Arulmigu Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple

The Arulmigu Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Bannari, an avatar of Shakti, the divine feminine. It is located near Sathyamangalam in the Erode district of Tamil Nadu, India.

Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple History:

The Crying Baby: A couple from the Vannar community went to wash clothes by a river near a hill. The woman, pregnant, went into labor. The husband used his sari to help deliver their twins. One baby wouldn’t stop crying. They placed her in a trough and went for help. Upon returning, the baby still cried. They tried to soothe her with iron tongs, and the wife had strange wounds. Legend says the goddess transformed into the crying baby. In a dream, the goddess instructed them to hold a festival where they’d find her idol embedded in a neem tree. The villagers followed her instructions and found the idol, which remains the temple’s center.

The Protector of Travelers: Another legend suggests a villager entered a trance and relayed a divine message. The deity, Bannari Amman, protected traders traveling from Tamil Nadu to Mysore on this route. The villagers were instructed to build a temple for her, solidifying her place as the region’s guardian deity.

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Significance of Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple:

Religious Devotion: It’s dedicated to Bannari, a form of the goddess Shakti, associated with rain and protection. Many villages in the Kongu region have Mariamman temples, reflecting the deep devotion to this aspect of the divine feminine.

Folklore and Legends: Legends surround the temple’s origin, including stories of miraculous milk from a cow and a villager receiving divine messages about the importance of the site. These stories add to the temple’s mystique and spiritual significance for devotees.

Petitions and Offerings: Devotees visit the Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple seeking blessings for various needs, including healing from illness, agricultural bounty, overcoming obstacles to marriage, and childbirth. A unique custom involves offering salt and pepper to the goddess after wishes are fulfilled.

Potential Historical Significance: There are legends about the Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple facing resistance during British rule, but eventually gaining permission for construction. While verification is needed, this story highlights the temple’s potential connection to the region’s history.

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Myths and Beliefs of Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple:

The Origin Myth: Legend says a couple from the Vannar community were washing clothes by a river when the wife unexpectedly went into labor. She gave birth to twins, but one wouldn’t stop crying. They placed the crying baby in a trough and went for help. Upon returning, the baby was still upset. The next morning, they found the baby transformed into the goddess Mariamman herself! The goddess instructed them, in a dream, to hold a festival where they would find her idol embedded in a neem tree. This is said to be the origin of the temple’s idol, which remains unchanged to this day.

Mariamman – The Powerful Goddess: Mariamman is considered an avatar of Parvathi, the wife of Lord Shiva. She is seen as a fierce protector, particularly associated with rain, health, and warding off evil spirits. People believe she holds immense power and can grant wishes and blessings.

The Panguni Kundam Festival: This annual festival is a major celebration at the temple. It commemorates the story of the couple and the finding of the idol. Devotees participate in various rituals, including a dramatic fire walk (kundam) believed to cleanse them of sins and bring good fortune.

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Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple Timing and Rituals:

Temple Timings:

• The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
• During the annual festival (Panguni Kundam Festival) which falls in March/April, the timings may vary.

Rituals:

• Abhishekam: This is a sacred bath performed on the idol of the deity. Devotees believe that participating in abhishekam washes away sins and brings good fortune. Milk, turmeric, curd, ghee, honey, vibhuti (sacred ash), and panchamruta (a mixture of five nectars) are some of the common offerings used during abhishekam.
• Deepam: Devotees offer lamps with oil or ghee, signifying the dispelling of darkness and ignorance.
• Archana: This involves offering prayers, flowers, and incense to the deity.
• Sashtanga Namaskaram: Devotees prostrate themselves fully on the ground before the deity, as a sign of complete surrender and devotion.
• The Panguni Kundam Festival: This annual festival is the most prominent celebration at the Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple. It commemorates the story of the couple and the finding of the idol. Devotees participate in various rituals, including a dramatic fire walk (kundam) believed to cleanse them of sins and bring good fortune.

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Bannari Amman Temple Festival 2024 Date:

• Date: The Kundam Festival will take place on March 26, 2024.
• Significance: Devotees from various directions gather at the temple during this auspicious occasion.
• Local Holiday: The Erode district observes a local holiday on this day.

Places to visit near Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple:

1. Bhavani Sagar Dam: This dam is located on the Bhavani River near the temple. It’s a scenic spot where you can enjoy the view of the dam and the surrounding landscapes.
2. Siruvani Waterfalls: About 30 kilometers from the temple, Siruvani Waterfalls is a picturesque spot nestled amidst dense forests. It’s known for its pristine beauty and is a great place for nature lovers.
3. Kovai Kutralam Falls: Located in the Western Ghats near Coimbatore, around 60 kilometers from the temple, Kovai Kutralam Falls is another beautiful waterfall worth visiting. It’s a popular tourist spot, especially during the monsoon season.
4. Marudhamalai Hill Temple: This temple is situated on a hill dedicated to Lord Murugan and is around 40 kilometers from the Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple. It’s known for its spiritual significance and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
5. Perur Pateeswarar Temple: Located in Coimbatore, approximately 60 kilometers away from the Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s one of the oldest temples in the region and is known for its architectural beauty.
6. Monkey Falls: Situated near Pollachi, about 90 kilometers from the temple, Monkey Falls is a captivating waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
7. Coimbatore: The city of Coimbatore itself offers various attractions including shopping centers, parks, museums, and temples. It’s about 70 kilometers away from the Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple.

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FAQ:

About the Temple

• Who is the main deity?

The main deity is Goddess Bannari, an avatar of Goddess Shakti. She is associated with rain, health, and protection from evil spirits.

Where is the temple located?

Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple is located near Sathyamangalam, Erode district in Tamil Nadu, India.

History and Mythology

• What is the origin myth of the temple? Legend says a couple from the Vannar community found a baby girl who transformed into Goddess Bannari. The goddess instructed them to build a temple where her idol would be found embedded in a neem tree.
• What is the significance of the Panguni Kundam Festival? This annual festival celebrates the finding of the idol and the story of the couple. Devotees participate in rituals, including a fire walk believed to bring good fortune.

Visiting the Temple

• When is the best time to visit? The temple is open year-round, but the busiest time is during the Panguni Kundam Festival in March/April.
• Are there any dress codes? Devotees are expected to dress modestly. Men should ideally wear dhotis or kurtas, and women should wear sarees or salwar kameez. Shoes are not allowed inside the temple.

Festivals and Events

• What is the date of the Panguni Kundam Festival in 2024?
• The festival already took place in 2024 on March 25th and 26th.

How to reach Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple:

1. By Air: The nearest major airport to Bannari is Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), which is approximately 75 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other modes of transportation to reach Sri Bannari Mariamman Temple.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Bannari is Erode Junction (ED), which is about 45 kilometers away. From Erode, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bannari.
3. By Road: Bannari is well-connected by roads. You can reach Bannari by bus or hire a taxi from nearby towns like Erode, Coimbatore, or other major cities in Tamil Nadu.

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