About this Sacred Grove

Rasakkapatti Petchiyamman and Virumandi Temple is the powerful guardian shrine of Rasakkapatti village, near Usilampatti, Madurai District. Petchiyamman is worshipped as the fierce mother who devours evil, while Virumandi is her courageous brother and protector. Legend says during a severe plague and village quarrels, an elder dreamt of a dark mother with an open mouth and fiery eyes sitting at the village entrance, saying her brother Virumandi would punish wrongdoers. The next morning villagers found self-manifested stones smeared with turmeric and vermillion at the outskirts. A temple was built there for both. It is believed Petchiyamman protects children from disease and evil eye, while Virumandi brings justice and keeps thieves and evil spirits away. Devotees offer Pongal, goat sacrifice and cradle offerings for child boon and family peace.

Location

Coordinates: 9.8854670, 77.7628890

Plants / Species (6)