Constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture, the temple is glorified in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the early medieval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the 6th–9th centuries CE.

The temple is believed to have been built by the Medieval Cholas of the late 8th century CE, with later contributions from Vijayanagara kings and Madurai Nayaks.

Six daily rituals and three yearly festivals are held at the temple, of which the Brahmostvam, celebrated during the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May–June), is the most prominent.

As per Hindu mythology, the asura Hiranyaksha abducted Bhumi, the goddess of the earth, and travelled to the netherworld, called Patala.

Thirumangai Alvar quotes the incident and calls the village as Pugunthaan Oor, meaning the place where Vishnu went inside the earth.

The gap seen in the sanctum close to the image of Jagad Rakshaka is believed to be the centre point of earth and all devas came together to worship him.

[1] As per Hindu legend, King Ambarisha who immersed himself in the worship of Vishnu, failed to strengthen his army and lost his kingdom.

The king Ambarishan is believed to have built the temple and hence the presiding deity is also called Ambarisha Varadhar at this place.

[4] The temple is believed to have been built by the Medieval Cholas of the late 8th century CE, with later contributions from Vijayanagara kings and Madurai Nayaks.

The temple is revered in Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the 7th–9th century Vaishnava canon, by Thirumangai Alvar in one hymn.

Srisukta Homam, a religious practice, is performed in the temple with 108 lotus leaves on full moon days.