Kanniyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, is named after Goddess Kanniyakumari Amman, the presiding deity of the region. The Kumari Amman Temple, one of the most famous temples in Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Goddess Parvathi in her virgin form and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
Mythological Significance of Kanniyakumari :
According to Hindu mythology, Banusura, a powerful demon king, gained dominance over the Devas (gods) and tormented them. To seek relief, the Devas performed a Yagna, praying for divine intervention. Answering their prayers, Goddess Parasakthi appeared in Kanniyakumari as a young maiden and undertook a deep penance.
During this time, Lord Shiva fell in love with her, and their wedding was planned for midnight on an auspicious day. However, Sage Narada foresaw that Banusura could only be defeated by a virgin. To prevent the marriage, Narada took the form of a rooster and crowed before dawn. Believing the auspicious time had passed, Lord Shiva returned to his abode, and Goddess Kanniyakumari vowed to remain a virgin forever.
When Banusura tried to forcefully marry her, the Goddess defeated and killed him using her divine weapon, Chakragudha, thus saving the Devas from his tyranny. She then resumed her penance, continuing to be worshipped as a virgin goddess.
Temple Information & Visitor Guide
- Temple Name: Bhagavathi Amman Temple (Kumari Amman Temple)
- Location: Kanniyakumari, Tamil Nadu
- Deity: Goddess Kanniyakumari (Virgin Parvathi)
- Temple Timings:
- Morning: 4:30 AM – 12:15 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:15 PM
Festivals & Best Time to Visit
- Car Festival (May/June) – A grand celebration attracting thousands of devotees.
- Navaratri Festival (September/October) – A vibrant nine-day festival honoring the Goddess.
Plan Your Pilgrimage to Kanniyakumari
Kanniyakumari is not just a spiritual destination but also a place of breathtaking natural beauty, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet. Whether you’re a devotee seeking divine blessings or a traveler exploring historical temples, a visit to Kumari Amman Temple is a must.
.