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11 August 2026

Peria Puranam and Nayanmars

Peria Puranam is a significant literary and cultural work in Indian history that provides relevant context for questions on Bhakti movement literature and moral philosophy in GS1 and GS4.

1 min read Day 1 of 2 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • Peria Puranam was composed by Sekkizhaar, the Chief Minister of Kulothunga Chola II.
  • The work documents the lives of 63 Nayanmars (Saivite saints).
  • The text was written to promote a philosophy of selfless love, service, and sacrifice during a period of high material prosperity.
  • Nayanmars are characterized by their devotion to Lord Siva and the chanting of the Panchakshara mantra.
  • Somasimaara Nayanar, a devotee from Ambar, is noted for his commitment to conducting yagas and serving other devotees.
  • The narrative of Somasimaara Nayanar emphasizes the belief that service to devotees is equivalent to service to the Divine.

Part of a longer story

This is day 1 of 2 in Peria Puranam and the Nayanmars, which has been running since 11 August 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Discuss the role of literature in shaping the socio-religious landscape of medieval South India, with specific reference to the Peria Puranam. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The Bhakti movement played a pivotal role in democratizing spiritual access and fostering social cohesion in India. Analyze the significance of the Nayanmar tradition in this context. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Who was the author of the Peria Puranam?

  2. The Peria Puranam chronicles the lives of how many Nayanmars?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-08-11/peria-puranam-and-nayanmars