Kanavai Gate Chinnasami (Usilampatti)
Kanavai Gate Chinnasami is the powerful border guardian deity of Kanavai village near Usilampatti, Madurai District. Worshipped as a fierce form of Karuppasamy, Chinnasami is believed to be the watchman of the Kanavai mountain pass (Gate).
About this Sacred Grove
Kanavai Gate Chinnasami is the powerful border guardian deity of Kanavai village near Usilampatti, Madurai District. Worshipped as a fierce form of Karuppasamy, Chinnasami is believed to be the watchman of the Kanavai mountain pass (Gate). Legend says centuries ago when dacoits attacked travellers and cattle through the pass, a tall black figure with a mustache, wielding an aruval and riding a horse, appeared and chased them away. The next morning villagers found a stone idol smeared with vibhuti and kumkum at the entrance of the pass and built a shrine. It is believed Chinnasami still patrols the Gate at night, protecting travellers, ensuring safe passage, and granting justice, courage and prosperity to those who offer cigar, cock and Pongal with faith.
Location
Coordinates: 9.9184810, 77.7917540
Open in Google Maps ↗Plants / Species (3)
Mahua
Madhuca longifolia (J.Konig) J.F.Macbr.- Individual Count
- 1
Neem
Azadirachta indica A. Juss.- Individual Count
- 7
Wild tamarind
Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.)de Wit- Individual Count
- 2