Padagacheri, a village near Kumbakonam, is special for many reasons. According to legend, the place got its name as Sita’s padagam (anklet) fell at this place. Vettar runs north-south in this hamlet situated three km from Alangudi. Ramalinga Swamigal, a mendicant, whose mission was to renovate temples and build new ones lived there.
Padagacheri Mahan, as he is referred to, would visit every house in the village and collect money for this purpose. Endowed with healing powers, he is said to have cured people of many ailments. His name is associated with the massive annadanam that he would organise on full moon days and during festivals.
The village will be witnessing the consecration of five temples on August 24. The deity of the Vishnu temple has been housed in a thatched shed for the past 250 years. Said to delight the devotees by granting them their wishes, the deity acquired the name, Kandu Ulam Magizhnda Perumal. The renovation committee and the villagers are eagerly waiting for the day the deity will move into the temple. “It has taken more than a year. Work has progressed depending on the availability of funds,” they say.
The deity of the Siva temple is Pasupatiswarar. The Lord, goes the story, who was doing penance was covered by an anthill, and was worshipped by Parvathi and a cow that shed milk on the anthill. Hence the name. The deity’s consort is Soundaranayaki.
Consecration will also take place for Shenbaga Vinayakar and Sri Baladandayuthapani, installed by Padagacheri Mahan, and Aiswarya Anjaneya. The kumbabishekam timings are 6.30 a.m. (Vinayakar and Baladandayuthapani) and 9.15-10.30 (Pasupatiswarar, Kandu Ulam Magizhnda Perumal and Anjaneya). Preliminary rituals begin on August 21 and cultural events such as dance and music are on the agenda. For details contact 9952848340, 28152533 and 9840053289.
