It is believed that there is
no death when consumed Amirtham. Likewise, if we offer our prayers to
Amirthakadeshwarar, there would be no Yama Fear. This is the reason why
Markandeyar migrated  here from his
native place Thondi and had settled in T. Manalmedu (0.5 kms southwest of
Thirukadaiyur). He had worshipped  Lord
Amirthakadeshwar,  offered  Abishegam from the Holy Ganga water to
increase his life longevity, since his death was fixed on the day of his
completing 16 years. Accordingly, on that particular day when Markandeyar
completes his 16 years, Lord Yama appeared to take his Ayul. Lord Shiva for the
sake of his sincere devotee Markandeyar, took the form of Rudra – Rudra
Avadaaram (Man form) and had kicked Lord Yama with his left leg and killed Yama.
Since Lord Shiva Killed Kaalan (Yaman), he is popularly known as Kaala Samhara
Murthy. This event of Yama Samharam is still popular in Thirukadaiyur which
takes every year during the First month of the Tamil Year Chithirai (Mesha
Month) during Magam star.