Akshaya Natha Swamy Temple,
Thirumandurai – Legends
Chandra got relief from a curse:
Chandra was cursed that his body
will fade away and he would be stuck with a wasting disease. Each day, his
lustre would wane and eventually he would disappear forever. Chandra was
worried and went to Guru. Guru informed Chandran that you are afflicted with
this disease because of your presence at Daksha Yaga. Also, informed that only
Lord Shiva could absolve your sin. He advised Chandra to visit earth and worship
Lord Shiva in Amra Vanam continuously for 15 days on the northern banks of
Cauvery River.
As instructed, Chandran
worshipped Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva along with his consort, Uchista Ganapathy
with his consort and Lord Vishnu appeared before him and blessed Lord Chandran.
He also asked a boon to Lord Shiva that whomever worship here in Monday shall
be blessed with happy life. Lord Shiva
blessed Lord Chandra wishes.
Sage Kalva and Navagrahas worshipped Lord Shiva here:
As per legend, Sage Kalva and
Navagrahas were afflicted by leprosy. They worshipped Lord Shiva for cure from
the disease. Lord Shiva instructed them to go to Thirumandurai and perform
Pooja to him in this Temple, situated in the forest infested with Vellerukku
plant. Further, he insisted them to take bath in Chandra Theertham for 15 days.
They followed Lord instruction and got relief from leprosy.
Drought in Devaloka:
Once, Devaloka was facing severe
drought. To eradicate the situation, Indra and Varuna came here and worshipped
Lord Shiva for reprieve. The drought was eradicated with the blessings of Lord
Shiva.
Pancha Pandavas worshipped Lord Shiva here:
It is believed that Pancha
Pandavas worshipped Lord Shiva during their exile.
