Sri Motai Siddhar: The Forgotten Saint

Behind the temple stands a small Siddha site made of a few bricks, revered as Sri Motai Siddhar. For nearly twenty years, a devoted caretaker had served at the sacred site of Mottai Siddhar’s Jeeva Samadhi. Though she first came there as a child, life took her away for fifteen years before she returned in 2020, determined to continue the service.

According to Lalita, the caretaker,  the place had changed. The large snake hill that once stood nearby had disappeared, and much of the history of the samadhi had faded with the passing of the elders who knew it.

When asked about the site, Lalita explained that the great saint Sri Motai Siddhar attained Jeeva Samadhi there.

Mystery of the Past

The exact history of the Jeeva Samadhi is unknown. According to local belief, the site may have existed for five generations. Older people spoke of Motai Siddhar’s miracles, but those who knew the details have long since passed away.

The Abode of Mottai Siddhar

One night, around 2020 or 2021, Lalita, the caretaker, had a remarkable dream. Mottai Siddhar appeared before her and showed a paper bearing the year 1885. Though the meaning was not entirely clear, the devotees accepted it as a sign and estimated the Jeeva Samadhi to be around 135 years old. They also believed the place itself had existed for two or three centuries.

According to stories passed down by elders, Mottai Siddhar had lived on this very land and worshipped Lord Ayyanaar. He was remembered as a saint who performed miracles, cured illnesses, and appeared in the dreams of devotees, guiding them and offering blessings.

Reviving the Shrine

Over time, the devotees are carefully restoring the site and have begun building statues. Plans were also made to install a Shiva shrine above the Jeeva Samadhi to further honor the saint.

Gradually, Annadhanam (the offering of free meals) is also begun. The monthly Annadhanam has now continued for 28 months, and the upcoming one will be the 29th.

A Visitor’s Confirmation

Some years ago, a respected devotee from Keelputhupattu, who regularly recited Thiruvasagam, visited the shrine. Upon arriving, he declared that “Ayya is present here.” Pointing to the caretaker, he said that she received guidance because the saint visited her in dreams. The visitor also predicted that this shrine would one day become an important center of worship. His words strengthened the devotees’ faith and inspired them to continue developing the sacred place.

Now, with new statues being installed and a Shiva shrine being built above the Jeeva Samadhi, and constructing a Peedam, the work continues. Though much of the history remains hidden in time, the devotees believe that Mottai Siddhar still watches over the place, guiding its revival and ensuring that his legacy lives on for future generations.

Thus, the story of Sri Motai Siddhar lives on—not through written records alone, but through dreams, devotion, and the dedication of those who keep his memory alive.