Aiyanar | |
---|---|
Guardian deity | |
![]() Chola statue of Ayyanar | |
Weapon | Chentu (whip), sceptre, sword |
Mount | White elephant, horse, bull[1] |
Consort | Puranai, Puskalai |
Aiyanar (IAST: Aiyaṉār, Tamil: ஐயனார்) is a Dravidian folk deity venerated in South India and Sri Lanka. His worship is prevalent amongst rural Tamil people.[2][3][4] Some studies suggest that Ayyanar may have also been worshipped in Southeast Asian countries in the past.[5] He is primarily worshipped as one of the village deities of Tamil Nadu.[6] Temples to Aiyanar in the countryside are usually flanked by gigantic colourful statues of him and his companions riding horses or elephants.[7][8]
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