Nayanars

Nayanars were a group of 63 poet-saints from South India, active between the 6th and 8th centuries, who passionately expressed devotion to Lord Shiva through devotional poetry and hymns. Their works, composed in Tamil, are celebrated for their emotional depth and theological insight, emphasizing personal devotion (bhakti) over ritualism. The Nayanars played a key role in shaping Tamil Shaivism and inspiring spiritual practice, often facing persecution for their beliefs. Their hymns are included in the Tiruttondattogai and other sacred texts, and they are revered as torchbearers of heartfelt devotion that helped popularize Shiva worship among ordinary people.