The Story of Kungiliya Kalaya Nayanar

In the Chozha kingdom, in the town of Kadavur, lived a devout Brahmin named Kalaya. His life's passion was to serve Shiva by burning kunguliyam, a fragrant resin, as an offering. He spent all his money on this sacred task, eventually leaving his family with nothing to eat.

One day, his wife, who had no jewelry left, gave him her mangal sutra—a sacred necklace signifying her married status—to sell for food. As Kalaya walked to the market, he saw a merchant selling kunguliyam. Overjoyed at the chance to continue his service, he traded his wife's necklace for a large sack of the resin. He immediately went to the temple and began burning it for Shiva, completely forgetting about his hungry family.

To reward his unwavering devotion, Shiva filled Kalaya's house with immense wealth while his family slept. Kalaya's wife woke up to find their home transformed from a place of poverty to one of great riches. At the same time, Shiva appeared to Kalaya and told him to go home and eat.

Kalaya returned to a house he didn't recognize. He was confused until his wife explained Shiva's divine intervention. Together, they gave thanks to the Lord and hosted a grand feast for other devotees. With his newfound wealth, Kalaya continued his service to Shiva.

Later, Kalaya traveled to another town where a large Shivalinga had become slanted. People were trying to set it upright, but their efforts were failing. Kalaya, with great love in his heart, tied a rope around the lingam and the other end around his own neck. He pulled with all his might, not with physical strength but with the power of his devotion. Miraculously, the lingam straightened. Shiva was so moved by this selfless act that flowers rained down from the heavens. The local king, witnessing this, fell at Kalaya's feet.

Kalaya continued his life of service and eventually passed away, joining Shiva in his divine abode. His story is a testament to his simple, pure, and unwavering devotion.