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The
Union territory of Pondicherry
though came under the administration of France and imbibed the French fragrance
to some extent, it retained its rich Indian ness and kept aloft the banner of
Hindu Dharma ever fluttering. There are scores of superb monuments declaring proudly
its land's glory, and among them temples come first. Both in and out of
Pondicherry its
capital there are great, ancient shrines that deserve visitation and adoration.
An eighteenth century temple dedicated to Mother Mariamman lying in the coastal
village called Virampattinam is luring devotees throughout the year. It is
popular as Sengaghuneeramman and famous for extending succor to the star-crossed
people. She is reputed for her liberal grant of boons to the pious devotees and
so is exercising her hold. on the mass particularly. Epidemic diseases are
scared at her very name itself and people out of their steadfast belief and rich
experience rush to her sannidhi when confronted with problems of all types.
Regular daily worship is offered with great devotional fervor. During Brahmotsav
and Muthupallak festival celebrated for days in the July-August, thousands of
devotees visit and offer special prayers and redeem the vows taken. It is a gala
celebration of the year. Big fair is held to cater to the needs of mass and it
supplies all kinds of commodities adequate for one year. The temple built in the
Dravidian architectural style possesses all the parts, like prakara towers,
courtyards etc.
It
lies about 8 km off Pondicherry, accessibly as bus and auto.
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