Periyalwar

Periyalwar, also known as Vishnuchitta, was one of the twelve Alvars, a Tamil poet-saint of the Vaishnavite tradition. He is considered the foremost among the Alvars and is credited with composing the Tiruppallandu, a collection of hymns in praise of Vishnu. Periyalwar's writings are characterized by their intense devotion and his unique perspective as a father figure to Vishnu. He is believed to have lived in the town of Srivilliputhur in Tamil Nadu. Legend states that he was an orphan raised by a priest in a temple dedicated to Vishnu and that his devotion was so profound that he was able to offer garlands to Vishnu directly. His daughter, Andal, also a renowned Alvar saint, is believed to have been his foster child. Periyalwar's hymns are an integral part of the Divya Prabandham, a compilation of the Tamil devotional poetry of the Alvars. His contributions have significantly shaped Vaishnavite philosophy and practice in South India, with Tiruppallandu being sung daily in many temples.