At Tamil Nadu's Mariamman Temple, Devotees Offer Clay Dolls To God During Panguni Pongal

The Mariamman temple located in the southern district of Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu celebrates the Panguni Pongal with a vibrant display of colour and culture. The auspicious occasion often attracts thousands of devotees who take part in different rituals praying for the wellness of them and their families.

Devotees flock in huge numbers to take part in the grand old rituals. Among the many rituals that are followed, the ritual of offering clay dolls to god is something that makes this celebration more vibrant. Local business owners in Virudhunagar start selling clay dolls months before the commencement of Panguni Pongal. As the festival date nears the business experiences a huge demand for clay dolls. The devotees gather in huge numbers in the streets of Virudhunagar, Thiruthangal and Sivakasi to buy the cay dolls for rituals.

Speaking on the grand old ritual, a doll seller stated that there is a significant growth in the sales of the dolls this season. He mentioned that as the Panguni Pongal festival is set to have a grand celebration in three towns, the sales have touched new heights. The businessman also mentioned that Virudhunagar stands as a centre of attraction though this prevalent festival is celebrated in various regions of the state.

The tradition of buying clay dolls has its significance. It is said that each doll has its unique symbol. If we talk about the significance of each doll, males praying for good health should buy male dolls while females should buy female dolls. Adding to its uniqueness, for the construction of a new home a devotee should buy a housewarming. People who have marriage scheduled usually buy Bridal dolls prying for a prosperous married life. Clay dolls of Eye are also available for improvement of eyesight, car for buying a car, etc. Devotees buy dolls by their needs, wishes and problems. For example, a devotee having weak legs will buy a clay doll of a foot to pray for the improvement of his or her leg’s condition.

The demand for clay dolls remains for the full year as devotees visit the Mariamman temple. The demand for these dolls surges during this festive season but they are sold the whole year.