Amman is the South Indian Goddess of Rain. She is the main South Indian mother/goddess in the southern India. Mari is closely associated with the Hindu goddess Parvati and Durga. Her festivals are held during the late summer/early autumn season of Aadi throughout Tamil Nadu and Deccan region, the largest being Aadi Thiruvizha. Devotees offer Pongal that is cooked using earthen pots which are made during the festive season. Rituals such as fire walking and mouth or nose piercing are also practised. Mari in Tamil means rain. Thus she is referred to as Mariyayee or Aathaa. Aathaa means mother or grandmother. She symbolizes sacrifice, motherhood, abundant wealth and good health. May Goddess Amman Bless You! Om Sakthi !