SALEM - KOTTAI MARIAMMAN TEMPLE

The river as its name signifies was always flowing to the banks in the bygone past and there were pearls found in it then. The Mother was adorned with a wide variety of necklaces and gold chains studded with those pearls. Even bangles and crown too were profusely fitted with those dazzling white pearls. So the river was called Thirumanimuthar. An ingenious interpretation. And a standing proof of the glorification of the river and the Mother too.

The temple being a prototype of Dravidian architectural design has prakaras, mandandapas and mini-shrines for many adorable deities. In one of the niches of the northern prakara, the statues of Madurai Veeran and his consorts are seen and they are venerated with due rituals. In the southern, side there is shed for the temple elephant is used during processions. The Mother's icon is artistically sculptured with right leg hanging down and left bent to the right side. She reveals Abhaya and Varada with her right and left hands. Agamic worship is offered daily, and in the annual festival falling in Adi mass heavy unmanageable crowds visit and offer special pujas to the Mother. Navaratri days are another gala days, when the compound overflows with crowds. Special illuminations and colourful decorations feast the eyes and fill the souls with her grace.

It is in the heart of the Salem town and can be reached by walk or town bus from any part.

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