The Story of Kalikamba Nayanar

In the town of Pennakadam, a trader named Kalikamba Nayanar was renowned for his profound devotion to Shiva and his unwavering service to the god's followers. He lived a life free of worldly desires, finding his purpose in hosting feasts for devotees.

His hospitality was rooted in a deep respect for those who walked the path of Shiva. His daily ritual was to first humbly wash the feet of his guests before serving them a meal. His wife would assist him, pouring water while he performed this act of reverence.

One day, a devotee arrived who had once worked in their household as a servant. While Kalikamba Nayanar, with a heart full of love, prepared to wash the man's feet, his wife hesitated for a moment, unable to fully let go of her memory of his past social status.

This hesitation, however brief, infuriated Kalikamba Nayanar. He saw it as a grave disrespect to a devotee of Shiva. In a shocking act of devotion, he took a knife and cut off his wife's hand, which had shown reluctance. He then took the water pot himself and, with his own hands, completed the ritual of washing the devotee's feet.

This extreme act was a powerful statement that when it comes to serving Shiva's followers, all social distinctions and past statuses are meaningless. Kalikamba Nayanar continued his service with this same fierce dedication throughout his life, never allowing anything to come between him and his devotion. At the end of his life, he was granted a place at the holy feet of Shiva.