What is kuladeivam?

Kuladeivam is a Tamil term that refers to the family deity or deity worshiped by a particular community or family in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Every community in Tamil Nadu has a particular kuladeivam to whom they offer their prayers and perform rituals. The deity is believed to protect and guide the family and community and is regarded as their guardian god. The worship of kuladeivam involves various rituals such as pooja, feeding the poor, and offering of fruits, flowers, and grains. Devotees believe that seeking the blessings of their kuladeivam will bring them good health, prosperity, and success in life. The practice of worshiping a kuladeivam has strong cultural and traditional significance in Tamil Nadu and continues to be followed by many families and communities to this day.