Arulmigu
Sri Masani Amman Temple – Anaimalai, Pollachi
Introduction
The
Sri Masani Amman Temple, located in Anaimalai near Pollachi,
Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu, is one of the most revered shrines of Adi
Parashakti. Built nearly 1000 years ago, the temple is unique for
its depiction of the goddess in a 17-foot reclining posture, symbolizing
her cosmic power and compassion.
Presiding
Deity
- Masani Amman,
regarded as an incarnation of Parvati / Adi Parashakti.
- Seen in a lying
posture, measuring 15–17 feet from head to foot.
- Holds in her
four hands:
- Damaru
entwined with a snake
- Fire bowl
- Kumkuma bowl
- Trident
(Trishul)
Legends
& Origins
- Nannan’s
Mango Grove: A woman was executed for eating a
mango from King Nannan’s grove. Villagers deified her sacrifice,
worshipping her as Masani Amman.
- Sri Rama’s
Worship: It is believed that Lord Rama
worshipped Masani Amman here on his way to Lanka, making an idol of her in
reclining form from crematorium sand.
- Name Origin:
“Masani” may derive from mango in old Tamil or Smashani
(Sanskrit for crematorium).
Temple
Architecture
- Features a five-tier
Rajagopuram in Dravidian style.
- Built on
grasslands at the confluence of the Aliyar River and Uppar
stream, near the Anaimalai Hills.
- Other shrines
include Neethi Kall (Stone of Justice), Mahamuniappan,
Pechi, Durga, Mahishasuramardhini, Saptha Mathas, Vinayaka, Karupparayar,
Bhuvaneswari, and Bhairava.
Rituals
& Beliefs
- Red Chilli
Offering: Devotees offer ground red chillies
to seek justice and relief from ailments.
- Neethi Kall
(Justice Stone): Devotees place grievances in writing
or offer chillies; solutions are believed to arrive within 90 days.
- Pachilam
Marundu Prasad: A medicinal offering consumed by
women for child boon, relief from spells, and health issues during
puberty.
- Angapradakshinam
& Fire Walking: Devotees roll around the temple
or walk on fire pits as acts of devotion.
- Trident
Ritual: Walking around the trident is
believed to cure illnesses.
Festivals
- 18-day Thai
Festival (Jan–Feb) – The grand annual celebration.
- New Moon
Days, Tuesdays, and Fridays – Considered highly
auspicious.
- Special
Poojas: Kalasandhi, Uchikkala, Maalai, and
Sayaraksha performed daily.
Temple
Timings
- 6:00 AM –
8:00 PM
- Pooja
Schedule:
- 6:30 AM –
7:00 AM: Kalasandhi Pooja
- 11:30 AM –
12:00 PM: Uchikkala Pooja
- 4:00 PM –
4:30 PM: Maalai Pooja
- 6:30 PM –
7:00 PM: Sayaraksha Pooja
Best
Time to Visit
- September to
March – Pleasant weather and festive atmosphere.
- Thai Masam
(Jan–Feb) – For the grand annual festival.
Tips
for Devotees
- Wear traditional
attire for darshan.
- Participate
in the red chilli offering only with proper guidance.
- Visit during festival
days for vibrant celebrations.
- Explore
nearby Anaimalai Hills and Aliyar Dam for a complete
spiritual and scenic trip.
Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1.
Where is Masani Amman Temple located? In Anaimalai,
Pollachi, Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu, near the Aliyar River.
Q2.
What is unique about the deity? She is depicted in a reclining
posture, measuring 15–17 feet, holding symbolic items in her four hands.
Q3.
What is the significance of the Justice Stone?
Devotees place grievances or offer chillies, believing justice will be
delivered within 90 days.
Q4.
Which festivals are celebrated here? The 18-day Thai
Festival, along with New Moon days, Tuesdays, and Fridays.
Q5.
What is the temple’s prasad? Pachilam Marundu,
a medicinal offering believed to cure ailments and bless women with children.
Conclusion
The Sri Masani Amman Temple at Anaimalai is a rare and powerful shrine where faith, justice, and healing converge. With its unique reclining deity, sacred rituals, and vibrant festivals, it continues to be a beacon of devotion for thousands of devotees across Tamil Nadu and beyond.