Kamatchi Maha Mari Amman - Nagapattinam

The Kamatchi Maha Mari Amman temple, situated in Seerkali, is known for its unique features and significance. The temple's main tower, facing the East, is called the raja Kopuram. It is adorned with a tall trident (shoolam), a Neem tree, and a tall flag post. In addition to the presiding deity, Kamatchi Maha Mari Amman, the temple also houses shrines dedicated to Lord Vinayaka, Uthirapathiar, Kathavarayan, Bommi, Aryamala, Chinnan, Muneeswarar, Karuppannasami, Pechi Amman, and many other deities.

The temple holds a special place for those seeking protection from evil eye, black magic, and witchcraft. Various rituals and prayers are performed here to ward off negative energies. Childless couples also visit the temple with the hope of attaining fertility. It is believed that consuming the Padayal rice offered at the temple can bless them with a child. Additionally, during the months of November to December, special prayers are dedicated to the seven damsels (Sapta Kannigal) present in the temple.

According to the legend associated with the temple, a powerful giant named Kartha Veerajuna once terrorized the devas and Rishis, capturing even the sacred cow Kamadenu. In his rampage, he beheaded Sage Jadamuni and his sons, leaving only Parahasuran alive. Filled with rage and seeking revenge, Parahasuran vowed to behead all the family members of Kartha Veerajuna for 27 generations. Renuka Devi, the wife of Jadamuni, unable to bear the loss, sacrificed herself in the pyre. However, Lord Shiva saved her by pouring rain and revealed her divine powers as a part of Devi Parvathi. From that day onwards, Renuka Devi came to be known as Mari Amman.