Angali Amman & Siddhar Appuvarma Swami Siddhar
What is a Grama Devata?
The spiritual strength of Bharat lies in its Grama Devatas—village deities who have safeguarded the land’s Dharmic fabric for centuries. Unlike grand temple deities, these divine beings are deeply woven into the daily lives of devotees, forming intimate, protective bonds.
One such powerful Grama Devata is Angala Parameshwari, or Angali Amman—a fierce yet compassionate manifestation of Shakti. She is revered for her immense power, protection, and divine grace.
Who is Angala Parameshwari?
In one legend, when Shiva severed Brahma’s fifth head, he was cursed with Brahmahatya dosha (the sin of killing a creator). The skull (Kapala) remained stuck to Kalabhairava’s hand, refusing to detach. It was Angala Parameshwari, a form of Parvati, who crushed the Kapala, liberating Shiva from the curse. Another tradition says that Angala Parameshwari is the unified essence of all 51 Devis of the Shakti Peethas—the sacred sites where Sati Devi’s body parts fell. Some Shakta traditions even regard her as the primordial energy that birthed Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
Where is she enshrined?
Her most revered temple is in Melmalayanur, Tamil Nadu, where thousands seek her blessings. However, a lesser-known but deeply mystical Temple exists in Thenkudi, near Kumbakonam, established by Sri Angali Siddhar Siddhar Appuvarma Swami.
About Siddhar Appuvarma Swami
Siddhar Appuvarma Swami was originally a sculptor and artist in Chennai’s film industry, creating artwork under famous film directors including Thota Tharani and many other popular movie sets. He has worked as a Stapathi in many Temples as an assistant to the renowned Ganapathy Stapathi.
Siddhar Appuvarma Swami was divinely led to Nanilam nearly 15 years ago. Since then, he has created a powerful sacred space where Angala Parameshwari resides through a unique mystical process.
Apart from the upkeep of Angali Amman’s sacred space, he and his wife, Gayathri Amma, work tirelessly for the upliftment of humanity. Their activities include:
Their activities include:
Arulvakku (Divine Oracle)
Angala Parameshwari speaks through Gayathri Amma on Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays. Devotees can seek Her guidance during this time.
Ancestral Rites (Amavasya Poojas and Homams)
Regular ceremonies for deceased ancestors to ensure family harmony.
Daily Tuition for Village Children
Providing free education and study materials.
Festival Donations
Distributing new clothes and sweets during Navratri, Pongal, and Deepavali.
Community Service
Supporting street workers and neglected individuals.
Annadanam (Food Donation)
Offering free meals to visitors and devotees.
Goshala Maintenance
Caring for over 40 native breeds of cows and distributing milk to villagers.
Production of Sacred Items
Preparing traditional vibhuti (sacred ash) and herbal products.
Promoting Awareness of Grama Devatas
Educating people about village deities and their importance.
Spiritual Guidance and Discourses
Siddhar Appuvarma Swami shares spiritual knowledge and mantras to all who seek.