The Story of Kazharsinga Nayanar

Kazharsinga Nayanar was a powerful Pallava king and a lion on the battlefield, but in his heart, he was a humble devotee of Shiva. His life's goal was to attain the feet of the Lord. He ruled his kingdom justly and with great devotion.

One day, he went to the temple in the sacred town of Tiruvarur with his queen. While the king was lost in worship, the queen was admiring the beautiful temple. She came to the hall where garlands were being made for Shiva. She noticed a fresh flower that had fallen from the garland-making dais. She picked it up and, out of impulse, smelled it.

A devoted servant named Seruthunai Nayanar was present and saw what happened. He was enraged that a flower meant for the Lord was sullied by a human's touch and scent. Without a moment's hesitation or regard for her royal status, he cut off the queen's nose as punishment for her act of indiscipline.

When the king came out and saw his queen screaming in pain, he asked who had committed such a crime. Seruthunai Nayanar stepped forward and explained what had transpired. The king, known for his righteous justice and deep devotion, did not blame the servant. Instead, he declared that the punishment was incomplete. Taking his own sword, he cut off his queen's hands, saying that they were equally guilty for having picked the flower.

This act of unwavering justice and devotion was celebrated by the heavens with a rain of flowers. Kazharsinga Nayanar continued to rule with righteousness, always keeping the holy feet of the Lord of Justice in his heart. After a long and praised life, he attained the sacred feet of Shiva.