MAILAM - MURUGAN TEMPLE

Accordingly he was born as Balasiddha; but was refused Sakshatkara of Muruga; for, he was a Sivaaparadi -  one who did harm to Siva. He then prayed to Valli and Devasena, to intervene and to lift the curse. When they pleaded for "Balasiddhar's emancipation, Muruga remained stubborn. In utter desperation, Valli and Devasena settled down at the Balasiddhar's asram down below the hill. Unable to bear the pangs of separation, Muruga came disguised as hunter to the asram. Some frivolous talk between the hunter and Balasiddhar drew them to Mallayuddha. In the end, pleased with devotion, he blessed Balasiddhar with his darsan in the wedding robes as prayed for, and is abiding in the temple since then.

As the visitors go through the southern gate, they greet the beautiful images of Vinayaka and Visalakshi Viswanathar installed in separate minishrines. After prayers, they enter the Murugan sannidhi and avail the darsan of the Lord in his wedding robes flanked by Valli and Devasena in gorgeous dress. This grand sight is soul lifting and the visitors raising their hands offer soulful prayers. There is a Mutt, where Balasiddhar dwelt. It is also visited with equal fervour. Annual festivals, like Taipusam and Brahmotsav are celebrated on a grand scale attracting huge crowds.

It lies on the way -to Pondicherry from Tindivanam accessible by bus.

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