Karumathur Maasi Festival: Interrelation between Jain Worship and Vedic Narrative

Abstract

Ancestor Worship is a practice that has been followed by most people in rural areas. The rituals performed in village temples are based on the ancestors. In ancient times, new narratives were created around these rituals by understanding the true meanings behind these rituals and avoiding superstitious beliefs we can appreciate the significance of Ancestor Worship. The rituals play a crucial role in cultural traditions However, drastic changes should not be allowed in these rituals. Even if the name of the deity changes, such as the transition from Maasipachchai to Maha Shivaratri, the essence of village customs and rituals remains unchanged this can be understood through the Thiruvizha (temple festival) at Karumathur Moonoosami Temple. Field research has revealed that the Munusamy temples, the family deities of the Piramalai Kallar community living in and around Madurai, are based on ancestor worship rituals.