Mother Pattini ( පත්තිනි මෑණියන්)

The story of Mother Pattini is deeply rooted in Sri Lankan and South Indian traditions, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism. Pattini is a goddess of chastity, fertility, and health, venerated in Sri Lanka as a divine protector of the people. Her story embodies themes of faithfulness, morality, and the power of righteous anger.

The Story of Mother Pattini

The origins of Pattini are linked to the South Indian epic Silappatikaram ("The Tale of the Anklet"). According to the tale:

1. Kannagi and Kovalan: Pattini was born as Kannagi, a virtuous woman married to Kovalan, a merchant's son. Kovalan eventually abandoned her to live with a courtesan named Madhavi, squandering his wealth.

2. Reconciliation and Tragedy: After losing everything, Kovalan returned to Kannagi. She forgave him and gave him one of her precious anklets (filled with gems) to sell and restart their lives. However, when Kovalan tried to sell the anklet in Madurai, he was falsely accused of stealing the queen's anklet and executed by the king.

3. Kannagi’s Divine Wrath: Devastated by her husband's unjust death, Kannagi confronted the king and queen, proving her innocence by breaking her other anklet to reveal its gems. Consumed by anger, she tore off her breast and cursed the city of Madurai, causing it to burn to the ground. Her purity and devotion made her a powerful, divine figure.

4. Transformation into Pattini: After her death, Kannagi was deified as Pattini, a goddess revered in Sri Lanka and South India for her virtue, strength, and justice.

The Powers of Mother Pattini

1. Healing and Protection: Pattini is believed to cure diseases, particularly smallpox and other epidemics. She is invoked during times of illness to ward off sickness and restore health.

2. Fertility and Prosperity: Women pray to Pattini for blessings of fertility, safe childbirth, and the well-being of their families. She symbolizes abundance and the nurturing aspect of motherhood.

3. Moral Justice: Pattini is seen as a defender of the righteous. Her story serves as a warning against injustice and dishonesty.

4. Chastity and Purity: As a goddess of chastity, she embodies the strength of virtue and moral integrity. Her devotees often see her as an ideal role model for women.

5. Protection from Evil: She is invoked to ward off evil spirits, misfortune, and disasters. Devotees believe her power can purify and protect entire communities.

Worship of Pattini in Sri Lanka

In Sri Lanka, Pattini is venerated by both Hindus and Buddhists, particularly in rural areas. Devales (shrines) dedicated to Pattini can be found across the country. Annual rituals, including dances and offerings, are performed to honor her and seek her blessings. The worship of Pattini reflects a syncretic tradition, blending Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, and her story continues to inspire themes of justice, faith, and divine retribution.