Alangudi temple is one of the nine Navagraha sthalas (Temples of Nine planets) located in the Cauvery Delta region dedicated to planet Jupiter, called Dakshinamoorthy, the Guru. Lord Guru can be propitiated in the form of Sri Dakshinamurthy. Legend is that Siva consumed deadly poison, giving rise to the name Alangudi and deity being termed Apatsahayesvarar, indicating saviour during hard times. He is also known as Brihaspathi, due to his excellence in education and fine arts, possessing supreme intelligence. Parvathi, the consort of Lord Shiva. Sage Sukha, Rishi Viswamithra, Sage Agastya, Adisankara and several other holy men have worshipped at this shrine.