Punitha Periyanayagi Matha Church, Avoor, Pudukottai (Annual Fest)

The Periyanayagi Matha Shrine, is situated in Avoor village, Pudukottai district. Every year, the church hosts an annual fest for the “Blessed Virgin Mary” in the month of January for 10 days. History and SignificanceThis shrine's history can be traced to the 17th century, when an Italian missionary named Fr. Beshi brought two statues of Mother Mary to Elakurichi (Thirukavalur),where one of which got misplaced. It is believed that one day Mother Mary appeared in the dreams of Kachirayar and his wife, to find her missing statue in the forest and build a chapel at that place. When Kachirayar found the holy statue and built a chapel, Mother Mary bestowed her blessings and gave the couple a child boon. Devotees of this shrine believe that offering prayers to the Almighty, safeguards them from the evil.The annual fest is organised in the month of January, commencing with the hoisting of a holy flag.