Brahmanda Purana and Padma Purana detail the history of the temple. During the Ramayana period, Ravana, the demon king abducted Sita, the wife of Rama who were both in the forest. Jatayu, the eagle king, fought a valiant battle with Ravana who was travelling with Sita in Pushpaka Vimana. Jatayu was severely injured in the battle and fell down to the ground. Jatayu was able to narrate the events to Rama who was in search of Sita. Jatayu died after narrating the events and Rama performed the rites. As per Hindu customs, the wife of the individual performing the final rites has to accompany him. Since Sita was not present, Bhumadevi appeared to accompany Rama from a golden lotus. The same legend is associated with Vijayaraghava Perumal temple in Thiruputkuzhi King Krita is believed to have worshiped Vishnu here.