A Study of Dhvajarohana (Hoisting Festival) With Based on Agamic Traditions at Mamankam Temple in Batticaloa District

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