Shiva Temples of Tamilnadu

The Story Behind the Name "Thurai Kaattum Vallal"

Arulviththan's Devotion

The presiding deity of this temple is revered as Thurai Kaattum Vallal, meaning "The Benevolent One Who Shows the Ford," a name that reflects His boundless compassion in guiding devotees through danger and adversity. According to the Sthala Puranam, a devout devotee named Arulviththan offered a fresh flower garland to the deity every day. Wishing to test the depth of his devotion, Shiva caused the River Kaveri to swell while Arulviththan was crossing it with his basket of flowers. Though alarmed by the rising waters, the devotee's only concern was to protect the flowers meant for the deity. Holding the basket high above his head, he continued through the flood with unwavering faith. Moved by his steadfast devotion, Shiva manifested before him and revealed a safe ford across the river, enabling him to reach the temple. From that day onward, the deity came to be worshipped as Thurai Kaattum Vallal.

Thirugnanasambandar's Divine Crossing

According to the Sthala Puranam, when Thirugyanasambandar visited this temple, he found the River Kaveri in full flood and was unable to cross it. At that moment, a hunter appeared and offered to guide him across the river. As Sambandar followed him, the floodwaters miraculously parted, revealing a safe passage. Upon reaching the opposite bank, the hunter disappeared, and the saint realized that it was none other than Lord Shiva Himself who had assumed the hunter's form to lead him safely across. This divine act further established the title, Thurai Kaattum Vallal, "The Benevolent One Who Shows the Ford." In the concluding verse of his Thevaram pathikam on this temple, Thirugnanasambandar proclaims that those who recite and meditate daily upon these sacred hymns, filled with both spiritual greatness and poetic sweetness, will be freed from sin, relieved of sorrow and suffering, and attain the path to spiritual liberation.