Ex-President Kovind Urges Excavation of 1,008 Shivlings in Nemam

Former President of India Ramnath Kovind has called for the excavation of 1,008 Shivlings that were buried during floods in the Cauvery river at Nemam village near Thirukkattuppalli. Speaking on Sunday at the bhoomi puja for the renovation of the Saptha Kanniyar Mahalathukala Pidari temple, located about 20 km from Thanjavur, Kovind urged local residents to initiate the excavation work.

Addressing the gathering, Kovind explained the historical context behind the site, stating that King Perumpidugu Mutharaiyar Suvaran Maran, who once ruled Nemam, had installed 1,008 Shivlings in the area to make it an auspicious land. The lingas subsequently became submerged and buried when the Cauvery river was in spate. Kovind added that the historic ruler would worship Kala Pidariamman and wear the Vahai flower prior to going to battle, going on to win 16 battles and engraving his accomplishments in epigraphs.

During his address, the former President also called upon Gen Z youth to emerge as good leaders and serve humanity. The occasion coincided with the celebration of the 1,351st sadhaya vizha of King Perumpidugu Mutharaiyar Suvaran Maran.

State Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR and CE) C. Ramesh also spoke at the event, noting that Mutharaiyar's history is defined by valour and courage. Ramesh highlighted that while the Vahai flower was traditionally worn only after securing victory in battle, King Perumpidugu Mutharaiyar Suvaran Maran wore it beforehand, demonstrating his immense confidence.

Minister Ramesh stated that this historical significance inspired Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to incorporate the Vahai flower into the party's flag. He noted that the election was won and power attained, assuring that the TVK government would extend full support to the residents of the area.

The event was organised by the Suvaran Maran Pidari Trust. Prominent attendees included M. Chandrasekar, managing trustee of the trust, Thanjavur MLA R. Vijay Saravanan, and R.V. Bharathan, state youth wing president of the Mutharaiyar Sangam.