Sathangudi Aiyanar Temple (Thirumangalam)
Sathangudi Aiyanar is the supreme guardian deity of Sathangudi village, Melur Taluk, Madurai. Worshipped as Dharma Sastha.
About this Sacred Grove
Sathangudi Aiyanar is the supreme guardian deity of Sathangudi village, Melur Taluk, Madurai. Worshipped as Dharma Sastha, he protects the village, cattle and crops riding a white horse with his retinue. Legend says hunters saw a majestic royal figure on horseback with hunting dogs disappear into a dense Neem-Banyan grove. Inside, they found a stone idol of Aiyanar with Karuppasami. A shrine was built there and the surrounding grove was declared sacred. No tree is felled and hunting is forbidden.Villagers believe Aiyanar patrols the village at night ensuring peace and justice. Terracotta horses are offered during festivals for protection and prosperity.
Location
Coordinates: 9.8460320, 77.9354540
Open in Google Maps ↗Plants / Species (4)
Gulmohar
Delonix regia (Boj. Ex Hook.) Raf.- Individual Count
- 4
Indian mulberry
Morinda tinctoria Roxb.- Individual Count
- 6
Neem
Azadirachta indica A. Juss.- Individual Count
- 3
Rain tree
Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merr.- Individual Count
- 1