Alvargal Varlaru (7th Part) (Tamil) Old Book

"Alvargal Varlaru" (ஆழ்வார்கள் வரலாறு) in Tamil refers to the history of the Alvars. The Alvars are a group of 12 poet-saints of South India who lived between the 6th and 9th centuries CE. They were devout followers of Vishnu and are celebrated for their compositions in Tamil, which are collectively known as the Naalayira Divya Prabandham (4000 Divine Compositions).

Their stories and hymns are central to the Vaishnava tradition, especially the Sri Vaishnava school of Hinduism. Their works are considered so significant that they are often referred to as the "Tamil Vedas" and are revered on par with the Sanskrit scriptures.

Key Aspects of Alvargal Varlaru

• The 12 Alvars: The tradition recognizes a total of 12 Alvars, each with their own unique story, life, and poetic contributions. They are:
  1. Poigai Alvar
  2. Bhutath Alvar
  3. Pey Alvar
  4. Thirumalisai Alvar
  5. Nammalvar
  6. Madhurakavi Alvar
  7. Kulasekhara Alvar
  8. Periyalvar
  9. Andal
  10. Thondaradippodi Alvar
  11. Thiruppaan Alvar
  12. Thirumangai Alvar
• "Mudal Alvargal" (The First Alvars): Poigai Alvar, Bhutath Alvar, and Pey Alvar are collectively known as the "Mudal Alvargal" as they are believed to have been contemporaries and the earliest of the group.
• Andal: Andal is the only female Alvar and is particularly revered for her deep devotion and two beautiful compositions, the Thiruppavai and the Nachiar Thirumozhi.
• The Naalayira Divya Prabandham: This is the most important collection of the Alvars' works. It was compiled by the sage Nathamuni in the 9th century. This collection of 4,000 verses is a masterpiece of Tamil literature and a cornerstone of Sri Vaishnava philosophy.
• "Mangalasasanam": The Alvars' hymns are often associated with specific temples, known as "Divya Desams." When an Alvar composes a hymn in praise of the deity in a particular temple, it is called a "Mangalasasanam," and that temple becomes one of the 108 Divya Desams.

The history of the Alvars is not just a collection of biographical details but also a narrative of profound spiritual experiences, divine intervention, and the expression of intense love and devotion (bhakti) for Vishnu. Their lives and works continue to inspire millions of people, making "Alvargal Varlaru" a vital part of Tamil religious and cultural heritage.