Native placeChidambaram (Thillai)
Associated templeThillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram
Guru PujaThai - Visakam (Vichakam)
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The Life
A potter of the Kuyavar community at Chidambaram, Thiruneelakanta made earthen vessels and freely gave alms-bowls to Shiva's devotees, worshipping the Nilakanta (blue-throated) form of the Lord. When his wife once bound him with an oath, "in the name of our Nilakanta, do not touch us," he honoured her words absolutely; the couple lived chastely apart for the rest of their lives. In old age Shiva came disguised as a Saiva mendicant and left a begging-bowl in trust. Returning, He claimed it lost and demanded the aged pair clasp hands in the temple tank to swear their innocence. As their hands met, their youth was restored and Shiva revealed their lifelong purity to the world, granting them His grace.
சுந்தரர் (சுந்தரமூர்த்தி நாயனார்)Sundarar (Sundaramurthi Nayanar)
The comrade of Shiva whose wedding the Lord halted by claiming him as His bond-slave.
Thirunavalur (Tirunavalur), Nadu-naduRead the life ›
இயற்பகை நாயனார்Iyarpagai Nayanar
The Puhar merchant who surrendered even his own wife at a devotee's word.
Kaveripoompattinam (Puhar)Read the life ›
இளையான்குடி மாற நாயனார்Ilayankudi Mara Nayanar
The farmer who reaped his own seed-paddy in a storm to feed a devotee.
Ilayankudi (Sivaganga district), Chola countryRead the life ›