Sundaramoorthy Nayanar
சுந்தரமூர்த்தி நாயனார்
by Srimathi Laxmi Veloo
012 620 9570
Sundarar: The Divine Wanderer Who Turned Miracles into Poetry
- Meet Sundarar: Step into the world of the legendary Sundarar, an eighth-century Poet-Saint who shook the spiritual landscape of Tamil Nadu with his divine verses and captivating journey.
- Childhood Charms: Born in the picturesque village of Thirunavalur, Sundarar’s story begins with humble roots. His parents, Sadaya Nayanar and Isaignaniyar, were not just ordinary folks—they were esteemed figures among the revered 63 Nayanmars.
- Divine Companion: Sundarar wasn’t just a devotee; he was the ultimate buddy of Lord Shiva himself! Known affectionately as “Thampiran Thozhan” and “Vanthondan,” he shared a special bond with the divine.
- Mount Kailash Mystique: Ever heard of a divine stint in Mount Kailash? Sundarar did! Legend has it that he once served Lord Shiva in the heavenly abode, going by the name Alala Sundararan.
- Divine Intervention: Sundarar’s life took a dramatic turn when Lord Shiva gatecrashed his wedding, revealing a celestial contract written on a palm leaf manuscript! Talk about a divine plot twist!
- Miraculous Feats: Sundarar wasn’t just a wordsmith; he was a miracle worker! From summoning rains to reviving the dead, his hymns packed a powerful punch of devotion.
- Pilgrimage Extraordinaire: Brace yourself for a spiritual adventure! Sundarar embarked on epic pilgrimages, covering over 84 temples on foot, spreading spiritual vibes like confetti.
- Legacy of Devotion: Sundarar’s compositions, including the timeless “Thiruppattu,” continue to inspire generations. His life story, intricately detailed in Saint Sekkizhar’s Periya Puranam, serves as a beacon of devotion.
- Celestial Farewell: Both Sundarar and his contemporary King Cheraman Perumal embarked on various pilgrimages together. However, when Sundarar reached Thiruvanchikulam, he became tired of life and requested Lord Shiva to take him up to his abode. It is said that Lord Shiva instructed the celestial gods to bring him to Mount Kailash on a white elephant. The king followed him on his horse. This occurred on a “Swathi Nakshtram” day in the Tamil month of “Aadi”.
- Spiritual Sage: Sundarar’s journey wasn’t just about poetic prowess; it was a testament to unwavering devotion and divine intervention. Dive into his world and be mesmerized by the mystical tales of a true spiritual sage.
