Question

Which god was worshipped by the Nayanars?

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

Hint:

Remember: Nayanars → Shaivism (Shiva devotees). Alvars → Vaishnavism (Vishnu devotees).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Who were the Nayanars?
The Nayanars were a group of Tamil Shaivite saints who lived between the 6th and 9th centuries CE in South India. They spread devotion through hymns and poems.
Step 2: Religious devotion.
They were ardent devotees of Lord Shiva and played a central role in the Bhakti movement. Their devotional works are preserved in the “Tirumurai.”
Step 3: Elimination of options.
- (A) Brahma: Creator god, not associated with Nayanar worship.
- (B) Vishnu: Worshipped by the Alvars, not the Nayanars.
- (C) Shiva: Correct — the main deity of Nayanar devotion.
- (D) Agni: Vedic fire god, not relevant here.
Conclusion: The Nayanars were worshippers of Lord Shiva.