There
are several legends connected with this shrine. One is as follows: In the south-eastern
corner of the prakaram, a Siva Lingam, known as Anavarata Khan, has been enshrined. It is
said that the wife of one of the Nawabs was suffering from some acute disease and
consulted Brahmins as to how she might be cured of it.
The Brahmins advised her to worship Nellaiappar
and perform some religious ceremonies in the temple. She readily agreed. To the surprise
of all, the Muslim queen not only recovered from her disease but also gave birth to
a male child. The boy was named Anavarata Khan and the shrine was built in a corner of the
prakaram in memory of the Muslim queen and the prince. |
