About this Sacred Grove

Muthukulathur Pechiamman is a revered mother goddess in Muthukulathur village, Ramanathapuram District, known as guardian of village and deity of protection, fertility and justice, her tales highlight motherly affection, valor and divine intervention in times of need. According to legend, a powerful and vengeful spirit named Kalingi had taken residence in the nearby forest, causing harm to villagers, scaring women and children, damaging crops and bringing illness and misfortune. The villagers plagued by Kalingi's malevolence sought Pechiamman's help and performed special ritual at Her shrine in the grove. Pechiamman in Her divine fierce form descended into the forest where Kalingi resided, fought valiantly and after prolonged struggle managed to vanquish and banish the spirit from the land. The villagers celebrated Her victory with grand festival expressing gratitude for protection. The 1.6 ha sacred grove is Her powerful abode protected by strong taboo that cutting trees invites Her wrath, preserving rich biodiversity.

Location

Coordinates: 9.3488310, 78.5121110

Plants / Species (7)