Kannappa is a legendary figure in Telugu and South Indian folklore, widely celebrated for his devotion to the Hindu god Shiva.[1] His story is closely connected with the Srikalahasteeswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh. Kannappa, originally a hunter, became renowned for offering his eyes to a Siva Lingam as an act of ultimate devotion. Before he could sacrifice both eyes, Shiva appeared and stopped him.[2][3][4]
- ^ M. Rama Rao (1970). Mohd. Abdul Waheed Khan (ed.). Select Andhra Temples. p. 16.
Tinna or Kaņņappa, a great devotee of this god, occupies a prominent place in the galaxy of Saiva devotees and his name is familiarly known all over south India.
- ^ Michell, George (2013). Southern India: A Guide to Monuments Sites & Museums. Roli Books Private Limited. ISBN 978-81-7436-903-1.
- ^ E, Desingu Setty (1990). The Veduvar of South India: Society and Religion. Inter-India Publications. ISBN 81-2100-237-0.
- ^ Dehejia, Vidya. Slaves of the Lord: The Path of the Tamil Saints. Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers, 1988. ISBN: 9788121503071.