Pugazh Thunai Nayanar was born in Seruviliputhur (Ceriviliputthur), presently known as Alagaputhur and located in the Thanjavur district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. He belonged to Adi Shaiva sub-sect of Shaivism and belonged to the Brahmin (priest) caste. The Nayanar was a staunch devotee of Shiva, the patron god of Shaivism. He worked as the pujari (temple priest) at the Shiva temple. The temple is identified as Padikasu Nathar Temple of Alagaputhur. As per his daily priestly duties, he used to bathe (see Abhisheka) the Lingam (aniconic image of Shiva and central icon in the temple) with cool and fragrant water.