The Story of Tirunilakantha Yazhpana Nayanar

Tirunilakantha Yazhpana Nayanar was a great musician from the town of Tiru-erukattam Puliyur, renowned for his mastery of the ancient stringed instrument called the yazh. His music was not merely an art form; it was his supreme act of devotion to Lord Shiva. He traveled to many temples, offering his beautiful melodies as a form of worship.

His journey took him to the sacred city of Madurai, where his music was so captivating that Shiva, the Lord of all music, was deeply pleased. A divine voice commanded the temple devotees to bring Yazhpana Nayanar to the altar. The voice also instructed them to place a short bench on the floor for him, so the coolness of the earth would not affect the sound of his instrument. This special honor showed the great favor the musician received from the Lord.

After traveling to other holy places, Yazhpana Nayanar's path led him to Sirkazhi, where he met the young saint Tirugnana Sambandhar. He was so inspired by the saint's divine hymns that he and his wife became his dedicated followers. From then on, Yazhpana Nayanar would play his yazh, providing musical accompaniment to Sambandhar's songs wherever they went. He continued this service for the rest of his life and, along with Sambandhar, ultimately attained a place at the feet of Shiva.