The Punnai Nallur Mariamman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, is a prominent Hindu temple located in Punnainallur, near Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Known for its rich historical and legendary significance, the temple attracts thousands of devotees throughout the year. Thanks to the generosity of its visitors, the temple has recently undergone renovations, enhancing its facilities and maintaining its cultural heritage. The temple’s grandeur is reflected in its architecture, including the impressive 90-foot high Rajagopuram.
The temple features three prakarams and various mandapams, such as the Arthamandapam and Mahamandapam. It is adorned with paintings of the Ashta Sakthi forms, illustrating the diversity of worship associated with the goddess. The sacred Neem tree serves as the Sthala Viruksham, while the temple’s sacred water source is the Mani Muktha Nadhi (Vadavar River). Devotees especially revere Sundays as auspicious days to pay homage to the goddess, creating a vibrant atmosphere of devotion and faith.
According to legend, a Chola king, Keerthi Cholan, prayed fervently to Goddess Mariamman for a child, and in response, he was blessed with a son. Another tale recounts King Venkoji Maharaja’s pilgrimage that led to the construction of this temple after he received a divine vision instructing him to build a shrine in the area filled with Punnai trees. This foundation story underscores the temple's significance and deep-rooted connection to the region’s history.
The Mariamman festival continues to be a major annual event, attracting around 20,000 visitors. Ritual practices include vows for healing smallpox, offering water, and donations in the form of cattle and other gifts. The temple's legacy is enriched by stories of miraculous cures and divine grace. Even Brahmins participate in the worship of local deities, indicating the temple's cultural inclusivity. Today, Punnai Nallur Mariamman Temple remains a beacon of faith and devotion for many.