According to Hindu mythology, the sage Durvasa once cursed a gandharva to be born as a crab in the world. However, feeling sorry for the crab, Durvasa, however, assured him that he might regain his actual form in the next birth if he meditated upon Shiva.
Worshipping Shiva with utmost devotion in order to be guaranteed of a human birth in the next life, the crab incurred the jealousy of Indra who tried to kill him with a sword. However, at that instant, a hole manifested on the surface of the linga enabling the crab to escape.
People light Sesame or Gingelly oil lamps on Ashtami (Eighth day from New moon or full Moon), New moon days, Tuesdays and Saturdays to get cured of chronic illness.
This temple is often referred to as NandanKoil by the local people. Those born under Aslesha star should worship at the temple at least once in their lifetime.
The Goddess Adhi Parasakthi bestows the grace of Arumarundhu Nayaki at this temple. Aslesha is in the Zodiac sign of Cancer, which has many medicinal qualities and can offer assistance with taking medicines. If the Moon travels through Aslesha during the waning cycle, it is a powerful time for people to gain relief from illnesses and ailments. Aslesha is also a favorable star for conducting planetary (Navagraha) fire rituals or Dhanvantri poojas.
Aslesha nakshatra has the ability to help the body recover from mental and physical pain as well as heart sorrow. Some people may not struggle with physical ailments, but have mental illnesses or confusion. Aslesha star days are a positive time for these people to make offerings at Thirundhudevankudi for the Goddess Arumarundhu Nayaki. An abhishekham to Lord Sri Karkadeswarar (an aspect of Shiva) with milk from black tongued and black-nippled cow is also an auspicious offering to perform during Aslesha star days. This will assist with the healing process of a serious illness. Those who suffer from diabetes, blood pressure, cancer, heart problems, kidney disease, or stomach ailments will benefit by making an offering to Lord Shiva.
Generally, those born under Aslesha nakshatra have the medicinal character needed to recover from illness. They should offer vibhuti (sacred grey ash) to Sri Karkadeswarar and kumkum (vermillion powder) to Goddess Sri Arumarundhu Ambikai at the Thirundhudevankudi temple. They can also offer vibhuthi and kumkum to hospital patients if they cannot visit the temple. This is a remedy for strength to recover from illness. Tuesdays, New Moon days and Aslesha star days during the waning cycle are auspicious times for people to walk around the Thirundhudevankudi temple at least 36 times. This will also assist with health issues.