Our Deities
The divine figures of the Kongu Kulalar community
Sri Valliamman
ஸ்ரீ வள்ளியம்மன்
The primary family deity (Kuladeivam) of the Kongu Kulalar community. After her husband Nambiyannan died from a snake bite, she proved her divinity to King Sahaji of Thanjavur by taming a wild elephant, then entered the sacred fire — leaving behind only her unburnt silk saree and a lemon as signs of her divine nature. She is revered as a source of grace and protection for all lineages of the community.
A powerful manifestation of Shakthi (Badrakali) enshrined on the banks of the Cauvery River in Pugalur, constructed in the traditions of ancient Siddhas. She bestows education, courage, wealth and protection upon her devotees. A shared deity among the Kongu Kulalar, Vettuva Gounders, and Brahmins — her three-day annual festival is a celebrated symbol of community unity.
Guardian deity enshrined beneath a tamarind tree in Pugalur. Originally a brave and powerful leader from the Kolli Hills, he was swept away by the Cauvery River after facing betrayal. Recognised by Goddess Kandiamman for his strength and courage, she accepted him as her guardian and granted him salvation. He is specifically venerated by the Periyannanmargal (Elder Brothers) lineage.
Family deity of the Nadu Annanmargal (Middle Brothers) lineage, whose idol was miraculously discovered inside a box in the Amaravathi River in 1937. She appeared in a dream in 1960, instructing the brothers to build her temple at the site of her discovery. The temple was consecrated in 1965, and her major festival is celebrated on the full moon of the Tamil month of Chittirai.
Lord Murugan in his form as Sri Dhandayuthapani at Palani is the focal deity of the Chinnannanmargal (Younger Brothers). The community upholds a centuries-old tradition of a rigorous 9-day Kavadi pilgrimage on foot, carrying sacred water and offerings to his hill temple. A permanent Mandapam built in Palani in 1994 accommodates the thousands of pilgrims from this lineage each year.
The beloved husband of Sri Valliamman and youngest son of Kandiyanna Velar, a lineage blessed by Goddess Kandiamman. His tragic death from a snake bite shortly after his marriage to Valliammai set in motion the events that led to her divine transformation. Though his life was brief, Nambiannan remains central to the origin story of the community's most sacred deity.