Periyalvar, The Great Azhwar… Periyalvar (originally named Vishnuchittar) is one of the most unique and beloved figures among the 12 Alvars. While most devotees approach God seeking protection, wealth, or liberation, Vishnuchittar approached God with the protective love of a mother. He was constantly worried about the Lord’s safety and well-being. Because his love was […]
Alvars
Alvars (Azhwars), Vaishnava Saint Poets
Alvars (Azhwars), Vaishnava Saint Poets… The word Alvar (or Azhwar) translates beautifully from Tamil as “one who is immersed” — specifically, immersed in the deep, ecstatic love of Lord Vishnu. They were 12 mystic poet-saints who lived in the Tamil region of South India between the 5th and 10th centuries CE. Together, they formed the […]
Kulashekhara Alvar
Kulashekhara Alvar… Kulashekhara Alvar was a powerful king of the Chera dynasty (in modern-day Kerala) who willingly abdicated his throne because all of his royal wealth and power felt meaningless compared to his overwhelming love for the Divine. If you are exploring traditional narratives around Lord Venkateswara or Sri Rama, Kulashekhara Alvar is arguably the […]
Thiruppaan Alvar (Tiruppan Azhwar)
Thiruppaan Alvar (or Tiruppan Azhwar) is one of the most powerful symbols of social and spiritual equality in the Sri Vaishnava sampradaya. His life definitively proved that in the eyes of God, pure devotion completely erases all barriers of caste, wealth, and social birth. The “Muni Vahana” Legend Thiruppaan Alvar was born in Uraiyur into […]