Archive · 21 Jan 2026
Ancient Thenkishamman temple in Nilgiris to be renovated after 50 years
The Toda tribal community in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu is renovating their ancient Moonpo Thenkishamman temple after 50 years.
This is a big community effort where tribal men have been fasting and collecting special materials like bamboo, cane, and a unique grass called ‘avil’ from the forest.
People from other countries like Sri Lanka, Norway, London, England, and Canada are also there to learn about the Toda people's culture and traditions.
The Toda community is known for their special barrel-shaped temples and traditional embroidery.
They are using the same old methods and materials to fix the temple and keep their heritage alive.
The ancient Moonpo Thenkishamman temple is being renovated after 50 years by the Toda tribal community in Muthanadu Mund, Nilgiris district, Tamil Nadu.
Tribal men observed a strict fast for two months and collected natural materials like bamboo, cane, and ‘avil’ grass for the temple roof.
The renovation process began with special prayers and the removal of the old thatched roof.
International participants from Sri Lanka, Norway, London, England, and Canada attended to study the Toda community's unique culture and traditions.
The Toda people are known for their distinct barrel-shaped temples and traditional embroidery, and they continue to follow ancestral customs in maintaining their religious structures.
- Who
- Toda tribal community and international participants from Sri Lanka, Norway, London, England, and Canada
- What
- Renovation of the ancient Moonpo Thenkishamman temple
- When
- Commenced on Wednesday, January 21
- Where
- Muthanadu Mund, Nilgiris district, Tamil Nadu
- Why
- To preserve their heritage and restore the temple to its original form
- Temple Name
- Moonpo Thenkishamman temple
- Location
- Muthanadu Mund, Nilgiris district, Tamil Nadu
- Community
- Toda tribal community
- Renovation Period
- 50 years
- Materials Used
- Bamboo, cane, and ‘avil’ grass
- International Participants
- Professors and students from Sri Lanka, Norway, London, England, and Canada
- Toda Community Settlements
- 67 settlements across Nilgiris district
- Tribal Groups in Nilgiris
- Toda, Kurumba, Kota, Kattu Nayaka, Irula, and Paniya