Sri Karadi Madasamy Temple is nestled in the tranquil town of Therku Kadayam at the base of the revered Pothigai Hills (Agasthiyar Malai) — the ancient seat of the Siddhar tradition and the origin of the Tamraparni river. The celestial vigilance of the Siddhars residing in these hills lends this temple a profound sanctity.

The presiding deity, Karadi Madasamy, is the eternal guardian — revered as a primal deity beyond the sway of celestial bodies and planetary influences. His grace is unbounded, timeless, and direct. His consort Madathi Amman — the merciful matron and resolute guardian — confers benedictions of well-being, affluence, and fortitude upon all supplicants.

The temple presides over a sacred assembly of 21 deities — the Kootuvuravu — encompassing guardian deities, Madan-class village protectors, Amman goddesses, and divine attendants. Each deity holds a specific role in the spiritual welfare of the community, making this a complete centre of Tamil folk devotion.

Among the 21 deities, Nedunkoval Dharmashastha — the Harihara born of both Shiva and Vishnu — stands as profound testimony that this temple transcends sectarian division. Here, Saivism and Vaishnavism are not opposites but aspects of the same eternal truth. This unity, worshipped by ancient communities long before the word "religion" was known, makes Karadi Madasamy Temple one of the most authentically ancient sacred spaces in the Tamil tradition.

Meet the 21 Deities →