory immersion of the Kambam (the effigy of Mariamman's husband Shiva) in the flowing waters of the river.

The Karur Mariamman temple festival is celebrated at the end of May each year in honour of the goddess in Tamil Nadu.

In 2012, the singer Harini composed a song about the Samayapuram Mariamman deity which was featured on the album Om Nava Sakthi Jaya Jaya Sakthi. The song narrates the power of Shakti as Samayapuram Amman and equates the Peruvalai River with Punya Theertham, as do the people in that area.[21]

Outside India[edit | edit source]

Sri Mariamman temple in Medan, Indonesia

There are many Mariamman temples outside India, in Mauritius, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Fiji, Fiji Maha Shakti Mata Temple Nadi and Suva, Guyana, Vietnam, Trinidad and Tobago, Germany[22] and South Africa, the product of efforts of the Tamil diaspora. Some notable temples include the Sri Mariamman temple in Singapore, Sri Mariamman temple in Bangkok, a Mariamman temple in Pretoria, South Africa, as well as one in Sri Mariamman Temple, Medan, Indonesia.[citation needed]

There are also many Mariamman temple in every state of Malaysia. Some notable temples include the Queen Street Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, Penang in George Town, Sri Sithala Maha Mariamman Temple, Pekan Getah Tapah, Lorong Kulit Sri Muthu Mariamman Temple in George Town, Sri Rudra Verra Muthu MahaMariamman Temple in Air Itam, Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam in Arau, Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam in Alor Setar, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Sungai Petani, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Ipoh, Sri Nagamuthu Mariamman Temple in Taiping, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Gopeng, Sri MahaMariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Klang, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Chukai, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Port Dickson, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Kuantan, Sri Veera Sundara Muthu Mariamman in Kulim, Raja Mariamman Temple in Johor Bahru, Sri Maha Muthu Mariamman Temple in Tumpat, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Kuching, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Sibu, and Sri Muthu Mariamman Temple, Kampung Chetti, Melaka.

There is another very popular temple dedicated to Mariamman in Matale, Sri Lanka.[23]

Gallery[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

Citations[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Bhattacharya, Jayati; Kripalani, Coonoor (1 March 2015). Indian and Chinese Immigrant Communities: Comparative Perspectives. Anthem Press. ISBN 9781783083626 – via Google Books.
  2. ↑ Bremner, Lindsay; Cullen, Beth; Geros, Christina Leigh; Bhat, Harshavardhan; Powis, Anthony (25 May 2022). Monsoon as Method: Assembling Monsoonal Multiplicities. Actar D, Inc. ISBN 9781638408048 – via Google Books.
  3. ↑ "Mariamman – the Village Goddess who travelled". Storytrails. 30 September 2020. Retrieved 7 August 2021.
  4. ↑ Neuenhofer, Christa (27 November 2012). Ayyanar and Mariamman, Folk Deities in South India. Blurb, Incorporated. ISBN 978-1-4579-9010-6.
  5. ↑ PremKV (31 October 2025). Documentary - Grama Devatas - a prequel to Agastyamuni series. Retrieved 29 March 2026 – via YouTube.
  6. ↑ Proceedings. Indian History Congress. 1980. p. 100.
  7. ↑ "ஆயி உமையானவளே ஆதிசிவன் தேவியரே" (Oh Mother Uma, Consort of Siva!) – Mariamman Thalattu, Goddess Mari Prayer.
  8. ↑ "The truthful Kali who guarded the homesteads sat with her, The Kali sat together with Durga continuously with her". Mariamman Lullaby
  9. ↑ Viraraghavacharya, T. K. T. (1997). History of Tirupati: The Thiruvengadam Temple. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. p. 486.
  10. ↑ Ricci, Ronit (21 November 2019). Banishment and Belonging: Exile and Diaspora in Sarandib, Lanka and Ceylon. Cambridge University Press. p. 151. ISBN 978-1-108-48027-7.
  11. ↑ Harvey, Graham (8 April 2016). Religions in Focus: New Approaches to Tradition and Contemporary Practices. Routledge. ISBN 978-1-134-93690-8.
  12. ↑ Manickam, Valliappa Subramaniam (1968). A glimpse of Tamilology. Academy of Tamil Scholars of Tamil Nadu. p. 75.
  13. ↑ Lal, Mohan (2006). The Encyclopaedia Of Indian Literature (Volume Five (Sasay To Zorgot), Volume 5. Sahitya Akademi. p. 4396. ISBN 8126012218.
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 Narayan, M. K. V. (April 2007). Flipside of Hindu Symbolism: Sociological and Scientific Linkages in Hinduism. Fultus Corporation. p. 76. ISBN 978-1-59682-117-0.
  15. ↑ Kottayam), Dr Jyothi Susan Abraham (Assistant Professor, Baselius College, Kottayam) Dr Kavitha Gopalakrishnan (Assistant Professor, Baselius College, Kottayam) Ms Meera Elizabeth James (Assistant Professor, Baselius College (11 February 2022). Pandemic Reverberations and Altered Lives. Co-Text Publishers. p. 23. ISBN 978-81-952253-4-7.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  16. ↑ "What is the Story of Mariamman?". www.exoticindiaart.com. Retrieved 10 February 2026.
  17. ↑ M. K. V. Narayan, Exploring the Hindu Mind: Cultural Reflection and Symbolism, Readworthy, 2009, p. 93
  18. ↑ Younger, Paul. "Journal of the American Academy of Religion." A Temple Festival of Māriyamman (1980): 493–513. ATLA Religion Database. Web. 28 September 2014.
  19. ↑ Bremner, Lindsay; Cullen, Beth; Geros, Christina Leigh; Bhat, Harshavardhan; Powis, Anthony (25 May 2022). Monsoon as Method: Assembling Monsoonal Multiplicities (in العربية). Actar D, Inc. ISBN 978-1-63840-804-8.
  20. ↑ "Mariamman Thalattu". Hindupedia, the Hindu Encyclopedia. 7 April 2023. Retrieved 15 February 2026.
  21. ↑ "Amma Mariamma" – via Amazon.
  22. ↑ "Temples: Sri Maha Mari Amman Temple, Germany". Dinamalar. 28 December 2007. Retrieved 29 October 2011.
  23. ↑ "Sri Muthumariamman Temple Matale". ceylonpages.lk. Retrieved 1 October 2023.

General references[edit | edit source]

  • Kolenda, Pauline. "Pox and the Terror of Childlessness: Images and Ideas of the Smallpox Goddess in a North Indian Village" in P. Kolenda, Caste, Cult and Hierarchy: Essays on the Culture of India. New Delhi: Folklore Institute, 1983. pp.Template:Nbs198–221.
  • Rigopoulos, Antonio. The life and teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi. Albany: State University of New York Press, 1993. ISBN 0-7914-1268-7. pp.Template:Nbs78, 80, 160, 224, 226, 250.

External links[edit | edit source]

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