The story of saiva saints/19. THIRU NALAIPPOVAR NAYANAR
19. THIRU NALAIPPOVAR NAYANAR
In Athanur, there lived a pious man called Nanthanar. He was a Harijan or Adi Dravida. He had a craving for the Darsan of Lord Nataraja and hence he used to say "I will go to Chidambaram tomorrow." So he was popularly known by the name Thirunalaip povar (one who would go on the other day). He dug a tank at Thiruppungur. He wanted to have a darsan of Siva in the temple of Thiruppungur. Rishabha Devar or the Bull also gave way and he had the sight of Siva. Then after several severe tests by his land lord, he proceeded to Chidambaram, entered into a bonfire, came out as a Saint with sacred thread and matted locks to the astonishment of the Brahmins at Thillai. He then proceeded to the Golden Hall, worshipped Lord Nataraja and attained Siva Bliss.