When the mother of the Rayar was about to die, she wanted a mango fruit to eat, but before it was brought she expired. The Rayar was very sorry that he was not able to fulfil the last wishes of his mother, and sending for some Brahmans he said to them:- "My mother set her heart on a mango fruit but died before it was given her. By what means can I appease her soul? To this, they replied:- "If you make mango fruits of gold and present them as gifts to Brahmans on the occasion of the annual ceremony of your mother her soul will be pacified." The Rayar believed it and made the gifts accordingly. Next day Tennalirama invited to his house all those Brahmans who had received such gifts saying that the annual ceremony of his mother was taking place in his house. There he heated the handle of an iron ladle and cauterized each guest in two places. They all went away weeping and reported the matter to the Rayar. The Rayar sent for Tennalirama and said:- "Why did you do this outrageous act?" He said: "My mother in her last moments was suffering from convulsions in her hands and feet. Cauterizing was recommended. But before the hot handle of the iron ladle could be brought she expired. To appease her soul, I acted in this manner." On hearing this explanation the Rayar laughed long and loud.
