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3 August 2026

Nirmala Sitharaman on Saiva Tirumurais

The topic provides useful cultural and historical context regarding Tamil literature and the Bhakti movement, which can be used as illustrative examples in GS1 Art and Culture answers.

1 min read 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • The Saiva Tirumurais consist of 12 volumes of devotional Tamil literature dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • These texts are credited with democratising Tamil literature by making devotional hymns accessible to common people, moving beyond the domain of scholars.
  • The Tirumurais contain specific musical structures known as 'panns', which are considered the historical roots of many ragas used in modern Carnatic music.
  • Traditional instruments associated with the performance of these hymns include the yazh, udukkai, and kottu.
  • The scriptures serve as historical archives; for example, the Periyapuranam by Sekkizhar records the conversion of King Mahendra Pallava to Saivism.
  • Sundaramurthy Nayanar's works document historical events such as the Battle of Nelveli.
  • The Thiruchendur Sthala Puranam is a notable text authored by Ventrimalai Kavirayar.

Questions

  1. Examine the role of the Bhakti movement literature in the democratisation of regional languages and its impact on the socio-cultural landscape of medieval India. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Discuss the significance of classical devotional literature as a repository of historical and cultural heritage in India. How do these texts bridge the gap between religious tradition and historical documentation? 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. The 'panns' mentioned in the context of Saiva Tirumurais are most closely associated with which of the following?

  2. Which of the following literary works is known for chronicling the conversion of King Mahendra Pallava to Saivism?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-08-03/nirmala-sitharaman-on-saiva-tirumurais