Arulmigu Bhadrakali Amman Temple: 6.30 AM to 1 PM and 5 PM to 8.30 PM
The Pettai area of Coimbatore lies between the Periya Kulam or Big Tank and goes up to the end of Sukrawarpet. Old Coimbatore is said to largely constitute this and the Fort area which comprises of Kottaimedu and its neighbourhood. Post Tipu Sultan, the East India Company demolished a number of forts in Tamilnadu in order to prevent rebellions in the future and our fort was also one of the casualities.
Whenever we think of Bhadrakali one is but reminded of the famous of the nine gems in the grand court of Krishna Deva Raya, Tenali Ramakrishna. He was a great devotee of Mother Kali and by reciting the slokham "Om Mahakali, Jagadamba Jaya Kali" several times he had her vision. She offered him wealth in the form of bitter curd in a gem studded cup and pure knowledge in a cup made of gold. However she advised him to pick only one but Tenali Ramakrishna drank from both and when she got angry he replied stating that one will not be useful without the other. Allegorically it appears that the people of Coimbatore followed suit by praying to Bhadrakali and gaining both wealth and knowledge from this Amman who resides on the Thorayar street.
The Raju Chettiar street is perpendicular to Vysial street and if one takes the second left it will lead to a tiny lane on the right where one can find the ancient Bhadrakali Temple and the Gundam meant for the fire walks done annually. It is said that the jingling of her anklets was heard recently this powerful Amman gets hundreds of visitors on Friday on a regular basis. The Sivanrathri Nombi and the Maasi Gundam (fire walk festival) thereafter are quite famous with thousands participating in the same.The priests of the temple preserve a Kalasam or container of Theertham for one year at a go and the sacred water from this is said to have the miraculous powers to cure pox among many other diseases. Therefore this temple is much sought after. The local Thorayars and Chettiars from Vysial street were the original patrons of this temple but people from all denominations have always been praying and seeking Bhadrakali's munificence. The Bhadrakali Amman will hold the devotee in awe and her mere darshan will rid the person of all the difficulties faced. There are several individuals and their families from all walks of life who have witnessed and benefited from the miracles of Bhadrakali Amman. The recitation of the Durga Saptha Slokhi at this temple will be appropriate. She will drive away all our internal and external enemies while also ensuring that our mind and activities are positive. Let us supplicate before her and earn the merit that may accrue due to her side long glance falling on us.
The Nine Sisters of Coimbatore - Part 1: Arulmigu Koniamman Temple - Click here