Uyyakondan Thirumalai Temple – Legends
Legend of Markandeya:
The
temple is connected to the legend of Markandeya who was blessed with 16 years
of life only. On Narada’s advice, he started worshipping Shiva at various
places. When he came here, he was completing his 16th year and so
Yama came to end his life. Goddess requested Shiva to bless Markandeya as
‘Chiranjeevi’ and Shiva did so. In this temple Lord Shiva promised for his
long life (Endrum Pathinaru) to Markandeya, Lord came out of the temple and
left his foot print on the south side of the entrance near flag post, near the
Dwajasthambam to threaten Yamadharman. This is one of the three places
connected with the legend, Thirukkadaiyur, is where Yama was killed and Thirupaingili
is the place Yama was resurrected. It’s a belief that one, who worships
Shiva here, will not have the fear of death.
Removal of confusion from devotee’s mind:
It is a
belief that people with confusion will get a clear solution if they sit here
between 4PM and 6PM on a full moon day.
People worshipped Shiva here:
Narathar,
Sage Upamanyu, Karan, the army chief of Ravana had worshipped here.