Sundara Murti Nayanar

Sundarar, also known as Sundaramoorthy Nayanar, is one of the three most important Nayanars, the revered saints who worshipped Lord Shiva in Tamil Nadu. He was born in Tirunavalur to a Brahmin family, with his father being Sadaiya Nayanar and his mother Isaignaniyar – both of whom are also among the 63 Nayanars. What makes Sundarar's story unique is his divine origin: he's believed to be an attendant of Lord Shiva from Mount Kailash named Alala Sundarar, who was sent to Earth after an offense. Shiva promised he would eventually bring him back to Kailash. From a young age, Sundarar was known for his striking good looks, which earned him his name, meaning "beautiful one."

While he was on his way to his wedding with his intended bride, a Brahmin elder suddenly appeared and stopped the ceremony. He claimed Sundarar was his servant based on an ancient palm-leaf document. This elder was, in fact, Lord Shiva Himself, who had come in disguise to reclaim Sundarar and divert him from worldly life to divine service. The dispute was taken to the local court, where the ancient document was verified, confirming Sundarar's servitude. Eventually, Shiva revealed His true form at the Tiruvennainallur temple, commanding Sundarar to sing His praises in Tamil. This marked the beginning of Sundarar's spiritual journey and his unique relationship with Shiva as a "friend."

He [Sundarar] often demanded things from Shiva, and Shiva would often help him. Sundarar traveled extensively, visiting countless Shiva temples and composing thousands of hymns for the Tevaram collection. A key companion on his journeys was Tiruneelakantha Yazhpana Nayanar, a musician who played his yazh alongside Sundarar's songs. Sundarar also famously listed and praised 62 other Nayanars in his unique hymn, the Thiruthonda Thogai.

Sundarar's life was marked by many miracles that highlighted Shiva's deep affection for him, like retrieving gold from a tank or bringing a boy back to life. These events showed the extraordinary bond they shared. His hymns, found in the seventh Tirumurai of the Tevaram, are full of philosophical depth and descriptions of Shiva's glory. His most significant contribution is the Thiruthonda Thogai, which is the foundational text for the much larger epic, the Periya Puranam, a detailed account of all 63 Nayanars. Sundarar's approach to Shiva, treating Him as a close friend, set him apart and greatly influenced the Bhakti movement. His journey ended at the age of eighteen when Lord Shiva sent a white elephant (Airavata) to carry him back to Mount Kailash, fulfilling His original promise. Sundarar's life and hymns continue to inspire millions, offering a path of intimate and unique devotion.