Petti Kali Amman is a revered deity worshipped in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. The temple dedicated to her is known for its deep-rooted cultural and spiritual significance. Devotees believe that Petti Kali Amman possesses immense protective powers and grants blessings to those who seek her divine grace. The temple attracts numerous pilgrims, especially during festivals, when special poojas and rituals are performed. The name “Petti Kali” is associated with a sacred legend, emphasizing the goddess’s role in protecting her devotees. The temple stands as a symbol of faith, tradition, and the rich heritage of Kumbakonam.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Sri Abirami Sundareswarar Temple, popularly known as Peti Kaliamman Koil, is a highly revered Hindu temple in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva (Sri Abirami Sundareswarar) and Goddess Parvati (Sri Abirami Amman). The shrine is related with a divine encounter between Goddess Abirami and the great Tamil poet-saint Abirami Pattar. According to mythology, Abirami Pattar, an enthusiastic devotee of Goddess Abirami, once incorrectly predicted to the monarch that the full moon would come on a new moon day (Amavasya). The infuriated king ordered him to be punished if his forecast failed. As the time approached, Abirami Pattar made passionate prayers to the Goddess. Goddess Abirami was pleased with his devotion and hurled her earring (Thaadanga) into the sky, converting it into a full moon to save her lover. Overwhelmed by this miraculous miracle, Abirami Pattar wrote the classic song "Abirami Anthathi," which is still performed in honor of the Goddess. The temple is also affiliated with Peti Kaliamman, a violent aspect of Goddess Kali who is revered for her protective and motherly qualities. Devotees believe she bestows courage, fortune, and protection from bad powers.
- Name of the Deities Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva). Abhirami Ambal (Parvathi). Petti Kaliamman.
- Nearby Cities and Distance Thanjavur (42.3 km). Mayiladuthurai (33.3 km). Trichy (105.3 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Bus. Car. Train. Auto.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Thanjavur 41 min (42.3 km).
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Bus - Rs.30 to Rs.50. Car - Rs.800 to Rs.1500. Train - Rs.30 to Rs.100. Auto - Rs.400 to Rs.600
- Temple Instructions Visitors should dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting the temple's main sanctum.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Major Hindu festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Navaratri, and Thai Poosam are celebrated grandly, attracting devotees from various regions.
- Rituals Available Not Available
- Offerings Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and other items to the deities, with specific rituals carried out by the priests. The temple also encourages participation in chanting mantras and offering prayers.
- Prasadham At the Sri Abirami Sundareswarar Temple, also known as the Petti Kaliamman Temple in Kumbakonam, prasadham offerings are quite unique and tied to the temple’s rituals. The main deity, Petti Kaliamman, is never removed from her box and is worshipped primarily on Fridays and Sundays during the Rahu Kala period. On these days, specific offerings are made, such as milk, curd (known as
- Benefits of Visiting Devotees visit the temple seeking blessings for prosperity, well-being, and relief from hardships.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? No
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year No
- Other things to do / places of interest Mahamaham Tank (6.0 km). Srinivasa Ramanujam Monument (4.0 km). Sri vittal Rukmani Samasthanam (9.5 km). The Great Chola Temple, Airavatesvara (8.8 km).
- Nearby Temples Adi Kumbeswarar Temple. Sarangapani Temple. Ramaswamy Temple. Chakrapani Temple. Kasi Viswanathar Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Mangalambika Coffee & Tiffin Center. Venkataramana Hotel. Rayas Mess. Thanmayi Restaurant. Kumbakonam Murari Sweets.
- Hotels / Home stays: Kumbakonam Homestay. Aboorva Grand Inn. Maha Periyava Kuteeram. Sri Abbirami Lodge. Thirumalai Home Stay
- Standard Weather It has a tropical climate, with distinct hot, humid, and rainy seasons.
- For the best experience / Must know The temple is also known as Peti Kaliamman Koil, probably due to local mythology and rituals around Goddess Kali. The temple's architecture is classic Dravidian, with beautiful sculptures and a serene atmosphere.
- Not to miss Goddess Peti Kaliamman, a unique form of Goddess Kali, is adorned with great devotion. The celestial presence of Goddess Abirami, known for bestowing boons on believers. The temple features long-standing legends about Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali. Experience the temple's quiet and divine environment. Special poojas and annual celebrations, particularly during Navaratri, are not to be missed.
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FAQ's
What is the significance of the Petti Kali Amman Temple?
The temple is famous for its unique origin story. According to legend, a wooden box ("petti" in Tamil) was found floating in the Kaveri River, containing an idol of Kali. When the box was opened, a young girl present started speaking in Malayalam and Prakrit, believed to be divine instructions on how the goddess should be worshipped. The idol was initially kept in a thatched shed and later enshrined in the temple. Because of this story, the deity is called Petti Kali Amman.
Where is the temple located?
The Petti Kali Amman Temple is situated in Koranattu Karuppur, near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu.
When is the idol taken out of the temple?
The idol is taken out only once a year, during the Uttarayanam period (northward movement of the sun). A grand procession is held with wind instruments and drums.
Who has worshipped at this temple?
It is said that the Chalukya King Vikramaditya (11th–12th century) may have worshipped Petti Kali Amman, though some believe this is a confusion with Ujjain Mahakali. The temple is also mentioned in Tevaram and other ancient texts.
When can devotees see the Petti Kali Amman idol?
The wooden box is only opened during Rahu Kalam on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays for special pujas. Devotees believe that people affected by Rahu-Ketu Dosha, Puthra Dosha, and black magic can seek relief here.
What are the temple’s unique rules for devotees?
Men who shaved on the same day are not allowed inside. Pregnant women and women who have taken a head bath are also discouraged from entering on certain days.
