- February 19, 2026
| Temple | Arulmigu Devi Karumariamman Temple |
|---|---|
| Main Deity | Devi Karumariamman |
| Temple Tree (Sthala Vriksham) | Karuvela Tree (Acacia) |
| Holy Water (Theertham) | Velayutha Theertham (Thiruneetru Poigai) |
| Agama (Rituals) | Kamika |
| Mythological Name | Velangadu |
| Location | Thiruverkadu |
| District | Thiruvallur (Chennai) |
Hail to the Mother who showers her grace!
Hail to Thiruverkadu Mari who dissolves our past karmas!
Located in the Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu, the Arulmigu Devi Karumariamman Temple in Thiruverkadu is one of the most significant sites for Shakti worship. Situated about 18 km west of Chennai, this sacred shrine is revered as the compassionate Mother who removes the miseries of her devotees. Known as “Karu-vil-illatha Karumariamman” (The Mother who was not born from a womb), she is a powerful deity who fulfills the heartfelt prayers of her seekers.
In ancient times, this area was known as Velangadu, a dense forest of Vela trees. It later became known as Thiruverkadu. Legend tells of a snake mound (Putru) that existed here, which the locals worshipped as a deity. One day, the Goddess appeared in a devotee’s dream and commanded that a temple be built at that spot. Upon clearing the mound, Devi Karumariamman manifested as a Swayambhu (self-manifested) idol. Because she did not manifest through a human womb, she is called “Karuvil Illatha Karumari.”
According to mythology, following the advice of Sage Agastya, the Goddess took the form of a serpent (Maya Shakti) and ruled from a cave. She appeared in this form to grant grace in the Kali Yuga. The cave where she resided in serpent form still exists near the temple. She received sacred ash (Thiruneeru) from Lord Shiva to perform the five cosmic functions. About 1 km from this temple lies the Vedapureeswarar Temple, a site praised in the Tevaram (23rd shrine of Tondai Mandalam) and the birthplace of Moorka Nayanar.
The most significant feature of this temple is the “Padi Vilakku” (Stair Lamp), a lamp that burns eternally. Devotees believe that witnessing this lamp ensures there will be no scarcity in their families. To protect their homes, devotees tie threads to a vessel in the sanctum as a form of prayer.
At the Thiruchambal Poigai (snake mound water source), devotees offer sacred ash and vermillion to seek relief from Naga Dosham (snake-related afflictions). This temple is a famous “Parihara Sthalam” (remedy site) for removing obstacles to marriage, seeking progeny, and resolving debts, illnesses, and legal disputes. Neem leaves are offered as Prasadam, believed to cure all ailments.
Built according to the Kamika Agama, the temple features a Swayambhu idol of the Goddess beneath a Golden Vimana (tower). Behind her is a fierce form (Ugra) holding a sword, skull, drum, and trident surrounded by flames. There is also a separate shrine for Marachilai Amman (the wooden idol). The complex houses shrines for Murugan-Valli-Deivanai, Srinivasa-Padmavathi, Anjaneyar, Dakshinamurthy, Angala Parameswari, and Ucchishta Ganapathi. A unique sight is the Utsava Amman (processional deity) swaying like a swing.
The grand festival begins in the first week of the Tamil month of Aadi and lasts for 12 weeks. Every Sunday features the 108-pot Abhishekam and processions, with the 9th Sunday featuring the special Flower Palanquin (Pushpa Pallakku). Other major events include:
Temple Hours: 05:00 AM to 09:00 PM.
Special Rituals: Go Pooja (Cow worship) in the morning and Kumkum Archana during Pradosham in the evening.
How to Reach: Easily accessible from Chennai by bus or car (18 km west). Located near Poonamallee, it is well-connected by government buses and the Metro.
Arulmigu Devi Karumariamman Temple,
Thiruverkadu, Thiruvallur District – 600 077.
Contact number: +914426800430, +914426800487, +914426801686.
Hail to the Mother who showers her grace!
Hail to the Compassionate Karumari!
