Thanthondreeswarar Temple,
Kanchipuram – Legends
Upamanneeswarar:
As per legend, Upamanyu Rishi was born to Sage Vyagrapada and
the sister of Sage Vashishta. Vasishta took Upamanyu to his Ashram after he was
born. He was brought up on Kamdhenu’s milk in the ashram. After a while, he
returned to his parents. Upamanyu did not liked the milk from other cows and
remained hungry. His mother advised him to visit Kanchipuram and worship Lord
Shiva. He performed rigorous penance on Lord Shiva.
Lord Shiva appeared before him in the form of Indra.
Upamanyu was disappointed and about to kill himself. Hence, Lord Shiva appeared
before him in the form of Rishabaroodar and bestowed him with knowledge and
everlasting youth. Further, Lord Shiva made him Sanjeevini (Immortal life).
Hence, Lord Shiva came to be called as Upamanneeswarar.
Thanthondreeswarar:
It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared as Swayambhu
Linga on his own to give salvation to all living beings. Hence, Lord Shiva came
to be called as Thanthondreeswarar.
Lord
Krishna worshipped Lord Shiva here:
As per legend, Lord Krishna visited Kanchipuram to get
initiation through Sage Upamanyu. During his visit, Lord Krishna worshipped
Lord Shiva of this
temple.