Chapter#15: Madhurakavi Azhwar

Madhurakavi literally means "Poet of sweet words". Madhura Kavi Azhwar was born in Thirukkolur near Azhwar Thirunagari. The Perumal in this Divya Desam is called Vaitha Maanidhi. Madhura Kavi Azhwar learnt the Vedas and was well versed in both Tamil and Sanskrit. He composed poems in praise of Bhagavan Vishnu. At one stage in his life, he decided to abandon all the chains of samsara and strive towards moksham. In this pursuit he undertook a pilgrimage to the Vada naattu divya desams like Ayodhya, Mathura etc.

When Madhura Kavi Azhwar finished his prayers at Ayodhya, he noticed a glowing ball of fire in the sky. He could not understand the reason for this phenomenon. He also noticed that the ball of fire started to move southwards. He decided to follow the light, which ultimately led him to Azhwar Thirunagari and finally disappeared. Madhura Kavigal had already heard about a sixteen year old youth Nammalvar who had spent his life since birth under a tree without eating anything and emitting a divine glow. Madhura kavi azhwar proceeded straight to the and found Swami in a trance.

In order to test Nammazhwar, Madhura kavigal dropped a stone on hearing which Swami opened his eyes and smiled at Madhura Kavi aazhwar. Now Madhura Kavi aazhwar wanted to test Swami.

Seththathin vayitril siriyadu pirandaal Eththai thindru enge kidakkum?
(literal translation - If the small one is born inside the dead one, what will it eat and where will it lie?)

Swami Nammzhwar's reply was: Aththai thindru ange kidakkum
(literal translation - It will eat that and lie there)

Madhura kavi aazhwar instantly recognized the greatness of Swami Nammazhwar and fell at his feet and resolved to become Swami Nammazhwar's disciple. Madhura Kavi aazhwar remained with Swami Nammazhwar for the rest of Swami Nammazhwar's life.

Month: Chithirai
Nakshatram: Chithra
Sign: Garuda