Nangavaram Pidari Amman Temple

Nangavaram, situated roughly 30 kilometers away from Trichy city in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, harbors an ancient Chola-era temple dedicated to Pidari Amman. This article will delve into the intricacies of this temple.

In the Tamil Nadu region, numerous Grama devta (village deity) temples are titled "Pidari temple." However, these temples commonly feature Sapta Matas (Seven Mothers) within their sanctums. Likewise, within this temple's sanctum, Sapta Matas, along with Ganesha and Ayyanar, are enshrined. Among the seven Matas, the central one is known as Pidari, and within this temple, she is referred to as Pidari Satthayi. Revered within this region, this temple holds significance for many villages, considering Pidari Satthayi as their Kula devta (family deity).

The sanctum itself stands as a testament to its ancient origins, tracing back to the Chola period. Intriguingly, the sanctum lacks any niche images. While the Vimana (tower) bears signs of renovation and later-period painting, it still carries the historical essence.

Expansions have been added to the temple using concrete structures to accommodate additional village deities. Within this expanded section, a sub-shrine is dedicated to Malayala Swami. Within the shrine, a substantial stucco image of the deity commands attention. This formidable depiction portrays the deity holding a large sickle in the right hand. Positioned at the shrine's entrance is a stone image of the same deity.

Beyond the temple's confines, within an open expanse, stands a sizable stucco image of a male deity donning a vivid blue hue. This deity is depicted riding a horse, with the horse's front legs resting upon the heads of two soldiers. Known as Sevugarayan, this village deity stands as a distinct presence.

Happy travelling.