Mangala Devi Kannagi temple is one of the ancient important temples in India. The temple is dedicated to Kannagi, a legendary Tamil woman and the central character of the Tamil epic Silapathikaram. Mangala Devi Kannagi temple, exhibiting the religious sentiments of the people of the yesteryears, is visited by pilgrims who offer worship at the feet of the goddess and receive her blessings. The temple celebrates the festival of Chitra Pournami.
Location of Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple
It is located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It is situated about 7 km from Pazhiyankudi in Theni district and 15 km from Thekkadi of Idukki District, Kerala. It sits at an altitude of about 1337m above the sea level.
History of Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple
The temple was erected by ancient Chera king Cheran Chenguttuvan, the king of ancient Tamilakam, for Kannagi around 2000 years back at Vannathiparai. He called it Kannagi Kottam or Mangaladevi Kannagi temple and performed regular pujas.
Legend of Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple
Legend has it that a distraught Kannagi burnt down Madurai after her husband Kovalan was wrongly accused of being a thief and killed. After burning Madurai, she reached Suruli hills to avenge the injustice done to her husband. She reached heaven in a pushpaka vimana.
Later, Chera senguttuvan camping on the banks of Periyar came to know about Kannagi"s story by Koola-vanigan Sattanar. The younger prince Ilango was fascinated by the characterization of Kannagi. Thus, he founded the temple in her memory. Locals believe that the stone for the idol was brought from the Himalayas.
Attractions of Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple
Pilgrims from various parts of the region and the country visit this holy site. It remains closed throughout the year except during the Chitra Pournami festival that is celebrated by the temple authorities on a grand scale with much rejoicing and festivity. During other times, pilgrims can also visit the temple by receiving a special letter from the forest ranger.
The other attraction of this ancient temple is its scenic beauty. This pilgrimage centre is set amidst lush greenery. The panoramic view of the temple premises enthralls the heart of the tourists. One can also get a glimpse of the Eastern Ghats Mountain Range and some villages from here.
