Periyanayaki Amman Temple is popularly called `Town Temple` of Tamil Nadu. This is large and spacious temple is in the heart of Palani town, two kilometres from Adivaram. Periyanayaki Amman Temple was built four centuries ago by the rulers of Nayaka Dynasty of Madurai and later enlarged by chieftains of Palani, Ayakudi and Neikkarapatti regions.
In Periyanayaki Amman Temple, the Goddess Periyanayaki is worshipped as the presiding deity. There are sanctums for Muttukumaraswami, Subramanyar, Kailasanathar and Natarajar.
In the Muttukumara Swami shrine, within the iron railings are a series of festival South Indian Hindu deities, the last of which Uchi Mahakali is an amazing piece of art.
This temple is essentially a "Muruga" shrine with other shrines added perhaps at later stages. This is clear from the fact that the central tower is over Muruga`s shrine. The flagstaff and image of the vehicle are all in front of Muruga only. Kailasanatha is on the northern side and Periyanayaki on the southern side with Muruga in the centre, or in between father and other. This seating arrangement is known as Somaskanda Murtam.
In the Palli Arai in the Amman shrine, it is worth looking at the mirror reflecting the chamber. Almost every pillar is extravagantly covered with a filigree of sculpture. The supreme climax of South Indian architecture is in its most prodigal plastic manifestation.
In one pillar of the Kailaanathar shrine and in another in the Navaranga Mandapam, Gnana Dandayudhapani has been remarkably produced by stone masons. The pillars and sculptures therein add to importance of the Navaranga Mandapam, which has been built by the Nadar community.
On Vijayadasami day, the Lance of the Lord is brought from the hill temple to this temple and the Utsava deity Muttukumaraswami uses it to destroy evil and usher in an era of hope and good cheer after Navaratri.
In the month of Aadi that is in the month of July-August 100,000 Archanas are performed in this temple. Particularly, the Fridays of this month are crowded days here and one has to inch his/her way to the sanctum.
This temple houses the "Vahanas" of all the temples under the "Devasthanam" and from this point of view, this temple is an art gallery. Do not miss the silver car, a galaxy of various vehicles, the ivory palanquin, and several vahanas in silver, brass and wood. Their beautiful workmanship needs close observation.
Near the Periyanayaki Temple is the Mari Amman Temple, very popular with the local folk. It is crowded on Fridays. Increasing attention is being paid to this temple.
