Devasahayam Mount, also known as Kattadimalai, in Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India, is a revered pilgrimage destination where Saint Devasahayam Pillai, India’s first lay martyr saint, was martyred on January 14, 1752.
Kattadimalai’s history as the execution site stems from its isolation, chosen to minimize public unrest. On January 14, 1752, Devasahayam was fatally shot with five bullets while standing on a rock, after kneeling in prayer. Local traditions recount miraculous phenomena at the time of his death: a spring emerged, a rock shed tears, and a banyan tree branch turned yellow, all of which continue to inspire devotion. Over time, the site evolved from a place of execution to a sacred shrine, with the erection of crosses, a church, and other devotional structures. The Diocese of Kottar has developed the site to accommodate pilgrims, particularly after Devasahayam’s canonization
Places of Significance at Devasahayam Mount Shrine
Prison
Kneeling Rock
On Devasahayam Mount, the Kneeling Rock marks where Devasahayam knelt in prayer on January 14, 1752, before his execution. Remarkably, impressions of his footprints, legs, and crossed hands remain visible, testifying to his sanctity. Pilgrims are encouraged to kneel and pray here, seeking Saint Devasahayam’s intercession for blessings and strength. The rock is accessible via a short climb and serves as a focal point for personal devotion.
Wooden Cross
The Wooden Cross stands on the exact rock where Devasahayam was fatally shot with five bullets on January 14, 1752, while standing in prayer. This cross is a central pilgrimage site, where devotees pray for abundant divine grace. Often surrounded by candles and offerings, it is a powerful symbol of his martyrdom and a place of deep spiritual connection.
Falling Place
Adjacent to the martyrdom rock, the Falling Place marks where Devasahayam collapsed after being shot on January 14, 1752, completing his sacrifice. Thousands of pilgrims visit this sacred spot annually, drawn by its sanctity and the promise of blessings through prayer. It forms part of the core pilgrimage area near the Wooden Cross.
Stone Cross
Near the martyrdom site, a Stone Cross commemorates Devasahayam’s sacrifice on January 14, 1752. Pilgrims believe that praying with faith before this cross can lead to physical and spiritual healing. Easily accessible, it is often included in guided tours of the shrine, reinforcing its sacred status.
Tear Rock
The Tear Rock, located near the martyrdom site, is said to have shed tears on January 14, 1752, mourning Devasahayam’s death. This rock continues to exhibit a weeping-like phenomenon, captivating devotees and symbolizing divine sorrow for his sacrifice. Pilgrims are drawn to this site for its miraculous nature, and local guides can provide further context.
Red Cross
Near Captain’s Gate on Devasahayam Mount, the Red Cross, a red stone structure, was erected in 2012 to mark Devasahayam’s 300th birth anniversary, coinciding with his beatification. Devotees report miraculous experiences and transformative blessings when praying before this cross, making it a significant addition to the shrine.
Maniyadichan Rock
The Maniyadichan Rock, a 250-foot-high formation near Devasahayam Mount, split with a bell-like sound on January 14, 1752, as Devasahayam was shot, a miraculous event tied to his martyrdom. This rock still resonates when struck, drawing pilgrims to meditate on this divine sign. Visitors should exercise caution due to its height and terrain.
Old Church (Holy Mother of Sorrows)
Constructed in 1820 by local residents, the Old Church dedicated to the Holy Mother of Sorrows has been a spiritual cornerstone for 200 years. A monthly Mass is celebrated here on the first Wednesday at 7:00 PM, fostering communal worship and devotion to Mary, who shared in Devasahayam’s suffering. Pilgrims should check with the diocese for Mass schedules, especially during Jubilee 2025.
Devasahayam Museum
Located within the Devasahayam Mount Shrine, the museum chronicles Saint Devasahayam’s life through exhibits, photographs, and testimonies of miracles attributed to his intercession. It serves as a lasting tribute to his legacy, inspiring pilgrims to deepen their faith. The museum is open to visitors, and guided tours offer a detailed experience.
Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto
The Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto features two stone pillars from Vadakkankulam, where Devasahayam’s wife, Gnanapoo Ammal, passed away, linking it to their shared faith journey. Devotees who pray and place a coin on the stone bearing Mary’s image often report receiving blessings. This grotto is a peaceful spot for prayer within the shrine complex.
Rosary Park
Established in 2012 to honor a devotee of the Rosary who passed away, Rosary Park near the shrine offers a serene space for praying the Rosary and seeking Mary’s intercession. Pilgrims visit this tranquil area for group prayers and personal reflection, connecting with the Blessed Mother’s devotion.
Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament
Consecrated on October 27, 2018, the Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament honors the Eucharist, which gave Devasahayam strength during his trials. Pilgrims find comfort and divine blessings here, praying in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. The shrine is open for adoration, with specific prayer times available through the diocese.
Mountain Procession
The Mountain Procession, held on the 14th of each month, honors Devasahayam’s life through 14 stages reflecting joyful, sorrowful, and glorious moments. Devotees carry a holy casket around the mountain, meditating on his life and concluding with prayers at the martyrdom crosses. Participation requires coordination with the Diocese of Kottar, and the procession is especially vibrant during Jubilee 2025.
Yellow Banyan Tree
On January 14, 1752, Devasahayam’s blood stained a banyan tree branch yellow, casting a shadow over his body. The leaves of this branch remain yellow today, serving as a poignant reminder of his sacrifice. Located near the martyrdom site, the tree is a striking visual for pilgrims reflecting on his martyrdom.
Mass Timings and Special Events at Devasahayam Mount Shrine
Daily Mass (Monday - Thursday)
- Morning: 6:00 AM
- Evening: 6:30 PM
Friday Mass
- Morning: 6:00 AM (Mass)
- Morning: 10:30 AM (Rosary)
- Morning: 11:00 AM (Novena Mass)
- Evening: 6:30 PM (Mass)
Saturday Mass
- Morning: 6:00 AM (Mass)
- Morning: 11:00 AM (Novena Mass)
- Evening: 6:30 PM (Mass)
- Night: 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM (Special Devotions)
- Martyr Devasahayam Arulurai
- Thirupanda Vanakkam
- Thirupugalmalai Yezunthetram
Sunday Mass
- Morning: 5:00 AM (Mass)
- Morning: 7:00 AM (Mass)
- Afternoon: 12:00 PM (Mass for Sacred Pilgrims)
- Evening: 5:30 PM (Mass)
- Night: 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM (Special Devotions)
- Martyr Devasahayam Arulurai
- Thirupanda Vanakkam
- Thirupugalmalai Yezunthetram
Special Days
- 14th of Every Month: Malai Vazham – Evening Mass at 6:00 PM
- First Tuesday: St. Antony's Grotto
- First Wednesday: Old Church
- First Friday: Deva Square
- First Saturday: Devasahayam Prison
Notes:
- The special devotions (Martyr Devasahayam Arulurai, Thirupanda Vanakkam, Thirupugalmalai Yezunthetram) are likely Tamil devotional practices or hymns dedicated to St. Devasahayam Pillai, conducted on Saturday and Sunday nights.
How to Reach Devasahayam Mount
Devasahayam Mount (Kattadimalai), a sacred pilgrimage site in Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu. Located near Aralvaimozhi, it’s 15 km from Nagercoil and 80 km from Trivandrum. Here’s a simple guide to get there by road, train, or air.
📌 Location Map:
The shrine is near Aralvaimozhi, 15 km (20 minutes) from Nagercoil and 80 km (1.5-2 hours) from Trivandrum. It’s a peaceful hill with sacred sites like the Kneeling Rock and Wooden Cross.
