 The "kumbha" is believed to have been displaced by a "pralaya" (dissolution of the universe) and ultimately came to rest at the spot where the town of Kumbakonam now stands.This event is now commemorated in the Mahamaham festival held every 12 years.Kumbakonam is also known as Baskarashetram and Kumbam from time immemorial and as Kudanthai in ancient times.