Pathi

Pathi (Tamil: பதி - "The place where God is") is the name of the primary centres of congregational worship for the South Indian religious system of Ayyavazhi, having a relatively large structure like that of a temple.

The Pathis obtain their significance from the fact that Ayya Vaikundar and his religious activities were historically associated with them.

According to Akilattirattu Ammanai the source of Ayyavazhi mythology, these Pathis are the places where Ayya Vaikundar performed the Avatara Ekanai (a means of divine revelation).

Unlike Nizhal Thangals the Pathis were not only considered as mere worship centers but also as holy places.

Also all pathis has a Flag mast and a number of vahanas which are used to carry Ayya as processions during the festivals.

No chairs or any other wooden structure are used but instead strictly raised pedestals in which a saffron cloth is wrapped.

Above it there will be an armour-shaped brass structure which is called as Nama Vel is erected and a saffron or silk cloth wrapped around it forming the shape of an asana in which it is believed that, "The invisible God is seated".

But only in Swamithoppe the Kodiyetru Thirunal is conducted thrice in a year during the Tamil months of Avani (August/September), Thai (January/February) and Vaikasi (May/June) and each last for eleven days.

The first Sundays of every Tamil month are considered sacred and special prayers are conducted in Swamithope Pathi.

During the Ayya Vaikunda Avataram people use to go on pilgrimage to all holy places of Ayyavazhi, mainly the Panchappathis.

Anyway, commonly, a site which is not directly associated historically with any of the religious activities of Vaikundar is not accepted as a Pathi.

Regarding Marunthuvazh Malai, an attempt is made there to kill Vaikundar by adding poison to milk.