Kalangi Nathar

Kalangi Nathar was an Indian ascetic who belonged to both the natha tradition of northern India and the siddha tradition of southern India. He was the guru of saint Bhogar and was born in Varanasi and belonged to the ancient tradition of nava (nine) nātha sadhus (holy ascetics), tracing their tradition to Shiva.

There are 18 Siddhars popularly known in Tamil literature. Kalangi Nathar is the one among the 18 Siddhars. Kalangi stayed in Sathuragiri Hills and in Pothigai hills and is believed to have controlled wild animals with mantras. Kalangi is known for his tall physique and was an expert in the art of breath control (vaasi yogam).

Kalangi nathar is a disiple of siddhar Thirumular and he is considered to be one of his seven pupils. He is associated with the Kanjamalai hill in southern India and is often referred to us "Kanjamalai Siddhar". He attained mukti on this hill, near Kanchipuram, where his samadhi, now known as the Sidhhar Kovil temple, is still located. The hill is found in Sivathapuram a small village, 12 km away from Salem, India, enroute to Elampillai. The temple is also associated with Kali and Murugan.