Many would have already heard about this incident. But just a reminder so that we don’t forget about faith. A British Collector named Rose Peter was the Collector of Madurai from 1812 to 1828. Though a Christian he respected all faiths including Hinduism and also honored local
practices. Collector Peter was the temple administrator and conducted all his duties with sincerity and honesty and respected the religious sentiments of all people.
This noble trait earned him the popular nickname ‘Peter Pandian'. Meenakshi Amman Temple was situated between
This noble trait earned him the popular nickname ‘Peter Pandian'. 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 and crossed the whole path on his foot. 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 the sound of anklets and he left his bed to find out from where the sound had came. He saw a small girl
wearing pattuvastrams and precious ornaments and addressing him as Peter come this way. And he came out to follow her and was running behind the little girl to find out who she was! 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 turned to follow the girl but she disappeared into thin air! He beleived that his devotion for Mother Goddess Meenakshi had saved his life. Later, he wished to give a gift to Lord Meenakshi Amman
& consulted the priest of temple and ordered for a pair of golden shoes for Goddess 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. His name was sculpted as Peter on the padhukai.
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. This happened 200 years back in 1818 and for all those who have faith and belief Goddess
Meenakshi had been benevolent with her blessings.Take a look at the Padukams🙏🏻 
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