Lakshmi Worship in Tamil Country: Historical Development and Cultural Significance

Summary

The worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, beauty, and prosperity, has deep historical roots in Tamil culture, as evidenced by references in ancient Tamil literature such as the *Tolkappiyam*, *Ettuttogai*, and *Pattuppattu*, dating back to the Sangam period (circa 300 BCE–300 CE). These texts describe her emergence during the churning of the cosmic ocean of milk, a narrative also found in Sanskrit traditions, indicating a fusion of Vedic and Tamil religious ideas. Lakshmi is portrayed as a divine entity associated with kingship, righteousness, and prosperity, often depicted on lotus thrones or as a mole (*Tiru*) on Vishnu’s chest. The *Silappadikaram*, a later Sangam epic, links Lakshmi to the heroine Kannagi, symbolizing the convergence of Lakshmi, Durga, and Saraswati. The Bhakti movement (600–900 CE) further popularized her worship, with Vaishnava saints like the Alwars and Nayanmars emphasizing devotion to her as an embodiment of divine grace. Post-Bhakti literature, such as works by Naladiyar and the *Nigang*, highlights her distinct identity and rivalry with Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge. By the medieval period, Lakshmi’s role expanded in temple iconography, with Chola-era sculptures and bronze images depicting her alongside Vishnu. Philosophical texts like Shankara’s *Shri Kanakadhara Stotram* and Ramanuja’s *Sharanagati Gadya* glorify her as an all-pervading, merciful force, integral to salvation. The *Sri Vaishnava* tradition later split into two sects—Vadakalai and Tenkalai—debating her nature, with the former asserting her equality with Vishnu and the latter emphasizing her role as a mediator. Despite these theological shifts, Lak