Mariammam Theppakulam

Placed at a distance of around 2 km from the very well-known Meenakshi Amman Temple, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam is the sacred pond that is close to the Vandiyur Mariamman Temple. This pond is put into use at the time of devotional fairs and festivals.

This tank gets its water from River Vaigai because of a creative system of underground channels. 12 granite steps on all four sides connect the pond to the temple, which was commissioned by one of Madurai’s Nayaka Rulers, King Thirumalai Nayak. Right in the middle of the pond is a Maiya Mandapam or Central Mandapam that has the Vinayakar temple and garden, dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

History of Mariammam Theppakulam

There is a legend behind Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam. According to the legend, to build Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal sand was dug out of this tank to get the soil for creating bricks. Owing to this the palace is considered to be a blessed one. During the digging process, an idol of Lord Ganesh was unearthed.

The same idol has been enshrined in the temple. This area was later turned into Teppakulam, which is connected to River Vaigai through underground channels.

Architecture of Mariammam Theppakulam

Built in 1645 AD during the rule of Thirumalai Nayak, this temple pond is surrounded by granite steps on all four sides while in the middle a Vigneshwara Temple is located, which is dedicated to Lord Vinayaka/ Lord Ganesha. These long stairs around the pond along with the temple were built by King Thirumalai Nayak.