Alvars

The Alvars are a group of 12 Tamil Hindu saints who are revered for their devotion to the god Vishnu. They are considered to be the first to sing the praises of Vishnu in Tamil, and their songs, known as the Divya Prabandham, are a significant part of Tamil literature. The Alvars are divided into two groups: the Nayanmars and the Alvars proper. The Nayanmars are six in number and are believed to have lived in the 6th century CE, while the Alvars proper are six in number and are believed to have lived in the 8th century CE. The Alvars are known for their intense devotion to Vishnu and their ability to sing his praises in a way that is both beautiful and meaningful. Their songs are often characterized by their use of metaphors and their ability to convey deep spiritual truths in a simple and accessible way. The Alvars are also known for their ability to inspire others to follow in their footsteps and to devote themselves to the service of Vishnu. They are considered to be some of the most important figures in Tamil Hindu history and their legacy continues to be celebrated and honored today.