Sri Chowdeshwari Amman Festival Edict of 1873

The following is the recorded proclamation detailing the 1873 festival of Sri Chowdeshwari Amman, organized by the Suranga Deva Maharishi Gotra of the Enthilar lineage.

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Introduction

Blessings to All!

In the Kali Yuga Year 4974, Salivahana Saka Year 1795, Gregorian Year 1873, and Tamil Year Tai (January), the 5th day, a historic event was documented regarding the divine festival and worship practices of Sri Chowdeshwari Amman by the revered community of Suranga Deva Maharishi Gotra. This inscription was written for future generations to preserve the details of this significant occasion.

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The Assembly

The Suranga Deva Maharishi Gotra, Enthilar lineage, consisting of ten thousand families, seven hundred sub-lineages, and the sacred Devanga Solar Dynasty, convened in Vadampacheri, Coimbatore district. A united group of seven elders, namely:

1. Periya Madamanai Poojari Muthi Chettiar
2. Periyaveettu Subbi Chettiar
3. Vadampacheri Kakkan Chettiar
4. Nallur Palayam Poojari Kariyan Chettiar
5. Vellalur Poojari Annamalai Chettiar
6. Vadampacheri Poojari Muthusamy Chettiar
7. Vadampacheri Poojari Vathanja Chettiar

Resolved to collectively worship at the Madamanai deity's sacred shrine with their community leaders' support and blessings.

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Seeking Divine Consent

To begin the festival and associated rituals, the elders invited local community leaders and relatives to discuss the proper protocol for worshiping the deity. The leaders provided guidance, affirming that divine approval must be sought with due respect and ceremony.

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Preparations for the Festival

The elders conducted a sacred gathering involving priests, lineage heads, and community representatives. The date was determined to commence the festival rituals, including setting up the fire pit (kunda) and performing the worship during the auspicious Margazhi month (mid-December to mid-January).

A distinguished elder, Kaji Chettiar from Sevvelar lineage, volunteered to initiate the fire-walking ceremony, reassuring others with his experience. On Margazhi 14th, the sacred fire ritual commenced, followed by a 15-day celebration culminating on Tai 5th with grand festivities.

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Key Rituals

1. Fire-Walking Ceremony:
   Fifteen representatives, including prominent members such as Periya Poojari Arunachalam Chettiar and his wife, walked fearlessly across the sacred fire (kunda), symbolizing their faith and devotion.

2. Offerings to Deities:
   Ritualistic offerings of turmeric, sacred ash, and clothing were made to five prominent temples:

   • Ponkulukki Kaadu Madamanai
   • Manur Palayam Malilar Temple
   • Anikkadavu Madamanai
   • Alambalayam Madamanai
   • Vadapalli Lathigaram Madamanai

3. Divine Worship and Procession:
   The idols of the deities were bathed in the sacred river and carried in grand processions accompanied by music and rituals.

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Sacred Gatherings and Celebrations

At the festival’s culmination, all community members, priests, and dignitaries offered their respects to the deities. Donations, including gold, clothing, and provisions, were made to the temples and the priests, symbolizing gratitude and reverence.

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Significance of the Event

This festival was a testament to the unity, devotion, and rich cultural heritage of the Devanga community. It reflected the deep-rooted traditions of worship, fire-walking rituals, and sacred offerings passed down through generations.

The historic gathering concluded with blessings, Vedic chants, and mutual respect among the community.