the Ultimate Web on Indian Gods & Temples

 by Padmani,

Abodes of Shiva

Melsevur can be reached by buses plying from Vallam to Kongarapattu and there is a town bus service from Gingee.

The temple was built in 928 A.D. by Paranthaka Chozha I, who covered the vimanam of the sanctum sanctorum of the Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram with gold. The inscriptions found in the compound walls of the temple show that Paranthaka Chozha, started the construction of the temple, which was continued by Rajarajakesari Varman. Rajaraja Sambuvarayar gifted lands and Rajendra Chozha and Kulothungan I also made many gifts during their reign.

According to legend the place was known as Aavur and Vidaiyoor in times of yore. Chandikeswarar, who was cursed by Sage Durvasa, was born as Kamala Munivar and worshipped the Sivalingam here. But it was covered by an anthill later and Nandikeswarar tried to remove it with his hoof. Blood oozed from the Lingam and it was washed by Ganga who flowed as Sankarabarani river. Goddess Mangalambigai, also known as Gunasamvardhini, emerged from the sacrificial pit and married the Lord known as Rishabanathar.