 The temple was visited by the Carnatic music composer Tyagaraja who composed a set of five songs collectively called the "Kovur Pancharatnam".According to legend, Goddess Kamakshi was performing "thapas" () on Panchagni (fire) in Maangaadu praying to Lord Shiva to marry Her.Her penance was so intense that the whole surroundings became very hot and all living beings started to suffer because of this enormous heat.