Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple

Legend has it that Kannagi, the heroine of the Old Tamil epic poem "Cilappatikaram", traveled to this exact location after burning the Pandya capital, Madurai, and stayed here for 14 days.), the ruler of the early historic Chera Kingdom, dedicated the temple to Goddess Kannagi around 2,000 years ago (during the "Sangam period" or early historic period, at a location called "Vannathipara"). He apparently named it "Kannagi Kottam" or "Mangaladevi Kannagi Temple" and (personally) also performed regular worship there. == Present forms of worship ==

Chitra Poornami Festival is usually organized by Kannagi Trust, Tamil Nadu and Ganapathy-Bhagavathy Trust, Kumily. • Special pujas usually continue from 6 am to 4 pm. • Inaugurating with special "pujas" and "aradhanas" to the Kannagi idol (the decorated idol of the goddess is usually covered with sandalwood and turmeric paste) in the morning.'''' • Both Brahmins from Kerala ("Namboodhiris") and Tamil pujaris performed pujas to the goddess jointly.'''' • Priests from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu states were present in all "sannadhis".'''' • On Chitra Poornami day, priests from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu perform puja in two different shrines. == Current disputes ==

The temple is now located in a disputed area between the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and entry is allowed only in the presence of the Theni and Idukki District Collectors and district police chiefs (in addition to state police officers and forest officials). District administrations (with support of the festival organizers) usually plan elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the worship (such as a heavy show of force, the use of bamboo barricades and metal detectors, food and water distribution systems, etc.).'' == See also ==