22/06/2026
Periyazhwar (born as Vishnuchittar) is one of the twelve revered Azhwar poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava tradition. Hailing from Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu, he is famously known as the adoptive father of Andal (the only female Azhwar) and the composer of the Thiruppallandu, which opens the Nalayira Divya Prabandham.Key HighlightsName Meaning: He was originally named Vishnuchittar (meaning "one who has Vishnu in his mind"). He came to be called Periyazhwar (the "Elder Azhwar") due to a deeply emotional legend where he blessed the Lord for His safety, taking on the role of an elder protecting the Almighty.The Royal Debate: According to legend, he won a massive scholarly debate in the court of the Pandyan King Vallabhadeva in Madurai by explaining that total surrender (Bhakti) is the only true path to salvation (Moksha).Foster Father of Andal: He found a baby girl under a Tulasi plant in the temple garden at Srivilliputhur and raised her as his own daughter. She later became known as Andal and merged with Lord Ranganatha. Because of this, Periyazhwar is considered the father-in-law of the Lord Himself.Major ContributionsThiruppallandu: While riding on the royal elephant after winning the debate at Madurai, he was blessed with a vision of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi in the sky. Out of intense, pure devotion, he was struck by the thought of the evil eye or danger befalling the Lord and sang a hymn of benediction wishing the Lord to live for millions of years. This collection is placed at the very beginning of the Divya Prabandham.Periyazhwar Thirumozhi: A collection of hymns focusing deeply on Vatsalya Bhava (parental affection). He wrote these verses imagining himself as Yashoda, pouring out his love by singing about Lord Krishna's childhood, mischiefs, and beauty.The Temple ConnectionReturning to Srivilliputhur, he utilized the gold coins awarded by the Pandyan King to build a massive, towering Rajagopuram for the Vadapadrasayi temple. He spent the rest of his life tending to the garden and weaving flower garlands for the Lord.Learn MoreTo explore his hymns and life in depth, you can read the complete verses or commentaries available on these authentic Sri Vaishnava platforms:Browse his translated works on the KOYIL Divya Prabandham Database.Read about his saintly history and lineage on Acharyas.org.
