For non-Tamil speakers, here is the essence of the hymn:
Just as it cured the Pandya king, it is traditionally chanted during times of illness, anxiety, and physical suffering. manthiramavathu neeru thevaram lyrics in english link
The hymn emphasizes that the ash belongs to the Lord of Alavai (Madurai), who shares His form with Goddess Uma. The Meaning of the Opening Verse For non-Tamil speakers, here is the essence of