Karumariamman of Vallikollaimedu – History, Rituals & Solar Grace

September 23, 2025 , , , ,

 

Location

  • Temple Name: Arulmigu Devi Karumariamman Temple
  • Area: Thiruverkadu, near Vallikollaimedu, Tiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu
  • Distance from Chennai: ~18 km west of Chennai city
  • Access: Well-connected by road and local buses from Poonamallee, Ambattur, and Avadi

Main Deity & Subshrines

Presiding Deity

  • Goddess Karumariamman: A powerful form of Shakti, believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested) from an anthill
  • The name Karumariamman signifies “the goddess not born from a womb,” highlighting her divine emergence

Subshrines in the Temple Complex

  • Valampuri Vinayagar (East-facing Ganesha)
  • Sri Srinivasa Perumal
  • Navagraha Shrine
  • Murugan with Valli and Deivanai
  • Durga Devi, Angala Parameswari, Pratyangira Devi, Dakshinamurthy, Seven Mothers (Sapta Matrikas)
  • Marachilayamman and Verkanniyamman (local guardian deities)

Temple Significance

  • Origin Legend: The temple was built after a devotee dreamt of the goddess appearing from an anthill. Upon excavation, a Swayambhu idol was found, leading to the temple’s establishment.
  • Surya Dev Connection: A unique phenomenon occurs twice a year (in Panguni and Purattasi) when the sun’s rays fall directly on the feet of the deity, symbolizing Surya’s penance and devotion.
  • Spiritual Magnetism:
    • The temple is known for granting health, prosperity, and protection from evil forces
    • Devotees worship the eternally burning lamp in the sanctum for blessings and abundance
  • Cultural Role: The temple blends Dravidian architecture, folk traditions, and Tantric elements, making it a vibrant spiritual hub for devotees across Tamil Nadu

History

  • The temple dates back to the 19th century, though the site itself is considered much older, rooted in Tamil folk traditions and Shakti worship.
  • The name Thiruverkadu means “sacred forest of roots,” referring to the herbal-rich groves that once surrounded the area.
  • The temple was built around a Swayambhu (self-manifested) idol of Karumariamman, discovered in an anthill, which remains central to worship even today.

Legends

  • According to temple lore, Karumariamman wandered the earth in disguise, offering divine guidance. When she approached Surya Bhagavan (Sun God), he failed to recognize her and showed disrespect.
  • In response, the goddess withdrew her grace, causing the sun to lose its brilliance and the world to fall into darkness. Surya then realized his mistake and begged forgiveness.
  • As penance, he promised to honor her every Sunday, which is now considered the most auspicious day for worship at this temple.
  • Twice a year, during Panguni and Purattasi, the sun’s rays fall directly on the feet of the deity, symbolizing Surya’s devotion and the goddess’s cosmic power.

Architecture

  • The temple follows Dravidian architectural style, with a striking Rajagopuram (main tower), spacious mandapams, and a serene Pushkarini (temple tank).
  • The sanctum sanctorum houses the Swayambhu idol within the original anthill, preserved and worshipped with deep reverence.
  • The temple complex includes shrines for Valampuri Vinayagar, Srinivasa Perumal, Murugan, Durga, Pratyangira Devi, and Navagrahas, reflecting a blend of folk, Vedic, and Tantric traditions.
  • A unique shrine called “Marachilai Amman” is also present, emphasizing the temple’s deep connection to nature and local guardian deities.

Rituals

  • Daily Pujas:
    • Mangala Aarti, Abhishekam, Alankaram, and Deepa Aradhana are performed with devotion.
    • Offerings include turmeric, kumkum, neem leaves, bangles, and sarees, symbolizing protection and prosperity.
    • Devotees light ghee lamps near the eternally burning lamp in the sanctum, believed to fulfill wishes.
  • Sunday Worship:
    • Considered the most auspicious day, honoring the legend of Surya Bhagavan’s penance to Karumariamman.
    • Special Surya Puja and Annadanam (free meal service) are conducted.
  • Anthill Worship:
    • The original Swayambhu idol emerged from an anthill, which is still preserved and worshipped.
    • Devotees offer milk and turmeric directly to the anthill, seeking healing and fertility blessings.

Festivals

Panguni & Purattasi Solar Phenomenon

  • Twice a year, during Panguni (March–April) and Purattasi (September–October), the sun’s rays fall directly on the feet of the deity, symbolizing cosmic alignment and Surya’s devotion.

Aadi Festival

  • Celebrated in Aadi month (July–August) with grand processions, Amman Alankarams, and community feasts.
  • Devotees carry kavadi, perform padayatra, and offer pongal and sweet rice.

Navratri & Vijayadasami

  • Nine days of Devi Alankarams, bhajans, and special homams.
  • On Vijayadasami, devotees seek blessings for victory in personal and professional endeavors.

Thai Pongal & Tamil New Year

  • Marked with special abhishekams, decorations, and cultural programs.

Beliefs

  • Swayambhu Power: The goddess is believed to have manifested herself from the earth, making her presence eternally active and potent.
  • Sun God’s Devotion: The temple’s solar alignment reinforces the belief that even Surya Bhagavan bows to Karumariamman, elevating her cosmic status.
  • Healing & Protection: Devotees seek relief from illness, family disputes, and financial troubles through lamp offerings and turmeric rituals.
  • Fertility & Marriage Blessings: Women pray for childbirth, marital harmony, and career success, often tying yellow threads or placing cradles near the sanctum.

Temple Hours

  • Opening Time: 5:00 AM
  • Closing Time: 9:00 PM

Special pujas like Ko Pooja, Kalasandhi, and Ucchikala Pooja are performed at scheduled slots throughout the day.

Getting Here

By Air

  • Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (~25 km)

By Train

  • Nearest Stations: Avadi (~10 km), Chennai Central (~20 km)
  • Well-connected to major cities across Tamil Nadu

By Road

  • Frequent buses from Poonamallee, Ambattur, Avadi, and Chennai city
  • Local autos and taxis available from nearby hubs

Accommodation

  • Thiruverkadu & Poonamallee:
    • Budget lodges and guest houses available within 5–10 km radius
    • Ideal for short stays and festival visits
  • Chennai City:
    • Wide range of hotels from budget to luxury
    • Suitable for pilgrims combining temple visits with city travel

No formal guesthouse inside the temple, but arrangements are often made during major festivals.

Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: October to June (pleasant weather and festival season)
  • Solar Phenomenon: Visit during Panguni and Purattasi to witness the sun’s rays falling on the deity’s feet
  • Carry Essentials: Water, snacks, and basic medical supplies—especially during crowded Sundays
  • Photography: Allowed in outer areas; restricted inside sanctum
  • Online Darshan Booking: Free darshan tickets available online with ID proof; limited quota per slot

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