Abstract:
The HinduTamil of Batticaloa areSaivites but the Hindu
religious tradition of that region has a local flavour. It
is a curious mixture of Saivism and a variety of cults
within and outside the fold of orthodox Hinduism.
There are only two temples dedicated for the worship
of Siva in the entire region of Batticaloa and these are
Tantontrisvaram and Mamankeswaram.
MAMANKESWARAM– SPECIALSIGNIFICANCE
Mamankeswaram is of special significance to the
Hindus of Batticaloa. It is the resort of thousands of
pious devotees and pilgrims from all parts of the region
of Batticaloa during the season of the annual festival,
which culminates in the water cutting ceremony.
It is famous on account of its sacred tank, the waters
of which are believed to possess healing qualities. The
mud in the tank has the likeness of sandal paste and
pious devotees believe that it has the efficacy of healing
incurable diseases
