பக்தியின் பாவை – ஆண்டாள் (ஓர் இலக்கிய – பக்தி இயக்க ஆய்வு)

Bhakti's Paavai – Andal (A Literary – Bhakti Movement Study)

Abstract

It is evident that the Alvars nurtured Tamil alongside Vaishnavism. Just as the Periya Puranam in Shaivism provides insight into its devotees, the Vishnu Puranam speaks about the Vaishnavite Alvars. What shines through every song in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham is the deep devotion and engagement of the Alvars. Andal is the one who demonstrated to the world through her own life that God can be attained by worshiping with faith and unwavering determination in one's heart. In Vaishnavism, love and devotion toward God are considered supreme, emphasizing that the highest state can only be achieved by worshiping the Divine with selfless love. This perspective is clearly reflected in Andal's verses. The methods of observing the Paavai Nombu (sacred vow) to seek the grace of Lord Krishna can be understood through her Thiruppavai hymns. This research paper analyzes Andal's birth, upbringing, expression of devotion, Paavai Nombu, and its social utility, backed by evidence from primary textual sources.