Thiruvalangadu, north of Madras, is associated with the dance contest between Shiva and his consort in the form of Kali. According to legend, Shiva danced vigorously, and to subdue Kali, threw up his leg in the rhythm of the dance. Being a lady, Kali could not repeat this feat and stood dismayed. This dance and the subjugation of Kali, are described in the hymns of the female saint-poet Karaikkal Ammai. The sculpture of Kali captures her utter dismay and alarm at loosing the dance compettion.
Shiva's sculpture captures his victory over his beloved consort.
It is an amazing technical act that the metal artist could portray Shiva dancing with one leg thrown up and barely balancing on the tow of the other and still preserve the absolute beauty of the dance proportionally and with restraint. It should be considered a marvel.
Kali was the patron goddess of Thillai Forest. Lord Shiva came to the forest to dance for two of his devotees Patanjali and Vyaaghrapaada who worshipped the svayambhu-linga, now in the inner sanctum of the temple. Kali challenged Shiva to a dancing contest on the condition that the loser had to leave the forest. The contest was judged by Lord Vishnu. The dance contest went on for hours with every one of Shiva's dance postures being matched by Kali. Shiva performed a posture with his left leg lifted over his head in the Ananda Tandava exposing his genital area. Kali, being a respectable woman, was unable to go into this compromising position. Thus, Kali admitted defeat and left the forest.
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