This is the place where all the 27 stars worshipped Lord Shiva. The Lord graced them to become Shivalingas. It is believed that those belonging to a particular birth star worship the Shivalinga, would be relieved of any bad aspect occupying them.

Tax exemption. Though terribly aged, king Mandhadan continued to live. Death did not visit him. He wanted to end his life by committing sins and raised the tax rates in his kingdom and sent official circulars to the chieftains under him. Lord Shiva made a correction in his order that the tax hike would not apply to Ottriyur. Knowing this, the king apologized to the Lord. One should not be frustrated under any circumstances is the message, the place teaches all.

There is a great tank outside the temple known as Brahmma Theerthakulam. Even just spilling the water on the head would cleanse the devotee of his/her sins, is the belief. Even without asking for, the place relieves the devotee of sins.

It is also said of this place that the stones scattered here and there are but Shivalingas and the dust the Sacred Ash. Sage Pattinathar attained Jeeva Samadhi in this place.

Lord Nataraja in the name of Thiagaraja appears in a sitting dancing form. 18 types of dances are performed during the Masi Magam festival (February-March) in the temple.

Creator Brahmma, born from the naval of Lord Vishnu began creating the world. He found a city even before He started His creation and wondered who did it. Lord Vishnu told him that was created by Lord Shiva and is called Adipuri meaning the first and oldest city. Lord Vishnu advised His son (Brahmma) to go to Tiruvottriyur and pray to Lord Shiva and then begin his job.

Brahmma came to this place and worshipped Lord Shiva. The Lord ordered the sea to move on (Othi) to facilitate Brahmma’s creation. Hence the place came to be known as Othiyur and in course of time changed to Ottriyur or Tiruvottriyur.