Although all the Graha temples are briefed we would like to bring to your attention a very important temple which is also placed in the Navagraha temple areas.

This temple is associated with the legend of Shiva saving his young devotee Markendaya from death. As Markandeya grew, so did his devotion to Lordshiva and worshipped the Lord Shiva Lingam at Thirukadaiyur. Even bringing water from the Ganges to the temple via an underground passage.

On the day he was destined to die, Yama, the deity of death, appeared with his nooses to tie around the soul of Markedaya and take it with him. Markendaya sought refuge in the temple and embraced the Siva Lingam. Lord Shiva appeared and warned Yama not to touch Markendaya, as he was under his protection. Yama refused to listen and threw the noose anyway binding Markendaya and Lingam together. Angered by Yama's extraordinary arrogance Shiva kicked him and held him under his foot making Yama inactive and Markendaya was blessed by Shiva to remain sixteen years old eternally.

Based on the legend of Markendeya, it is believed that worshipping at this temple will give longevity to couples who have reached age sixty or eighty-one. Normally such remarriage ceremonies are conducted by the devotee's children and paid for by the children with a small gathering to witness the remarriage so that they have the Markendayan effect. There are also facilities for the boarding and the remarriage group gatherings.