Collector Rous Peter respected and treated people of all faiths equally and this noble trait
PETER PADUKAM - THE LEGEND OF MADURAI MEENAKSHI TEMPLE AND A BRITISH COLLECTOR.
A British Collector named Rous Peter was appointed as Collector of Madurai from 1812 to 1828.
Though a Christian by faith, he respected all faiths including Hinduism and also honored local practice
Collector Rous Peter respected and treated people of all faiths equally and this noble trait
Goddess Meenakshi Amman Temple was situated between Collector Peter's residence and office.
Everyday he used to go to the office by his horse and while crossing the temple, he got down from his horse, removed the hat and his shoes
Through this small gesture he expressed his reverence to the Goddess!
One day there was a heavy downpour in Madurai city and River Vaigai was in spate.
Collector was sleeping in his residence and was suddenly disturbed and woken up by
He saw a small girl wearing pattuvastrams (silk garments) and precious ornaments and addressing him as 'Peter come this way'.
As he came out of the house and was running, he was shocked as he turned to see behind him, his residence (whole bungalow) being washed away by the flood waters of River Vaigai!
'He saw that the girl ran without any shoes and was wearing anklets.'
He believed that his devotion for Mother 'Goddess Meenakshi' had saved his life.
Later, he wished to give a gift to Lord Meenakshi Amman &
It is thus that the pair of Paadhukams consisting of
'412 rubies,'
'72 emeralds,'
and '80 diamonds'
were made and donated to the temple.
Till this day the pair of Paadhukams are known as *'Peter Paadhukam'*
Every year at the time of 'Chaitra Festival', utsava moorthy of Goddess Meenakshi Amman is decorated with the Padukams.
Paadhukams ! 👇