According to legend, enshrined within the Nakkara Hills of Kottayam, Kerala, lies the abode of Lord Shiva, known as Thirunakkara Devan. This sacred site owes its origin to a devout king of the Thekkumkur dynasty who resided in Thaliyil Palace, a mere kilometre away.

The king was an ardent worshipper of Vadakkumnathan, the presiding deity of Thrissur, which was 150 kilometres away. In an era with limited transportation, the king undertook this arduous pilgrimage every month to offer his prayers at the lord’s sanctum.

As age took hold, the journey became increasingly difficult for the king. One day, after a strenuous pilgrimage to Thrissur, he poured out his heart to the lord at the Sopana, the steps leading to the sanctum. “Oh Lord,” he cried, “I fear I may not have the strength to visit you again. Yet, the thought of living without your worship brings me unbearable sorrow. Please, take me to your abode and grant me salvation!”

His prayers complete, the king returned to the rest house. As he lay chanting the Panchakshara Mantram, the five-syllabled sacred mantra of Lord Shiva, a divine voice filled the air. “Your devotion pleases me,” it boomed. “You need not travel so far again. I shall...

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