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Thirukkadaiyur, Tamil Nadu · 11.0775°, 79.8183°
The celebrated shrine where Shiva is held to have conquered death itself, saving the boy-sage Markandeya from Yama - hence his name Kala-samhara. A 9th-century Chola foundation expanded by the Thanjavur Nayaks, and a Paadal Petra Sthalam of the Tevaram.
What follows is the temple’s own traditional account, transmitted through liturgy and local memory. It is recorded here as tradition, not as attested history.
When Yama came for the sixteen-year-old devotee Markandeya, Shiva burst from the lingam and subdued death, granting the boy eternal youth.
coordinates: wikipedia-2026-08-27 · sources retrieved 2026-08-26 · dynasty page: Chola
Answers only from cited records
Opening the line…