Sat Jan 25 05:00:00 IST 2025: ## Divine Origins and Unwavering Devotion: The Story of the First Three Azhvars
**CHENNAI, January 25, 2025** – A recent discourse by V.S. Karunakarachariar shed light on the miraculous origins and unwavering devotion of the first three Azhvars – Poigai, Bhootatazhvar, and Peyazhvar – key figures in South Indian Vaishnavism. These saints, unlike ordinary mortals, were not born of women but appeared divinely.
Poigai Azhvar manifested in Kancheepuram, Bhootatazhvar in Mamallapuram, and Peyazhvar in Mylapore, all during the Tamil month of Aippasi (mid-October to mid-November) under different constellations. Despite their diverse origins, their lives were united by a singular devotion to Lord Narayana.
The discourse explained the seemingly paradoxical name “Bhootatazhvar,” which literally means “existing one.” While “bhoota” might suggest a ghost, in this context it signifies the living presence of God in one’s life. Unlike those who live without spiritual awareness, Bhootatazhvar’s every thought was centered on the Lord.
These Azhvars embraced a life of itinerancy, foregoing material possessions and even a permanent home. Their sole focus was the worship of Vishnu, as evidenced by their travels across various temples. Their verses are considered the earliest compositions of the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of sacred hymns. A pivotal meeting in a small room, where the three Azhvars had a divine darshan (vision) of Lord Narayana, is believed to mark the very beginning of this significant collection. This event, according to the discourse, was clearly divinely orchestrated.
First Piper 