Kannappa

[2][3] Kannappa was born in present-day Andhra Pradesh as Thinna[1][4] into a hunter family from the Chenchu[5] His birthplace is often associated with Uduppura near Sri Kalahasti.

[6][7] Kannappa's devotion to Shiva began when he discovered the vayu linga (embodiment of air) while hunting in the forest.

Moved by this act of devotion, Shiva appeared and stopped him, restoring his sight and granting him liberation.

[citation needed] Kannappa is portrayed, along with other devotees, in the thousand-pillar corridor of the Meenakshi temple in Madurai.

[14] The scene of Kannappa's sacrifice is portrayed in Shaiva temple pillar reliefs of early Vijayanagara.

Painting, c. 1820 – c. 1825 , portrays Shiva intervening to prevent Kannappa from sacrificing his eye.
Statue of Kannappa at Tanjore Museum, Thanjavur