When he was three, his parents took him to Sattainathar Siva Temple and told him to wait near the pond. Thirugnana Sambandar was born to a pious Brahmin couple in Sirkali in the 7th century after the father had prayed to Lord Siva for a worthy son who would reestablish the glory of Saivism. They taught that Siva is Love and that love (for all beings-indeed, for all existence) is the key to reaching Siva, the Supreme Being. Three of the most prominent Nayanars-Appar, Sambandar and Sundarar (composers of Thevaram hymns)-along with Manikkavasagar are called the Samayacharyas (teachers of the faith) referred to in Tamil as Nalvar, “The Four.” They promoted Saiva Siddhanta philosophy and culture, countering the incursion of Jainism and Buddhism. A festival dedicated to the 63 Nayanmars, the Arupathu Moovar Thiruvila, is held annually at Kapaleeswarar Temple in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
Several among these pious souls, coming from all segments of society-potter, fisherman, farmer, merchant, priest, hunter, washerman-composed devotional hymns that are sung to this day by devotees worldwide. Image: The four Saiva saints encircle God Siva, offering their Tamil songs in worship (right) the golden roof of Chidambaram Temple’s central sanctum in Tamil Nadu.ĭuring the 6th through 9th centuries, South India was home to 63 fervent devotees of Lord Siva who became known as the Nayanars (or Nayanars).
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