Ayyavazhi/Panchappathi

A Pathi (from a Tamil word meaning "The place where God is") is an important centre of congregational worship for the South Indian religion of Ayyavazhi, having a relatively large structure like that of a temple.

They obtain their significance from the fact that Ayya Vaikundar and his activities were historically associated with them. There are five Pathis, ("Five places where God is") which appeared during the time of Ayya Vaikundar. According to Akilattirattu Ammanai the source of Ayyavazhi mythology, these Panchappathis are the places where Ayya Vaikundar performed the Avatara Ekanai. These are the sacred places for the people of Ayyavazhi. They are:

• Swamithoppepathi
• Ambalappathi
• Muttappathi
• Tamaraikulampathi
• Pooppathi
• The Thalaimaippathi is the headquarters of the Panchappathis.