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12 August 2026

Somasimaara Nayanar and Peria Puranam

The topic provides historical and cultural context regarding the Bhakti movement and Tamil literature, which can be used as illustrative examples in GS1 and GS4 answers, though it is not a direct exam-focused policy or event.

1 min read Day 2 of 2 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • Peria Puranam was composed by Sekkizhaar, the Chief Minister of Kulothunga Chola II.
  • The text aims to highlight the philosophy of life during a period of high material prosperity.
  • It documents the lives of 63 Nayanmars (Saivite saints) characterized by selfless love and service.
  • Nayanmars are defined by their devotion to Lord Siva and the chanting of the Panchakshara mantra.
  • Somasimaara Nayanar was a Nayanmar from Ambar, known for performing yagas.
  • Somasimaara Nayanar emphasized the service of devotees, regardless of their social status.
  • The text recounts a legend where Siva and Parvati, accompanied by Vinayaka and Muruga, attended a yaga conducted by Somasimaara Nayanar at the request of the saint Sundarar.
  • Sundarar acknowledged Somasimaara Nayanar's devotion and service in his own writings.

Part of a longer story

This is day 2 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 significance of the Peria Puranam in understanding the socio-religious values of the Chola period. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The Bhakti movement in South India emphasized selfless service and devotion as a path to spiritual realization. Analyze this in the context of the lives of the Nayanmars as depicted in the Peria Puranam. 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/2026-08-12/somasimaara-nayanar-and-peria-puranam