According to Hindu mythology, Manmatha the Hindu Cupid provoked the ire of Shiva and was burnt to death. The Puradhana Vaneswarar Temple in neighbouring Pattukkottai lies on the spot where the alleged incident took place. However, on Yama's request, Manmatha was restored to life. The Yama Dharmaraja Temple is believed to have been built at the spot where he was restored to life.