The idol of Mother Jeshtadevi appears different in this temple. There is a misconception that Jeshtadevi, usually said to be the elder sister of Sri Mahalakshmi is considered an inauspicious Goddess causing poverty and no endeavour would be successful if She comes on our way. But She protects all from all hardships and dangers. She makes people always awake. She was the family deity of Pallava king Nandi Varman.
Those who worship Sakthi with Meru Mount – vertical form of Sri Chakra, use to perform the pujas with nine mounts, called Navabaranas-9 jewels. Mother Jeshtadevi is the second Meru-Jewel. There is a place of for Jeshtadevi in Mother Akhilandeswari Temple in Tiruvanaikaval. She has her place in this Uyyakondon Tirumalai temple also. Mother Jeshtadevi in this temple is holding two children in Her hands, one appearing as Nandi the bull vehicle of Lord Shiva. This child is called Madan as it looks like a Madu-bull. The other is a beautiful girl baby called Chedi, the maid of Mother Shakti and also the deity of words. Mother Adi Parasakthi is in the form of Mother Jeshtadevi who has brought the Chedi the deity of words – Vak Devatha. Devotees may protect themselves from accidents in life by worshipping Mother Jeshtadevi.
The temple is on a 50 feet tall hill. There are five sacred springs around the temple – Ponnoli Odai, Kudamurutti, Gnanavavi, Enkonakinaru and Narkonakinaru. Mother graces in the temple with Gajal around Her eyes named Anjanakshi. Other Ambica in the temple is praised as Balambika. Pujas are performed to both separately. As Lord Shiva gave a re-birth to Markandeya Rishi, He is revered as Ujjevanathar. As He grants all the wishes of the devotees, He is praised as Karpaganathar. Lord is a swyambu.
The temple is aesthetically constructed on this 50 feet tall hill. Karan, one of the brothers of Ravana had worshipped the Lord Shiva in this temple. There are 3 entrances to the temple, two facing south and one east. |