Who worship Maleeswari
Maleeswari (also spelled Malleeswari or Malaiyammai) is a popular goddess worshipped mainly among several tribal communities and rural groups in Tamil Nadu and surrounding regions.
Who worships Maleeswari?
-
Kurumba tribes (especially Betta Kurumba and Jenu Kurumba):
Maleeswari is revered as a mother goddess associated with hills, forests, fertility, and protection. She is often considered a form of Durga or Mariamman. -
Other Hill and Forest Tribes:
Many tribal groups in the Western Ghats and Nilgiris who are forest dwellers honor Maleeswari as their guardian deity. -
Rural Agricultural Communities:
In some rural non-tribal communities, especially in Tamil Nadu, Maleeswari is worshipped as a goddess of prosperity and rain.
Significance of Maleeswari
- Seen as a protective mother figure who safeguards the community and nature.
- Associated with fertility, health, and the bounty of the land.
- Temples dedicated to Maleeswari are often located on hills or near forests.
- Worship includes traditional folk rituals, sometimes involving trance, dance, and offerings of flowers, rice, and animal sacrifices in tribal areas.
Summary Table
| Community | Relationship to Maleeswari | Role of Goddess |
|---|---|---|
| Betta & Jenu Kurumba | Tribal mother goddess, hill deity | Protector, fertility goddess |
| Other forest tribes | Guardian of forests and hills | Nature and fertility goddess |
| Rural Tamil farmers | Local form of Mariamman/Durga | Goddess of prosperity and rain |
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