Chandramouleeswarar Brahmadesam is an ancient Pallava period temple, built by Kambavarma Pallava (7th Century CE), which was later developed by the Cholas. The temple was in its glory days during the Pallava, Chola, Ganga, Rashtrakoota, and later Chola periods. There are more than 90 stone inscriptions all around the sanctum sanctorum. The place is mentioned as Rajamala Chaturvedi Mangalam, Karaikoodu Brahmatheyam, and the name of the Lord as Thirupoondai Aandar. The inscriptions mention the establishment of Thanneer Pandal (drinking water provision), Queen Veeramadevi, wife of Rajendra Chola I, who underwent Sati at the death of her husband, functions of the Mutt, and festival celebrations of the temple. Inscriptions of Kulothunga Chola II mention land donations. The place was also gifted to Brahmins to propagate the Vedas as is evident from the Chaturvedi Mangalam and Brahmadesam names mentioned in the inscriptions. An inscription on the north side mentions the words ‘drairajya kadikamathyastha moovayiravar’ and ‘kadigai aezhayiravar’. This indicates the existence of a University here and that 3000 – 7000 students studied the Vedas here at Chandramouleeswarar Brahmadesam.
During the reign of the Gangas, the place was called Rasamalla Chaturvedi Mangalam. During the period of Rajaraja Chola regular recital of Thevaram Hymns used to take place here. During the reign of Rajendra I free food was provided to pilgrims coming back from Tirupati. The temple had two large lakes namely Kundavai and Sundara Chola Pereri (lakes). The existence of a village administration system, rules, and regulations are mentioned in the inscriptions.
The name of the lord is mentioned as Pondhai Perumanadigal, Pondhai Azhwar and Pondhai Easwarar in the inscriptions. Pondhai means the Palmyra Palm Tree.
