2. Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend

Chola Legacy: While exact construction dates are obscured by the mists of time, temple inscriptions and architectural evidence point to the Chola Dynasty as the primary builders. Numerous inscriptions from the Chola period are preserved on the temple walls, detailing land grants and endowments.

Saivite Canon: The temple finds its place in the Tevaram, the 7th-century Tamil Saiva canonical work by the Nayanars (saint poets). Specifically, Sundarar (Thirunavukkarasar) sang hymns praising the loneliness and serenity of this shrine.

Local Lore (Sthala Purana):

• Rama & Sugriva: Legend holds that Sugriva suggested building the bridge to Lanka (Ramasetu) from Kodiakkarai, as it is geographically closer. However, Lord Rama refused, stating it was adharmic to attack Ravana from behind. He moved to Dhanushkodi to establish a front-facing approach. Before departing, Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here, and his footprints are preserved near the temple sanctum.
• The Nectar (Amrita): During the churning of the cosmic ocean, Vayu (wind god) held the pot of nectar. Asuras caused a disturbance, tilting the pot. A drop of nectar fell here, forming the Swayambhu Lingam. Meanwhile, Lord Muruga (Subramanya) collected the remaining nectar in a pot (Amrita Kalasam), an idol of which is found in the prakaram (circumambulatory path).