Punnainallur Mariamman Temple is an ancient shrine, situated at Punnainallur, about 14 km from
Thanjavur, in
Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity here is Mariamman.
Built in 1680, it is a typical South Indian style temple with gopurams and mandapams.
Inside the mandapam, Ashta Shakti (eight powers) is depicted in different forms: Gaja Lakshmi, Veera Lakshmi, Soubhagya Lakshmi, Santana Lakshmi, Dhana Lakshmi, Dhanya Lakshmi, Vidya Lakshmi and Karunya Lakshmi.
Legend says that, before starting a war with the demon Tanja of Thanjavur, Lord Shiva placed the Ashta Shaktis, one at each of the eight directions. The Shakti which is placed at the eastern direction is now the presiding deity of the temple.
The Floating Festival, celebrated in the month of 'Purattasi' (September-October), is a major draw. It is taken place in the holy tank located at the temple.
Brahmotsavam, celebrated in the months of 'Adi-Avani' (August-September), draws thousands of devotees from far and near.
