Difference between Nayanars and Alvars lies in their religious affiliations within the Bhakti movement of South India. Nayanars, also known as Nayanmars, were devotees of Lord Shiva, composing devotional hymns and promoting Shaivism. Conversely, Alvars, or Azhwars, were devotees of Lord Vishnu, composing hymns praising Vaishnavism. While both groups played crucial roles in the spread of Bhakti ideology, their focus on different deities and theological doctrines delineates their distinct identities within the broader Bhakti tradition.

Difference between Nayanars and Alvars is one of the most important topics for UPSC IAS Examination. This will be very useful for aspirants in the UPSC Prelims Exam.

In this article on Difference between Alvars and Nayanars, we shall discuss who they were, what their ideologies were and the time-period in which they existed. 

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Difference between Nayanars and Alvars 

Following table covers the major differences between Alvars and Nayanars:

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Who were Nayanars?

Nayanars were devotees of Lord Shiva who were prominent during the Bhakti movement in South India. They composed devotional hymns in praise of Lord Shiva, emphasizing intense personal devotion and seeking union with him.

Who were Alvars?

Alvars were devotees of Lord Vishnu who were part of the Bhakti movement in South India. They composed devotional hymns glorifying Lord Vishnu and emphasized surrendering to him, experiencing divine love, and achieving salvation through devotion.

Read the article on Sufism in India!

Significance of Nayanars and Alvars

• The hymns composed by Nayanars and Alvars have been compiled in the Tamil works known as "Thevaram" and "Divya Prabandham" respectively. These works have played a crucial role in preserving and propagating the religious and cultural traditions of South India.
• The compositions of Nayanars and Alvars have had a significant impact on Tamil literature and music. They have inspired subsequent generations of poets, musicians, and scholars.
• Nayanars and Alvars played a pivotal role in popularizing the concept of Bhakti (devotion) as a means of attaining spiritual liberation. Their hymns and teachings have fostered a culture of deep devotion and love for the deities they worshipped.
• The Bhakti movements led by Nayanars and Alvars challenged social hierarchies. They emphasized the equality of all devotees irrespective of their social background or caste. They promoted a more inclusive and egalitarian society.
• The contributions of both Nayanars and Alvars have helped in fostering religious unity by emphasizing the underlying principles of devotion, love, and spirituality, transcending sectarian differences.

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