About this Sacred Grove

Omalur Chinnapapatti Periyandichi sacred grove near Omalur, Salem District dedicated to Periyandichi Amman, powerful elder mother goddess, protector of children and remover of evil spirits. Legend narrates Periyandichi as giant lady with winnowing basket swept away a demon possessing fields that caused crop failure and child sickness, vanquished it and settled under sacred tree. Strong taboo prohibits felling, lopping and even entering with footwear. Has small seasonal streamlet / odai flowing at edge as water source. Biodiversity of 1.4 ha is dry thorn scrub with neem,  harboring snakes, monitor lizards, hares, partridges and butterflies preserved by intense fear and devotion to the Goddess.

Location

Coordinates: 11.6261010, 77.9550780

Plants / Species (4)