The story of saiva saints/46. KALIYA NAYANAR
46. KALIYA NAYANAR
In Thiruvotriyur there lived a Saint in a caste called Sakkarappadiyar (owning oil-press). His name was Kaliyanar. He used to conduct the service of lighting lamps throughout the temple. Alas! he became poor. He engaged himself as a worker in oilpress, got wages and continued his services in the temple. After somu time, he could not get employment in the oil-press. Hence he wanted to sell his wife. None came forward to purchase her. The hour to light the lamps came. He determined to use his blood in the place of oil to light the lamps and he was about to cut his throat. Hurrah! The Lord held his hands from cutting his throat and blessed him with salvation.