Legend says that Kumaraswamy (Lord Muruga) performed penance at this teerth to get himself rid of sin of Brahmahatya incurred by slaying Tarakasura. Hence it is known by the name 'Kumaradhara'.

It is said that taking bathe here on the full moon day in the month of Magha (February) will yield the cumulative merit of the baths in the Ganges and other sacred rivers.