திருக்கோவையாரில் ஆடல் கலைச் செய்திகளும் மெய்ப்பாட்டியல் கோட்பாடுகளும்: ஓர் விரிவான புலமைத்துவ ஆய்வு

Dance Arts and Aesthetic Theories (Meippattiyal) in Tirukkovaiyar: A Comprehensive Scholarly Study

Abstract

Tirukkovaiyar, positioned as the Eighth Thirumurai in the Tamil Shaiva Bhakti literary canon, is a unique Kovai treatise that deeply articulates the nuances of Shaiva Siddhanta theology through the framework of Akam (interior love) poetry. Authored by Saint Manikkavasagar, this work uses worldly romantic conduct as a foundation to artfully depict the philosophical relationship between the individual soul (Atman) and the Supreme Being (Paramatman). The references to "dance" within this text transcend mere artistic performance, evolving into symbols of cosmic movement and the fivefold activities (Pancha Kritya) of the Supreme Deity.

This study extensively examines the dance forms featured in Tirukkovaiyar—including Lord Nataraja’s Thillai Dance, Ananda Tandava, Pandarangam, Veriyatal, and Kuravai Koothu—along with their associated Sattvika aesthetic expressions (Meippatukal). Through a comparative approach, it establishes how the verses of Tirukkovaiyar align with the eight emotional expressions of Tolkappiyam’s Meippattiyal, the principles of Bharata Muni’s Natya Shastra, and the Navarasa concepts of Mahabharata Chudamani. Furthermore, textual references regarding Aharya Abhinaya (costumes, makeup, and ornaments) of both dancing maidens and the Deity, as well as data concerning musical instruments such as the Muzhavu (drum), are analytically evaluated with evidence. By demonstrating the convergence of devotional fervor, artistic refinement, and philosophical depth, this paper highlights how dance functions as a medium for spiritual elevation.