Dear Devotees and Well-Wishers,
Namaskaram!
As many of you know, the Paramacharya of Kanchi had long emphasized the importance of worshiping three forms of deities for every Hindu: Ishta Devatha (Personal Deity), Kula Devatha (Family Deity), and Grama Devatha (Village Deity). While we regularly honor our Ishta and Kula Devathas, our Grama Devathas—particularly in our native village of Anthagudi, Nagai District—have faced neglect over the years.
Anthagudi is home to nine Kovils: Vadakku Theru Sri Gyanapradhayaka Vinayagar Kovil, Madaththu Sri Amrutha Ganeshwarar Kovil, Sri Ayyanar Kovil, Sri Veeran Kovil, Sri Pidari Amman Kovil, Sri Mariamman Kovil, Sri Kaliamman Kovil, Sri Someshwarar (Shiva) Kovil, and Sri Lakshminarayana Perumal Kovil.
Due to economic migration, many families have moved out of Anthagudi, leaving the Kovils with little support. Over the past 50 years, the once-vibrant Kovils have struggled to sustain even basic daily rituals, let alone renovations. As a result, these vital centers of Sanatana Dharma have fallen into disrepair.
Village Kovils are the lifeblood of our spiritual heritage, essential for the sustenance of Sanatana Dharma, especially in rural areas. They offer not only a space for prayer but emotional and spiritual balance, especially during times of hardship such as natural disasters, droughts, or personal difficulties. Well-maintained Kovils help prevent conversions to other faiths and foster community cohesion.
In line with the vision of the Paramacharya, we had taken it upon ourselves, as a community, to renovate these sacred spaces and conduct Kumbhabhishekam ceremonies, ensuring that they continue to serve future generations.
Over the past two decades, thanks to the efforts of a few selfless and dedicated individuals still residing in Anthagudi and a few others supporting actively from outside, daily poojas are now being performed in most Kovils, and several have undergone much-needed renovations.
So far, we have completed the renovation and Kumbhabhishekam for:
• Vadakku Theru Sri Gyanapradhayaka Vinayagar Kovil
• Madaththu Sri Vinayagar Kovil
• Sri Ayyanar Kovil
• Sri Veeran Kovil
• Sri Pidari Amman Kovil
• Sri Mariamman Kovil
• Sri Kaliamman Kovil
Now, we are pleased to inform that the renovation and Kumbhabhishekam of Sri Someshwarar Kovil is planned for February 2025. Details of the exact date and other logistics will be communicated once firmed up. The necessary civil work is already underway, and we aim to complete it in time for the grand ceremony in the Tamil month of Thai/ Maasi. Following this, we hope to proceed with the renovation of Sri Lakshminarayana Perumal Kovil in 2026, fulfilling our commitment to restore all Kovils in Anthagudi, and hand over this divine ordinance to the next generation for ongoing upkeep and improvements.
The estimated cost for the renovation of Sri Someshwarar Kovil is approximately Rs. 20 lakhs. While we have submitted an application for Rs. 1.5 lakhs from the Tamil Nadu HR&CE Department, the majority of the funds will need to come from the broader Anthagudi community, both residents and those now living elsewhere, as well as kind-hearted donors from neighboring villages.
We humbly appeal to you to contribute as generously as you can toward this noble cause. The Kovil's restoration depends on your support. Your donation, no matter the size, will make a significant difference in bringing this 1,500-year-old Kovil back to its former glory.
Below are the bank details for your contributions:
Name: Mohan Ramachandran Ramados Subramanian
ISFC CODE: CIUB0000033
Account No: 500101012665198
Let us come together to ensure that this Kovil, a beacon of spiritual strength for countless generations, continues to thrive for years to come.
Thank you for your continued support and generosity.
With heartfelt gratitude,
The Anthagudi Kovil Renovation Organizers
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