Poleramma and Mahalakshmi Temple

Poleramma and Mahalakshmi Temple is a Hindu temple located in Kanakalapet village in Yanam, an enclave of the Union Territory of Puducherry on the Andhra Pradesh coast. Dedicated to the gramadevatas Poleramma and Mahalakshmi, revered as protective mother goddesses, the temple serves as an important local place of worship. It is known for its simple South Indian village temple architecture, annual festivals, and significance to the local fishing and agrarian communities.

Visitors can expect a small, traditional South Indian village temple with simple shrines dedicated to goddesses Poleramma and Mahalakshmi. The temple is set within the residential area of Kanakalapet in Yanam, with a modest gopuram-style entrance, sanctum areas, and open courtyard for devotees. The atmosphere is quiet on regular days and more active during festivals and auspicious days when devotees gather for darshan, prayers and offerings.

The temple is dedicated to Poleramma and Mahalakshmi, worshipped as gramadevatas or village guardian goddesses in coastal Andhra and Yanam region. Such shrines have historically served as community centres for agrarian and fishing communities, with traditions passed down through generations. The temple reflects the continuity of folk Shakti worship in the Yanam enclave.

Poleramma and Mahalakshmi are revered as protective mother goddesses believed to safeguard the village from disease and misfortune and to ensure prosperity. The temple is culturally significant for local festivals, annual jatara, and regular pujas, playing a central role in the religious and social life of Kanakalapet and greater Yanam.