Question

Nayanars were devotees of which God?

• A. Agni
• B. Vishnu
• C. Indra
• D. Shiva

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The Nayanars were devoted to Lord Shiva, prominent in the Bhakti movement in Tamil Nadu.

Answer 2

The Nayanars were a group of Tamil saints and poets who were deeply devoted to Lord Shiva. They played a significant role in the Bhakti movement in Tamil Nadu during the early medieval period. The Nayanars emphasized the personal devotion and love for Shiva, challenging the formal rituals and advocating for a direct connection with the divine.

They composed devotional hymns known as the Tevaram, which are a key part of Tamil religious literature. These hymns express their deep emotional connection to Lord Shiva, often reflecting themes of love, devotion, and surrender. The Nayanars were from different social backgrounds, including brahmins, farmers, and outcasts, which highlighted the inclusivity of the Bhakti movement.

The Nayanars’ contributions helped spread the idea of Bhakti across India and influenced subsequent generations of religious and social reformers. Their devotion and poetry continue to be revered in Tamil culture, and their legacy remains integral to the spiritual and cultural history of Tamil Nadu.