Periyachi Amman's history is one of the most intriguing and fascinating pieces of Tamil religion. Over 600 years old, her legacy is primarily carried on by the Tamil diaspora in Southeast Asia. Unlike our Hindu gods, Periyachi Amman is revered as a deity due to her heroic deeds.
Let’s dive into her historical background..
Around 1400 A.D., Periyachi was a maruthuvachi (doctor) in Kondithoppu village in Thondai Nadu (now Chennai, India). Renowned for her expertise in delivering babies, she was also skilled in martial arts, including sword fighting and spear throwing.
In 1406 A.D., King Vallalan IV, son of Rajanarayana Sambuvarayar III (1356 - 1375 AD), was dethroned and had turned to banditry while hiding in the jungle. When his wife Kaarkuzhali went into labour, Periyachi was forcibly brought to the forest to assist in the delivery, under challenging conditions. Vallalan, a firm believer in astrology, insisted that the baby should not touch the ground.
Periyachi skillfully performed a Caesarean section while seated on a boulder, successfully delivering the baby. However, when Vallalan attempted to kill both Periyachi and the new-born based on his astrologer's advice, Periyachi displayed her martial prowess. She killed Vallalan and his wife, saving the baby, whom she later raised as her own, naming him Seeralan.
Her heroic deeds and legacy
Periyachi's act of bravery made her a hero, praised for saving the baby's life and eliminating the bandit king who terrorized Thondai Nadu. She became an icon among pregnant women, celebrated for her assurance of the safety of babies. Tamil folklore lauds her as the best obstetrician and paediatrician.
Temples and Memorials
The first Periyachi Temple was erected in Kondithoppu village around 1475 A.D., soon after her death. It served as a memorial; a tradition known as "nadukkal." Her foster son Seeralan became the first priest of this temple, which attracted pregnant women, mothers with sick infants, and women praying for fertility.
Periyachi Amman's fame spread, leading to the establishment of thousands of temples in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The first temple abroad was built in Malaysia in the early 14th century by Tamil traders, now known as Malacca Chitty. While her legacy remains strong in Malaysia and Singapore, Periyachi Amman temples in Tamil Nadu have declined, often converted to Shakti or Kali temples for financial and governmental support. Today, Chennai, her hometown, has no known Periyachi temples, with only a few remaining in Tamil Nadu, facing the threat of demolition due to lack of funds.
The Tamil diaspora in Malaysia and Singapore has maintained her legacy, though many temples in Malaysia have been demolished recently. Notable temples include the Devi Sri Periyachi Amman Temple in Penang, Malaysia, and secondary deity status in Veeramakaliamman Temple and Mariamman Temple in Singapore. Some temples also exist in Mauritius and Fiji.
Beliefs and Practices
Women worship Periyachi Amman through various life stages:
- Non-Pregnant Women: Infertile women or those desiring pregnancy pray to her daily, often bringing offerings.
- Pregnant Women: Upon achieving pregnancy, they provide free food at the temple and donate saris.
- Newborn Babies: Seven days after birth, babies are placed at Periyachi's feet for blessings and healing.
- Sick Children: Ill children are brought to the temple for prayers and healing rituals, with the priest offering solutions believed to be divinely inspired.
The Tamil month of Aadi (July-August) is significant for Periyachi Amman rituals, with worship occurring primarily on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Periyachi Amman belongs to the Tamil or Dravidian religion, not the dominant Hindu religion in India. Her name is derived from "Amma Aana" (the woman who became the mother). Misidentification with the Hindu goddess Kali has led to name changes, such as "Periyachi Kali Amman."
Periyachi temples are at risk of extinction within 50 years unless actively rebuilt and renovated. The future generation may lose knowledge of this great hero unless efforts are made to preserve her legacy. The Tamil diaspora, particularly in Malaysia and Singapore, plays a crucial role in maintaining her memory.
The story of Periyachi Amman intertwined with medical advancements and heroic deeds, continues to inspire and be remembered by the Tamil community worldwide.
Source / Image Credit : Quanta of Light, Universal Divine Art, Shaatish Art
Revathi
Fri Jul 26 2024
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