Madurai Veeran is a local deity enshrined within the confines of the Meenakshi Amman temple in Madurai. He has a particular shrine where the people offer worship, as they believe him to be the most heroic and unparalleled Guardian of Madurai. 'Madurai Veeran' means the Great Warrior of Madurai.
The locals believe that the spirit of this legendary warrior still lives on, and his presence can be felt. He is revered for his bravery and courage, and there is an unshakeable belief that he will protect them.
Depiction
Madurai Veeran is depicted as a great warrior, identified by his sword (broken), shield, and dagger on his waist belt. Wearing a short dhoti and sandals, a horizontal mark adorns his forehead as his affiliation to Shaivism and reinforces his identification as Madurai Veeran. He is depicted with a sword and a mace and is seen riding on a horse.
Speciality
It is believed Madura Veeran took shelter in the Meenakshi temple in Madurai, and the Pandiyan king erected a shrine at the eastern gate of the temple.
On the eve of Maha Shivaratri, devotees gather at the temple and spend all night on this festive occasion chanting Gods' names. Some devotees prepare Pongal (Sweet Pudding) at the temple and distribute it to the devotees. Sometimes, a goat is sacrificed. Some people have Madurai Veeran as their family deity, and before initiating any auspicious functions, they offer the first anointment to him and pray for his presence throughout the function.
Legend
Madurai Veeran was abandoned at birth by a king from South India as it was predicted the baby would bring bad luck and misfortune. The Sakkiliyar community (now known as Arunthathiyar) found the infants, who were cobblers and leather workers. The child grew up to be a warrior and an expert in martial arts.
Madurai, then ruled by Thirumalai Naicker (1623-1659 AD), came to know about Veeran and asked the ruler of Trichy to send him over to serve in Madurai, which made the young man take over as a commander in Thirumalai Naicker's army. Madurai was rife with robbers and thieves who plundered and looted the region. Madurai Veeran ended their atrocities and subdued the Piranmalai Kallars and their leader, Sanggili Karuppu. He was much admired as a brave warrior.
However, tragedy befell the young warrior as he fell in love with a young woman from the royal family named Vellaiammal, infuriating the king due to caste differences. He ordered his soldiers to slay the young warrior. Madurai Veeran was captured and sentenced to death through amputation.
Hearing this tragic news, Vellaiammal and his spouse, Bommi, questioned the king for his injustice.
The king was later driven by remorse for his impulsive deed, built a temple for Madurai Veeran, and offered prayers. Later, the spirit of Madurai Veeran became a Guardian Deity of Madurai and was revered by all.
Prayers
People offer prayers to Madurai Veeran for protection against evil spirits and dangers. He resolves all sorts of problems and safeguards from enemies. He is believed to respond to prayers and also grant the well-being of all.
Timings
The temple is open from 7.30 am to 10.30 am and from 5.30 pm to 8.30 pm.
Access
Bus
There are a lot of buses plying from Madurai Matuthavani Bus Stand to the temple. Auto rickshaws are also available from here,
Train
The Madurai Junction railway station is near the temple and accessible by walk.
Airport
The Madurai airport is at Avaniyapuram. There are taxi facilities from the airport to the temple.
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