About this Sacred Grove

Keelathooval Muniappa Swamy is a highly revered guardian deity worshipped in Keelathooval village, Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu. Muniappa Swamy, in Tamil folk tradition, is a Muni and kaval deivam associated with rural boundaries and night protection. According to local legend, he was a powerful ascetic warrior who lived in ancient times, known for exceptional spiritual power, bravery and justice. He protected villagers from evil spirits, thieves and injustice at night. After his death, he was deified as Muni and a shrine was built in his honor in 3.4 ha sacred grove. The grove is his fierce abode, protected with taboo that cutting trees will cause Muni anger, spirit attack and misfortune, hence well preserved.

Location

Coordinates: 9.4072820, 78.5449000

Plants / Species (10)