History

Masani Amman is an aspect of Shakti Devi. She also known as Masani Devi among north Indians. Her temple is located in Anaimalai, Pollachi, Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu state, India.

Arulmigu Masani Amman Temple, also referred as Anaimalai Masani Amman Temple, is a highly revered shrine situated at Anaimalai, which is located about 24 km far south-westerly toPollachi. It is situated at the confluence of Aliyar River and the Uppar stream, nestled amid grasslands against the backdrop of mighty Anaimalai Hills. The Temple enshrines Goddess Arulmigu Masani Amman as the presiding deity. The deity is seen in a lying posture measuring 15 feet from head to foot, which is unique. Other deities worshiped in the complex include Neethi Kal (stone of justice) and Mahamuniappan. It is a popular belief here that Masani Amman will cure any illness if you go around her trident.
During ancient times, Anaimalai was known as Nannur and the region was ruled by Nannur. He had proclaimed severe punishments on those who plucked fruits from the dense mango grove that belonged to him. One day, a lady happened to consume a fruit not knowing of the strict measures. Nannur sentences her to death despite the plea of the general public. Later, Nannur was killed by the villagers in a battle near Vijayamangalam, and a shrine was erected to worship the lady who sacrificed her life. Since the lady was killed, the deity was called as Shmasani, which in Sanskrit means ‘graveyard’. Later, the deity came to be called as Masani.
According to a legend, Lord Rama came to Anamalai to pray to the devi before killing the demon Thadagai.