Periyapuranam

Periyapuranam is a Tamil epic poem composed by Sekkizhar in the 12th century CE. It is a hagiography detailing the lives of the sixty-three Nayanars, the devoted saints of Shiva. The work is considered a masterpiece of Tamil literature and a significant text in Shaivism, the tradition of Hinduism that worships Shiva.

The Periyapuranam, meaning "Great Purana" or "Great Legend," was commissioned by the Chola king Anapaya Chola. Sekkizhar spent years researching and compiling the stories of these saints, drawing from earlier traditions and oral histories. The epic is structured into verses that narrate the individual lives and spiritual journeys of each Nayanar, emphasizing their unwavering devotion, miraculous deeds, and ultimate union with Shiva.

The poem is renowned for its poetic excellence, vivid descriptions, and profound philosophical insights. It not only serves as a religious text but also offers a glimpse into the social, cultural, and historical context of medieval Tamil Nadu. The Periyapuranam has inspired countless artworks, devotional songs, and theatrical performances, and remains a revered text for Tamil Hindus, particularly those belonging to the Shaivite tradition. It is seen as a testament to the power of Bhakti, or devotional love, and its ability to transform human lives.