INDIAN HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The Alvars were twelve saint-poets who worshipped Vishnu. Periyalvar, Nammalvar and Andal, the daughter of Periyalvar, are some of them. Andal was the only woman among the Alvars.

Detailed explanation-2: -Sri Andal, Poyagai, Thirumangai Alvar, Thirumazhisai Alvar, Thiruppaan Alvar, Nammalwar, and Kulasekara Alvar are Alvar saints.

Detailed explanation-3: -The Nayanars were a group of 63 saints devoted to Lord Shiva who lived during the 6th to 8th centuries CE. The Alwars were Tamil poet-saints of South India who espoused devotion to the Lord Vishnu or his avatar Lord Krishna in their songs of longing, and service.

Detailed explanation-4: -Notes: Andal or Godadevi is the only female among 12 Alvar saints. She was active in 8th century and is credited for great Tamil works Thiruppavai and Nachiar Tirumozhi. A women’s group of South India called Goda Mandali is inspired from Andal.