Celestial beings, unable to bear torment of demonic forces, sought refuge in Lord Shiva.
From His infinite compassion, one crore
Rudras emerged from His divine form, each adorned with matted locks, garlands
made of skulls and jewels with serpent symbols, wielding trident, bow, arrow, and discus in
their four-armed hands.
Lord Shiva commanded Rudras to protect universe by destroying demons and evil creatures
disturbing sadhus and devas. When Lord Vishnu began churning ocean to offer Amrudh to devas,
new demons emerged from excavated Mount Manthiragiri. Though initially hesitant to slay
these demons who had once performed penance, Rudras were comforted by Lord Shiva, who told
them they could atone for any sins by praying to Lord Vedagireeswarar on Mother Earth.
After fulfilling their duty, one crore Rudras descended to worship Lord Vedagireeswarar.
Overwhelmed by sanctity of mountain sound of waterfalls, sandalwood-scented plants, and
crystal platforms they began their worship. Lord Shiva transformed Himself into one crore
Shivalingas, allowing each Rudra to perform individual poojas with pure scented water and
fragrant flowers.
Immensely pleased, Lord Shiva absorbed all the Shivalingas into His heart and revealed His
true form. Rudras requested land be named after them, thus becoming Rudrakodi
Sthalam, with temple named Rudrakoteeshwarar and sacred lake called
Rudrakodi Theertham.
