Swarnapureeswarar Temple, Then
Ponparappi – Legends
Kaagapujandar:
Kaagapujandar
is considered one among the 18 Siddhars of Tamil Siddha tradition. He performed
severe penance on Lord Shiva for 16 years. Pleased with his penance, Lord Shiva
gave darshan to Kaagapujandar in the form of Shodasa Lingam (Lingam with
sixteen faces). He wished devotees also should have darshan of Shodasa Lingam
in the future. So, he made a Shodasa Shiva Linga from Suryakanta stone
equivalent to Navapashana. He installed the Linga for the benefit of the
devotees and worshipped sincerely. He also attained Jeeva Samadhi at this temple.
Mummudi:
As per
legend, the region surrounding Then Ponparappi was ruled by the Magadai
chieftain Vanakovarayan. He did not agree to pay tributes to the Cheras, Cholas
and Pandyas. This angered the Chera, Chola and Pandya kings. The three kings together
invaded his kingdom. Though, he is a local chieftain, he is known for his prowess
in battles.
He
prayed sincerely to Swarnapureeswarar of this temple for victory and went to the
battle. The three kings realized the blessings of Lord Shiva to Vanakovarayan. Sensing their defeat, they placed their
crowns (Mudi) on the battlefield and left to their kingdom. Thus, the place
came to be called as Mummudi.