About this Sacred Grove

Muthukulathur Dharma Muneeswaran is a revered guardian deity in Muthukulathur village, Ramanathapuram District, known as deity of dharma, justice and village protection. According to legend, a powerful vengeful spirit named Kattan had taken residence in nearby scrub forest, causing harm to villagers, damaging crops, frightening travellers and bringing misfortune. Villagers plagued by its malevolence sought Dharma Muneeswaran's help and performed special ritual at His shrine in the grove. Muneeswaran in divine form with aruval descended into forest, fought valiantly and after prolonged struggle vanquished and banished the spirit. Villagers celebrated with grand festival. The 1.6 ha sacred grove is His powerful abode protected by strong taboo against tree cutting. The grove contains a small seasonal pond which acts as important water source for birds and animals during summer, and supports biodiversity with neem, Prosopis, peepal, harboring jackals, hares, peacocks, parakeets, snakes and medicinal plants, conserved due to faith.

Location

Coordinates: 9.3520550, 78.5144370

Plants / Species (6)