Difference between revisions of "Vidwan panduranganar"
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===Birth=== | ===Birth=== | ||
| − | The righteous poet was the second born son of Sri Arunathri Pillai and Smt Thayar Ammal in Tiruvannamalai, the city which represents one of the five elements of the Universe, i.e. the fire-element, and is glorified as the “Kailasa of the South”. Panduranganar was born as the precious child, as a result of his father’s penance and due to the Grace received from the Lord by bowing down at the feet of the Lord with his prayers. The respected A. Panduranganar (hereinafter mentioned as Ayyah) was born on 5th June 1916 corresponding to the 24th (Tuesday) of the auspicious Vedic month Vaikasi in the Vedic year bearing the name “Nala”. His elder sister is Smt. Aranganayaki. When Ayyah was one year old, his father attained the feet of the Lord. The responsibility of protecting the child fell on the shoulders of the mother and the elder sister. | + | The righteous poet was the second born son of Sri Arunathri Pillai and Smt Thayar Ammal in Tiruvannamalai, the city which represents one of the five elements of the Universe, i.e. the fire-element, and is glorified as the “Kailasa of the South”. Panduranganar was born as the precious child, as a result of his father’s penance and due to the Grace received from the Lord by bowing down at the feet of the Lord with his prayers. The respected A. Panduranganar (hereinafter mentioned as Ayyah) was born on 5th June 1916 corresponding to the 24th (Tuesday) of the auspicious Vedic month Vaikasi in the Vedic year bearing the name “Nala”. His elder sister is Smt. Aranganayaki. |
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| + | ===Childhood=== | ||
| + | When Ayyah was one year old, his father attained the feet of the Lord. The responsibility of protecting the child fell on the shoulders of the mother and the elder sister. | ||
Sri A.Panduranganar’s ancestors were responsible officers working for the Veera Vasanta Vaanaatharaaya Tirujnanasambandha Pandariyars, who were the Landlords of the place called Vettavalam. He had tremendous devotion to the Lord even as a child. Following the divine mandate of their family deity Arulmighu Poovaathaal in their dream, the ancestors relieved themselves from the responsibility of being attached to the landlords, came to Tiruvannamalai and settled in the Sannidhi street. | Sri A.Panduranganar’s ancestors were responsible officers working for the Veera Vasanta Vaanaatharaaya Tirujnanasambandha Pandariyars, who were the Landlords of the place called Vettavalam. He had tremendous devotion to the Lord even as a child. Following the divine mandate of their family deity Arulmighu Poovaathaal in their dream, the ancestors relieved themselves from the responsibility of being attached to the landlords, came to Tiruvannamalai and settled in the Sannidhi street. | ||
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When Ayyah's father was a six-month old child, his mother attained the Lord’s feet. His mother was from the wealthy and highly respected Arunachala Nayanar’s family in Keezharunai. So they took the mother-less grandchild and brought him up in their own family and married him to their family maiden Muthammal and kept them for several years in the joint family and later established the couple as a nuclear family. The game of fate started. Smt Muthammal reached the feet of The Lord. Having lost his wife, Arunathri apparently contemplated sanyas. It is nothing wrong that the God-loving family wanted to serve the God Himself. However, his relatives convinced him and re-married him to Thayar Ammal. Ayyah was born to this couple. | When Ayyah's father was a six-month old child, his mother attained the Lord’s feet. His mother was from the wealthy and highly respected Arunachala Nayanar’s family in Keezharunai. So they took the mother-less grandchild and brought him up in their own family and married him to their family maiden Muthammal and kept them for several years in the joint family and later established the couple as a nuclear family. The game of fate started. Smt Muthammal reached the feet of The Lord. Having lost his wife, Arunathri apparently contemplated sanyas. It is nothing wrong that the God-loving family wanted to serve the God Himself. However, his relatives convinced him and re-married him to Thayar Ammal. Ayyah was born to this couple. | ||
| − | + | When Ayyah was a one-year old child, his father attained the feet of The Lord. Therefore agriculture got interrupted. Income was insufficient. Everyday the loan amount increased. | |
| − | + | Srinivasavaradan recalls: “When he narrated this happening, immersed in the old memories, his eyes shed tears. Watching him I teared up too.” | |
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| − | + | ===Devotion to the Divine from young age=== | |
| − | + | Ayyah worshipped the Ganesha his father used to worship. He firmly held onto the Ganesha, offering puja three times a day, each time with naivedyam (food offering) as well. The first instance of naivedyam was raw rice while for the second and third instances, he served porridge on banana leaf. Srinivasavaradan shares, “When he narrated this, I remembered Arulmighu Kannappa Nayanar’s service, his devotion to the Lord, his wisdom, knowledge and potential.” | |
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| − | Srinivasavaradan shares, “When he narrated this, I remembered Arulmighu Kannappa Nayanar’s service, his devotion to the Lord, his wisdom, knowledge and potential.” | ||
When he was a child, he would pick up two stones and imagine one as Arulmighu Annamalayar and one as Arulmighu Unnamulai Ammal and offer abhishekam (sacred bath) to them and worship them. | When he was a child, he would pick up two stones and imagine one as Arulmighu Annamalayar and one as Arulmighu Unnamulai Ammal and offer abhishekam (sacred bath) to them and worship them. | ||
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From childhood he was with great enthusiastic devotion to the Lord, and lived with the complete trust that everything is the Lord’s doing. He lived swimming against all odds with just the support of the Lord’s Blessing and bearing the trust that he has a good future. His life is an example for all. | From childhood he was with great enthusiastic devotion to the Lord, and lived with the complete trust that everything is the Lord’s doing. He lived swimming against all odds with just the support of the Lord’s Blessing and bearing the trust that he has a good future. His life is an example for all. | ||
| + | ===Enduring hardships in receiving education=== | ||
After hard effort, Ayyah finished primary school and had to join high school. There was no free schooling at that time. One had to pay and get educated. With great effort Ayyah joined Tiruvannamalai’s Danish Mission High school. However, he suffered without having enough money for the fees, books and notebooks. When he was unable to pay the fees during certain months, he would be sent out of the classroom. He would feel pained that he was unable to continuously study in a good school in Tiruvannamalai. | After hard effort, Ayyah finished primary school and had to join high school. There was no free schooling at that time. One had to pay and get educated. With great effort Ayyah joined Tiruvannamalai’s Danish Mission High school. However, he suffered without having enough money for the fees, books and notebooks. When he was unable to pay the fees during certain months, he would be sent out of the classroom. He would feel pained that he was unable to continuously study in a good school in Tiruvannamalai. | ||
| − | Connected deeply to the Divine and the Lord’s word that he does not forsake anyone, he met the then Headmaster Sri Yesudoss and explained his circumstances. | + | Connected deeply to the Divine and the Lord’s word that he does not forsake anyone, he met the then Headmaster Sri Yesudoss and explained his circumstances. People would call the Headmaster as “Dharmadurai” meaning charitable person. He was a compassionate person especially to the poor. When Ayyah met him in person and explained his state, the Headmaster's eyes moistened with tears. He immediately called the class teacher and enquired about Ayyah. The class teacher praised Ayyah as a very good and quiet student. The headmaster immediately offered subsidy in the fees. Ayyah excelled and completed his High school education in 1936. |
| − | + | ===Mastering Tamil literature and grammar=== | |
| − | + | Ayyah's sister’s husband - respected Sri Muthusamy Nainar had in-depth knowledge in Tamil literature and grammar and he was adept in writing Tamil poems. Since Ayyah had an inclination to the Tamil language, he learnt Tamil grammar and literature from him. In accordance with Saint Tirumoolar’s words (below) he studied well: | |
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பின்னை நின்றென்னே பிறவி பெறுவது | பின்னை நின்றென்னே பிறவி பெறுவது | ||
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(Verse from the Tamil text Tirumandiram) | (Verse from the Tamil text Tirumandiram) | ||
| + | ===Studying Tirumurai and Shaiva Siddhanta=== | ||
Since Ayyah was filled with the Divine from young age and led his heart to receive the Lord’s Grace, he joined Suriya Narayanananda Chettiar’s Thevaram school to get trained in chanting the Tirumurai (Tamil compendium extolling the glory of Paramashiva). There he learnt Thevaram, Tiruvasagam (Collection of hymns in praise of Paramashiva) etc sincerely. He studied Tirumurai there for one and a half years. The fiddle Artist Sri Ramaligam Pillai who was a teacher of the Thevaram School during that period, taught him Shaiva Siddhanta ideology (Philosophy of Shaivism) from the base principles. | Since Ayyah was filled with the Divine from young age and led his heart to receive the Lord’s Grace, he joined Suriya Narayanananda Chettiar’s Thevaram school to get trained in chanting the Tirumurai (Tamil compendium extolling the glory of Paramashiva). There he learnt Thevaram, Tiruvasagam (Collection of hymns in praise of Paramashiva) etc sincerely. He studied Tirumurai there for one and a half years. The fiddle Artist Sri Ramaligam Pillai who was a teacher of the Thevaram School during that period, taught him Shaiva Siddhanta ideology (Philosophy of Shaivism) from the base principles. | ||
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Today, we see the singers who sung the Thevaram songs installed as sculptures in the front and rear faces of the Tirumanjana Gopuram (Arunachaleshwara temple’s South facing temple tower in Tiruvannamalai). In this, in the front face, Ayyah stands as the third figure at the bottom. | Today, we see the singers who sung the Thevaram songs installed as sculptures in the front and rear faces of the Tirumanjana Gopuram (Arunachaleshwara temple’s South facing temple tower in Tiruvannamalai). In this, in the front face, Ayyah stands as the third figure at the bottom. | ||
| + | ===A Divine Vision in the dream rids all monetary loans=== | ||
At this stage, Ayyah’s family situation was a little infirm. Money lenders gave much trouble to him and his family. Ayyah’s mental state was affected. He prayed to the Lord. One day a baby elephant appeared in his dream and placed its trunk on his shoulder and started talking through its divine mouth, “Don’t worry. I will take care of all that which needs to happen hereafter.” From that day onwards, people who gave him the loans did not say anything. Those who gave him money moved away. He sold some of his lands and repaid the loans. | At this stage, Ayyah’s family situation was a little infirm. Money lenders gave much trouble to him and his family. Ayyah’s mental state was affected. He prayed to the Lord. One day a baby elephant appeared in his dream and placed its trunk on his shoulder and started talking through its divine mouth, “Don’t worry. I will take care of all that which needs to happen hereafter.” From that day onwards, people who gave him the loans did not say anything. Those who gave him money moved away. He sold some of his lands and repaid the loans. | ||
| + | ===Earning the title "Vidwan" at a University=== | ||
As Ayyah was devoted to the Tamil language, and having completed his high school education, desired to go to Chidambaram, the place of Lord Thillai Nataraja (dancing form of Paramashiva) and earn the “Vidwan” (Scholar) title. He joined the Annamalai University. One had to study for four years there. But he did not have the money for it. So he took refuge with Lord (Paramashiva) who dances in Thillai Chidambaram. He prayed with a melting heart. As a result of that, Raja Sir Diwan Bahadur, Karaikudi Bahadur, Rao Bahadur, Chettinad King, the person who had established the University and who was praised as South India’s philanthropist, the one who protects the religious ethics and as the Father of the Tamil Musical Organisation, a great scholar and a respected person, created a fund just to financially support the students who study well. It was very difficult to get that scholarship. One needed the recommendations of influential people. As Ayyah had none to recommend him, he sought out and surrendered to the all encompassing Lord of Chidambaram known as Tiruchitrambalathan (Paramashiva). | As Ayyah was devoted to the Tamil language, and having completed his high school education, desired to go to Chidambaram, the place of Lord Thillai Nataraja (dancing form of Paramashiva) and earn the “Vidwan” (Scholar) title. He joined the Annamalai University. One had to study for four years there. But he did not have the money for it. So he took refuge with Lord (Paramashiva) who dances in Thillai Chidambaram. He prayed with a melting heart. As a result of that, Raja Sir Diwan Bahadur, Karaikudi Bahadur, Rao Bahadur, Chettinad King, the person who had established the University and who was praised as South India’s philanthropist, the one who protects the religious ethics and as the Father of the Tamil Musical Organisation, a great scholar and a respected person, created a fund just to financially support the students who study well. It was very difficult to get that scholarship. One needed the recommendations of influential people. As Ayyah had none to recommend him, he sought out and surrendered to the all encompassing Lord of Chidambaram known as Tiruchitrambalathan (Paramashiva). | ||
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(5th Tirumurai) | (5th Tirumurai) | ||
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On a holiday, Ayyah bathed in the river and after completing his daily spiritual routine, went to the Natarajar temple and sat in the 1000-pillared hall and wrote a request letter to the greatest scholar of the Tamil language, Pandithamani Kathiresan Chettiar. He detailed his current circumstances and requested to be given scholarship and support, and then he started circumambulating the Courtyard of Chidambaram Temple which represents the Space Element of the Universe and also called “Porsabhai”. He himself did not know how many times he circumambulated. Unable to take even a step more, he sat down and started requesting the Lord. In that request he prayed thus: “O Lord! One Who radiates the shining golden form! One Who dances in Chidambaram! One Who is the Chief poet of the Talai Sangam! The One Who gives life energy to the toad living inside the porous rock, to the ovaries growing as an offspring inside the mother’s womb, One who is pure, if You wish to grace this humble being to stay and learn for four years in your divine town, kindly grace me to receive the scholarship”. Then on Monday he went to the college and gave his request letter to the great scholar and personification of the Ocean of Tamil knowledge, Pandithamani Kathiresan Chettiar. | On a holiday, Ayyah bathed in the river and after completing his daily spiritual routine, went to the Natarajar temple and sat in the 1000-pillared hall and wrote a request letter to the greatest scholar of the Tamil language, Pandithamani Kathiresan Chettiar. He detailed his current circumstances and requested to be given scholarship and support, and then he started circumambulating the Courtyard of Chidambaram Temple which represents the Space Element of the Universe and also called “Porsabhai”. He himself did not know how many times he circumambulated. Unable to take even a step more, he sat down and started requesting the Lord. In that request he prayed thus: “O Lord! One Who radiates the shining golden form! One Who dances in Chidambaram! One Who is the Chief poet of the Talai Sangam! The One Who gives life energy to the toad living inside the porous rock, to the ovaries growing as an offspring inside the mother’s womb, One who is pure, if You wish to grace this humble being to stay and learn for four years in your divine town, kindly grace me to receive the scholarship”. Then on Monday he went to the college and gave his request letter to the great scholar and personification of the Ocean of Tamil knowledge, Pandithamani Kathiresan Chettiar. | ||
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(Tamilmarai - 717) | (Tamilmarai - 717) | ||
| − | Having been motivated with the desire that it is great only if one’s education is useful to others, Ayyah searched for a job and placed a request with the very school in which he studied. The then headmaster Devanesan called for Ayyah and looked at his appearance from top to bottom. He asked, “How will you fix the students who are senior and tall?” He asked this because Ayyah was a very petit person. Ayyah humbly and politely replied, “Give me an opportunity for a year. After that you may decide.” Hearing that, the headmaster appointed Ayyah in June 1942. Ayyah served excellently and was praised by all. Although he had a petite frame, he was like a knowledge bank and was praised by all as the great being who had come to protect the Tamil language. As an example of the saying “Modesty will bring undying fame”, he remained calm and did many good things. | + | ===An exemplary Tamil teacher and Proponent of Shaivism's base principles=== |
| − | + | Having been motivated with the desire that it is great only if one’s education is useful to others, Ayyah searched for a job and placed a request with the very school in which he studied. The then headmaster Devanesan called for Ayyah and looked at his appearance from top to bottom. He asked, “How will you fix the students who are senior and tall?” He asked this because Ayyah was a very petit person. Ayyah humbly and politely replied, “Give me an opportunity for a year. After that you may decide.” Hearing that, the headmaster appointed Ayyah in June 1942. Ayyah served excellently and was praised by all. Although he had a petite frame, he was like a knowledge bank and was praised by all as the great being who had come to protect the Tamil language. As an example of the saying “Modesty will bring undying fame”, he remained calm and did many good things. They would invite him even if it was a congregation for the Presentation of Christianity and request him to speak from Hindu philosophy. There is much evidence to show that he went and spoke at numerous such gatherings. | |
| − | They would invite him even if it was a congregation for the Presentation of Christianity and request him to speak from Hindu philosophy. There is much evidence to show that he went and spoke at numerous such gatherings. | ||
There would be a gathering of Nationals in a building belonging to the Danish Mission School on the seashore of Cuddalore. The Hon’ble head Sri Duraraij Peter took Ayyah along with him twice to address that gathering. | There would be a gathering of Nationals in a building belonging to the Danish Mission School on the seashore of Cuddalore. The Hon’ble head Sri Duraraij Peter took Ayyah along with him twice to address that gathering. | ||
| − | After a few years, Headmaster Sri Devanesan retired and Semmanachemmal Sri Soundarrajan became the Headmaster. He showered infinite love on Ayyah. | + | After a few years, Headmaster Sri Devanesan retired and Semmanachemmal Sri Soundarrajan became the Headmaster. He showered infinite love on Ayyah. |
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Ayyah would praise headmaster Soundarrajan a lot. He would say that headmaster Soundarajan’s father-in-law was a compassionate person and supported the poor a lot and the Headmaster who was brought up by him was a very good person. | Ayyah would praise headmaster Soundarrajan a lot. He would say that headmaster Soundarajan’s father-in-law was a compassionate person and supported the poor a lot and the Headmaster who was brought up by him was a very good person. | ||
| − | After him, Sri Isacs who | + | After him, Sri Isacs who possessed good administerial and teaching skills and who was also a good teacher, became the headmaster. He developed the school prosperously. He showed great love towards Ayyah. He said to Ayyah, “You take a 6-month paid holiday.” But Ayyah replied that he did not not wish to get the salary without working for it. The headmaster felt very happy hearing this. |
Ayyah was to retire on 5th of June 1974. But the headmaster, in order to glorify Ayyah’s service to the Tamil language still further, changed the school’s reopening date and gave him the opportunity to serve for one more year. | Ayyah was to retire on 5th of June 1974. But the headmaster, in order to glorify Ayyah’s service to the Tamil language still further, changed the school’s reopening date and gave him the opportunity to serve for one more year. | ||
| − | + | When headmaster Soundarrajan’s father-in-law passed away, he had a prayer gathering for the peaceful resting of the departed soul, and invited Ayyah to address the people in the prayer gathering. There, Ayyah pointed out that life is not certain and repeated the following verse: | |
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இருப்பது பொய் போவது மெய் என்றெண்ணி நெஞ்சே | இருப்பது பொய் போவது மெய் என்றெண்ணி நெஞ்சே | ||
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The people there made a note of this. Like this, Christian Heads invited Ayyah to many Christian gatherings to address the people. | The people there made a note of this. Like this, Christian Heads invited Ayyah to many Christian gatherings to address the people. | ||
| − | When one gets retired from the service, the question which everyone asks is, “What are you going to do hereafter?” When Ayyah was posed this same question, he said that there will be a divine mandate from Annamalayar. He | + | ===Formation of Tirumurai Kazhagam=== |
| + | When one gets retired from the service, the question which everyone asks is, “What are you going to do hereafter?” When Ayyah was posed this same question, he said that there will be a divine mandate from Annamalayar. He continued to serve as per Annamalayar’s divine mandate. At this juncture, Ponnusamy Adigal alias Pal Samiar went to Ayyah’s house and said, “I wish to conduct a three-month series of talks on Peria Puranam (sacred Tamil text extolling the glorious lives of the 63 enlightened devotees of Paramashiva called the Nayanmars). I need a person to function as Secretary and you are the appropriate person for it. I request you to accept this invitation.” Ayyah modestly repeated the below verse: | ||
அவையறிநது ஆராய்ந்து சொல்லுக சொல்லின் | அவையறிநது ஆராய்ந்து சொல்லுக சொல்லின் | ||
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As Muthukumaraswamy Mudaliar, the Godfather, expressed that the association should not disintegrate with this and should continue the service to The Lord, an association in the name “Tirumurai Kazhagam” was formed. Every full moon day, spiritual discourses started happening. Every Sunday, Uzhavarappani - social service - was undertaken. Religious books were published. Weekly worship started. | As Muthukumaraswamy Mudaliar, the Godfather, expressed that the association should not disintegrate with this and should continue the service to The Lord, an association in the name “Tirumurai Kazhagam” was formed. Every full moon day, spiritual discourses started happening. Every Sunday, Uzhavarappani - social service - was undertaken. Religious books were published. Weekly worship started. | ||
| + | ===A few enriching services of Tirumurai Kazhagam=== | ||
On behalf of Tirumurai Kazhagam, a particular service is being continued till date. And that particular service is described such: for thousands of years, the grand Kartikai Deepam festival (lighting of the huge lamp on top of the Tiruvannamalai Hill signifying the enlightenment of all) is celebrated in Tiruvannamalai. Of all the festivals celebrated in the country, this festival is the oldest one. People living in various directions throng Tiruvannamalai to watch and worship the lighting festival. | On behalf of Tirumurai Kazhagam, a particular service is being continued till date. And that particular service is described such: for thousands of years, the grand Kartikai Deepam festival (lighting of the huge lamp on top of the Tiruvannamalai Hill signifying the enlightenment of all) is celebrated in Tiruvannamalai. Of all the festivals celebrated in the country, this festival is the oldest one. People living in various directions throng Tiruvannamalai to watch and worship the lighting festival. | ||
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Therefore, on the 8th day of this Kartikai Deepam festival, under the leadership of Sri Muthukumaraswamy Mudaliar, abhishekam starts at 7 a.m. Breakfast is served to all at Sri Seshadri Swamigal’s ashram. At Adi Annamalai temple, lunch is provided. Devotees from several districts participate in this event that happens on the 8th day of the Kartikai Deepam festival. At 8 pm, the last abhishekam is offered to Lord Nandi in the Chakkarai teertham (sacred water body) and after this, Tirumurai verses are sung and with this the program concludes. Throughout the day, devotees joining the service will continuously chant the sacred 5-letter mantra “Om Namashivaya” and verses from the Tirumurai as they walk around the Hill. | Therefore, on the 8th day of this Kartikai Deepam festival, under the leadership of Sri Muthukumaraswamy Mudaliar, abhishekam starts at 7 a.m. Breakfast is served to all at Sri Seshadri Swamigal’s ashram. At Adi Annamalai temple, lunch is provided. Devotees from several districts participate in this event that happens on the 8th day of the Kartikai Deepam festival. At 8 pm, the last abhishekam is offered to Lord Nandi in the Chakkarai teertham (sacred water body) and after this, Tirumurai verses are sung and with this the program concludes. Throughout the day, devotees joining the service will continuously chant the sacred 5-letter mantra “Om Namashivaya” and verses from the Tirumurai as they walk around the Hill. | ||
| − | Nearly 700 devotees will participate in the event. At any given situation, you cannot find them either talking about their domestic stories or any other issue. This event is happening with the support of Sri Muthukumarasamy Mudaliar and the kind offerings of the devotees. Above all, may we never forget to praise and worship the Feet of Lord Annamalayar who was the source for the formation of the Tirumurai Kazhagam Association. Ayyah | + | Nearly 700 devotees will participate in the event. At any given situation, you cannot find them either talking about their domestic stories or any other issue. This event is happening with the support of Sri Muthukumarasamy Mudaliar and the kind offerings of the devotees. Above all, may we never forget to praise and worship the Feet of Lord Annamalayar who was the source for the formation of the Tirumurai Kazhagam Association. Ayyah remained an inspiration to this and functions as a Secretary. |
| − | After eight years, the association members felt that they can stop the continuous discourses and by using the money which is spent for this cause, other services can be improved. As a result, the number of free releases increased. A few years after the formation of Tirumurai Kazhagam, Poet Sri Ramalinganar and Poet Sambandanar got deeply involved in it. Due to their involvement, Tirumurai Kazhagam got a new life. With the help of Sri Sambandanar who although young in age was noble in heart, 51 free publications were released in 2005 | + | After eight years, the association members felt that they can stop the continuous discourses and by using the money which is spent for this cause, other services can be improved. As a result, the number of free releases increased. A few years after the formation of Tirumurai Kazhagam, Poet Sri Ramalinganar and Poet Sambandanar got deeply involved in it. Due to their involvement, Tirumurai Kazhagam got a new life. With the help of Sri Sambandanar who although young in age was noble in heart, 51 free publications were released in 2005. |
| − | + | For nearly 30 years, Ayyah resided in the Azhagananda Mutt situated in the West Street of Tiruvannamalai and rendering the service. All of Ayyah’s compilations are done from that Mutt only. | |
| − | For nearly 30 years, Ayyah | ||
| − | Ayyah lovingly | + | Ayyah lovingly taught those who sought him out to learn Tamil grammar and literature. Every day from 6 to 7:30 pm, he conducted group worship in the Mangayarkarasiyar Mandapam (Deepa mandapam) of the Arulmighu Annamalaiyar temple. Shaivites participated in this worship and got benefitted from it. Every Friday on behalf of the temple, he gathered scholars and made effort for delivering discourses. Every last Sunday of each month he conducted group worship and delivered a discourse at the Guhai Namashivayar cave temple. Almost for 19 years without fail he participated in the Tirukkural conference that happens every Sunday. |
| − | If Sri A.Panduranganar | + | ===Staying and serving at Sri Azhaganandar Mutt=== |
| + | If Sri A.Panduranganar finished his morning worship and went to the Azhaganandar Mutt in the street by the name Western Maada Veethi, until 5 pm he would be involved in the services such as writing, and discussing about the messages conveyed in the books with the followers who seek him out. His son Sri Ambalavanan will come and deliver his afternoon meal. For almost 27 years, he has been untiringly bringing him food. His son too is involved in service to The Lord. He too knows to sing the Tirumurai verses in the prescribed tune. Sri Ambalavanan’s wife Smt Mathiazhagi is also a person established in God-consciousness and involved in offering divine worship. She would cook the food conducive to Panduranganar’s health and send it through her husband Ambalavanan. Panduranganar’s grandson Sri Shivakumar and granddaughters Smt Uma Devi and Selvi Durga Devi will sometimes go and deliver food to him. All of them are to be appreciated. | ||
| − | + | 5th of June 2005, Ayyah turned 90. Upto this date, he has released 51 books. A few of these are his own contemplative works while some are compilations. The book “Arulneri Annamalai” is a book that he authored through his own contemplative thought currents, and also through traveling to other places, collecting information and structuring it into the book. A variety of information is included in this book. It took 5 years to compile this book. One can say that it is the amalgamation of his hard work, self-confidence and Annamalayar’s Grace - all three. These 51 books have been published in the name of Tirumurai Kazhagam. All of them were hand written by him and were given to the publisher for printing. | |
| − | 5th of June 2005, Ayyah turned 90. Upto this date, he has released 51 books. A few of these are his own contemplative works while some are compilations. The book “Arulneri Annamalai” is a book that he authored through his own contemplative thought currents, and also through traveling to other places, collecting information and structuring it into the book. A variety of information is included in this book. It took 5 years to compile this book. One can say that it is the amalgamation of his hard work, self-confidence and Annamalayar’s Grace - all three. These 51 books have been published in the name of Tirumurai Kazhagam. All of them were hand written by him and were given to the publisher for printing | ||
Srinivasa Varadan recalls, "I saw tears of happiness in his eyes when he said that all of this service was possible due to Arulmighu Annamalayar’s support through His formless state." | Srinivasa Varadan recalls, "I saw tears of happiness in his eyes when he said that all of this service was possible due to Arulmighu Annamalayar’s support through His formless state." | ||
===Photos=== | ===Photos=== | ||
| + | '''Photographs from the book by Srinivasavaradan | ||
| + | '''<gallery mode=packed-hover heights=300px widths=200px> | ||
| + | File:Pandruanganar with Jnanambal.jpg | ||
| + | Vidwan A. Panduranganar | ||
| + | Smt Pa. Jnanambal | ||
| + | File:Panduranganar with son.jpg | ||
| + | With Ayyah, his son P. Ambalavanan (B.Sc.) | ||
| + | |||
| + | File:Panduranganar worship room.jpg | ||
| + | The Nataraja and Ganesha deities worshipped by Ayyah | ||
| + | |||
| + | File:Panduranganar worshipped deities.jpg | ||
| + | Ayyah’s Puja (worship) room | ||
| + | </gallery> | ||
'''Portrait photographs | '''Portrait photographs | ||
Revision as of 08:44, 23 April 2021
| Panduranganar | |
| |
| Birth | 5 June 1916 |
| Death | 29 October 1998 |
| Location of Samadhi | n/a |
| Teaching | The Supreme Pontiff of Hinduism (SPH) mastered the Hindu Stream of Paramashiva's teachings known as Adi Shaivam and Shaiva Siddhantam under the renowned Tamil scholar Vidwan Sri Panduranganar in Tiruvannamalai, birthplace of The SPH. Sri Panduranganar was known for his extraordinary integrity and dedication to teaching Adi Shaivam and his highly austere and simple personal life. He walked by foot most of his life while spreading Shaivism. |
| Other Names | n/a |
| Place of Teaching | Tiruvannamalai,Tamil Nadu |
| Guru | 228th Pontiff of Kingdom of Thondaimandalam - Gurumahasannidhanam Sri La Sri Jnanaprakasha Desika Paramacharya Swamigal |
| Associated Kingdom | Kailasa Paramparagatha Adi Arunachala Sarvajnapeetha Samrajyam |
Introduction and brief
Vidwan Panduranganar was an exemplary acharya from the life of The Supreme Pontiff of Hinduism (SPH), who guided him from a young age in the study of Shiva Siddhanta (sacred Tamil text extolling the Principles and glory of Paramashiva). He was integral to the enlightenment eco-system of the place of the Advent of The Avatar, Tiruvannamalai. He was initiated by the 228th Gurumahasannidhanam (Pontiff) of the Thondaimandala Sarvajnapeetham (Hindu kingdom in the region of Kanchipuram in South India) and hailed from the same community as the Pontiff as well as The SPH - The Adi Shaiva Vellalar community, that breathed and worshipped Paramashiva most devoutly. Starting his career has an exemplary Tamil teacher, later on in his life Panduranganar established himself as a well-known scholar in the field of Shaivism who specialized in the history and significance of Tiruvannamalai and Arunachala. Not only a scholar but, as The SPH says, Panduranganar practised and lived Adi Shaivism with utmost integrity.
By the time he was 90, he had authored 90 books. His masterpiece offering to humanity is his book titled "Arulneri Annamalai" - after a scholarly and exhaustive study of the Arunachaleshwara temple of Tiruvannamalai temple. This book contains Vignettes of over 28 most celebrated saints who lived in the ecosystem of Tiruvannamalai including Arunagirinathar, Seshadri Swamigal and Ramana Maharishi who lived, moved and rested their mortal frame in jeeva samadhi at this place. It also contains the spiritual significance and essence of Tiruvannamalai, the Arunachaleshwara temple, its various festivals, Shaiva traditions and lifestyle and educative discoveries from the famous stone inscriptions of Tiruvannamalai. He established the "Tirumurai Kazhagam", an association to spread the teachings, lifestyle and glory of Paramashiva through the verses of "Tirumurai" - a sacred 12-volume compilation in Tamil from the 6th - 11th century. His entire life was the most humble dedication to the enrichment of humanity.
References
A brief mention of the books by Panduranganar is mentioned in this blog post on Tiruvannamalai http://drmshanmugam.blogspot.com/2011/07/mystic-mystery-of-arunachala-in.html?m=1
Panduranganar's Contribution in the life of The SPH
In early 1981, in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu, Yogiraj Yogananda Puri (The SPH's Yoga Guru) and Vidwan Panduranganar were guided by the 230th Guru Mahasannidhanam (Pontiff) of the Thondaimandala Aadheenam to Kanchi Paramacharya (the great enlightened Sage and spiritual head of the Kanchi Mutt in Kanchipuram, South India) to receive his blessings. At that time Kanchi Paramacharya instructed Yogananda Puri to start the Chaturmasya Vratam (four-month austere period observed by Hindu Saints, Seers and Sanyasis for rejuvenation of the entire ecosystem they are in) for the divine Incarnation of Paramashiva, The SPH, who was then just a three-year-old. Kanchi Paramacharya also gave the yoga danda (staff carried by Hindu monks) for the Supreme Pontiff of Hinduism to be initiated into Balasanyas (young monkhood) and start the Chaturmasya Vratam.
After the ritualistic ceremony which happened on 17 July 1981, the auspicious Guru Purnima festival of that year, when The SPH was initiated into Balasanyas, Panduranganar began the study of Adi Shaivam with The Avatar (The SPH). He taught Him the Tamil literatures of Thevaram, Tiruvasagam and Tiruvampavai. As he was also in the field of Vedic medicine and health, The SPH recognizes that it was Panduranganar who used to give instructions to Yogiraj Yogananda Puri and Mata Vibhutananda Puri as to the aushada (sacred energised herbs) which were needed to be administered to The SPH at a young age for nurturing the Consciousness.
A few references about Vidwan Panduranganar from The SPH's public discourses
- In this talk from 20 September, 2020 The SPH narrates the details of how the Chaturmasya Vratam was planned to be started in 1981 by Kanchi Paramacharya, 230th Gurumahasannidhanam of Thondaimandala Sarvajnapeetham in conjunction with Yogiraj Yogananda Puri, Mata Vibhutananda Puri and alongwith them Vidwan Panduranganar. https://nithyanandapedia.org/wiki/September_29_2019
- In the talk on 4 October 2019, The SPH speaks on how Ragupathi Yogi was given a slip of paper by Vidwan Panduranganar every day about the ingredients for the aushada that he needs to give the Supreme Pontiff of Hinduism and what time he would need to give it. https://nithyanandapedia.org/wiki/October_04_2019
- In the talk on the Superconscious Mutation Process for Celibacy which The SPH underwent at the age of around 13, The SPH recalls Vidwan Panduranganar as His Adi Shaivam Guru who lived and taught Adi Shaivism https://nithyanandapedia.org/wiki/September_05_2020
- In this talk from 17 January 2020, titled "Knowledge About The CosmosMakes Us Experience Oneness With The Cosmos", The SPH talks about a lawyer A. Thandavarayan in Tiruvannamalai who used to fund Vidwan Panduranganar when he would want to purchase books for the curriculum of The SPH https://nithyanandapedia.org/wiki/January_17_2020
- in this talk on 25 November 2019 titled "Embodied Consciousness", The SPH speaks on how Vidwan Panduranganar had taught Him the Agamas - sacred Text directly from Paramashiva https://nithyanandapedia.org/wiki/November_25_2019
- On the Nithyananda Purnima celebrations on 5 June 2020, The SPH speaks on how Mata Vibhutananda Puri used to ensure he learned Shaiva Siddhanta from Vidwan Panduranganar. https://nithyanandapedia.org/wiki/June_05_2020
- In the talk from 14 November 2019, "Create beautiful Kailaasa ecosystem around you" TheSPH recalls how Vidwan Panduranganar would insist that The SPH takes Haritaki powder and Castor Oil from the two grandmothers of Tiruvannamalai collectively nicknamed "Athai Kadai and Aayah Kadai" meaning "the shop of the aunt and grandma". He also mentions that He learnt the Tevaram, Tiruvasagam and Tiruvampavai from Vidwan Panduranganar. https://nithyanandapedia.org/wiki/November_14_2019
Life chronicle of Vidwan Panduranganar
Following is the life chronicle of Vidwan Panduranganar extracted from the book "Arulaalar Arunagirinathar thantha amutha thuligal" by M.Srinivasa Varadan, who heard the narrations directly from Vidwan:
Srinivasavaradan shares, "God guides us through many ways for the prosperity of this world and the well-being of humanity. But during our lifetime, whether we follow good ways and do good things, is a question mark. However, we prosper in our lives by following the guidance shown by a few of our noblemen. Learned noble men and Enlightened Masters have presented their lives to us in various documented forms and have also paved the way to follow them. Particularly because a few enlightened Masters conduct themselves in best ways, rain is showering duly in the world and the country is prospering. A thought appeared in my mind to serve the people by writing the life of the veteran poet and scholar Sri A. Panduranganar. I act with complete trust that the Graceful Lord Annamalayar will aid me and guide me in doing this. Graceful Lord Annamalayar bestowed on me the opportunity to closely interact with the person while penning the person’s biography. I convey my heartfelt gratitude to the respected and noble Vara. Dhanusu who conducts the annual Arunagirinathar festival for supporting me through various means in order to enable me to write the biography of that great Tamil scholar who always wears clean clothing and bears an equally pure heart, who speaks unhypocritical words and who possesses the capacity to speak the truth as it is. My heartfelt gratitude to the lovely souls who are part of the Arunagirinathar festival team."
Birth
The righteous poet was the second born son of Sri Arunathri Pillai and Smt Thayar Ammal in Tiruvannamalai, the city which represents one of the five elements of the Universe, i.e. the fire-element, and is glorified as the “Kailasa of the South”. Panduranganar was born as the precious child, as a result of his father’s penance and due to the Grace received from the Lord by bowing down at the feet of the Lord with his prayers. The respected A. Panduranganar (hereinafter mentioned as Ayyah) was born on 5th June 1916 corresponding to the 24th (Tuesday) of the auspicious Vedic month Vaikasi in the Vedic year bearing the name “Nala”. His elder sister is Smt. Aranganayaki.
Childhood
When Ayyah was one year old, his father attained the feet of the Lord. The responsibility of protecting the child fell on the shoulders of the mother and the elder sister.
Sri A.Panduranganar’s ancestors were responsible officers working for the Veera Vasanta Vaanaatharaaya Tirujnanasambandha Pandariyars, who were the Landlords of the place called Vettavalam. He had tremendous devotion to the Lord even as a child. Following the divine mandate of their family deity Arulmighu Poovaathaal in their dream, the ancestors relieved themselves from the responsibility of being attached to the landlords, came to Tiruvannamalai and settled in the Sannidhi street.
When Ayyah's father was a six-month old child, his mother attained the Lord’s feet. His mother was from the wealthy and highly respected Arunachala Nayanar’s family in Keezharunai. So they took the mother-less grandchild and brought him up in their own family and married him to their family maiden Muthammal and kept them for several years in the joint family and later established the couple as a nuclear family. The game of fate started. Smt Muthammal reached the feet of The Lord. Having lost his wife, Arunathri apparently contemplated sanyas. It is nothing wrong that the God-loving family wanted to serve the God Himself. However, his relatives convinced him and re-married him to Thayar Ammal. Ayyah was born to this couple.
When Ayyah was a one-year old child, his father attained the feet of The Lord. Therefore agriculture got interrupted. Income was insufficient. Everyday the loan amount increased. Srinivasavaradan recalls: “When he narrated this happening, immersed in the old memories, his eyes shed tears. Watching him I teared up too.”
Devotion to the Divine from young age
Ayyah worshipped the Ganesha his father used to worship. He firmly held onto the Ganesha, offering puja three times a day, each time with naivedyam (food offering) as well. The first instance of naivedyam was raw rice while for the second and third instances, he served porridge on banana leaf. Srinivasavaradan shares, “When he narrated this, I remembered Arulmighu Kannappa Nayanar’s service, his devotion to the Lord, his wisdom, knowledge and potential.”
When he was a child, he would pick up two stones and imagine one as Arulmighu Annamalayar and one as Arulmighu Unnamulai Ammal and offer abhishekam (sacred bath) to them and worship them.
From childhood he was with great enthusiastic devotion to the Lord, and lived with the complete trust that everything is the Lord’s doing. He lived swimming against all odds with just the support of the Lord’s Blessing and bearing the trust that he has a good future. His life is an example for all.
Enduring hardships in receiving education
After hard effort, Ayyah finished primary school and had to join high school. There was no free schooling at that time. One had to pay and get educated. With great effort Ayyah joined Tiruvannamalai’s Danish Mission High school. However, he suffered without having enough money for the fees, books and notebooks. When he was unable to pay the fees during certain months, he would be sent out of the classroom. He would feel pained that he was unable to continuously study in a good school in Tiruvannamalai.
Connected deeply to the Divine and the Lord’s word that he does not forsake anyone, he met the then Headmaster Sri Yesudoss and explained his circumstances. People would call the Headmaster as “Dharmadurai” meaning charitable person. He was a compassionate person especially to the poor. When Ayyah met him in person and explained his state, the Headmaster's eyes moistened with tears. He immediately called the class teacher and enquired about Ayyah. The class teacher praised Ayyah as a very good and quiet student. The headmaster immediately offered subsidy in the fees. Ayyah excelled and completed his High school education in 1936.
Mastering Tamil literature and grammar
Ayyah's sister’s husband - respected Sri Muthusamy Nainar had in-depth knowledge in Tamil literature and grammar and he was adept in writing Tamil poems. Since Ayyah had an inclination to the Tamil language, he learnt Tamil grammar and literature from him. In accordance with Saint Tirumoolar’s words (below) he studied well:
பின்னை நின்றென்னே பிறவி பெறுவது முன்னை நன்றாக முயல்தவம் செய்திலர் என்னை நன்றாக இறைவன் படைத்தனன் தன்னை நன்றாகத் தமிழ் செய்யுமாறே.
Transliteration Pinnai nindrenne piravi peruvathu munnai nandraaga muyalthavam seithilar Yennai nandraaga iraivan padaithanan Thannai nandraaga tamizh seiyyumaare
Translation: There is no point in cribbing about the deficiencies one got in this birth One who does good austerity gets a good birth Rather than lamenting about the fortune, one has to try as much as one can in the circumstances and worship God That would lead to great births and finally when fully mature, to the Bliss of Lord Shiva. (Verse from the Tamil text Tirumandiram)
Studying Tirumurai and Shaiva Siddhanta
Since Ayyah was filled with the Divine from young age and led his heart to receive the Lord’s Grace, he joined Suriya Narayanananda Chettiar’s Thevaram school to get trained in chanting the Tirumurai (Tamil compendium extolling the glory of Paramashiva). There he learnt Thevaram, Tiruvasagam (Collection of hymns in praise of Paramashiva) etc sincerely. He studied Tirumurai there for one and a half years. The fiddle Artist Sri Ramaligam Pillai who was a teacher of the Thevaram School during that period, taught him Shaiva Siddhanta ideology (Philosophy of Shaivism) from the base principles.
Today, we see the singers who sung the Thevaram songs installed as sculptures in the front and rear faces of the Tirumanjana Gopuram (Arunachaleshwara temple’s South facing temple tower in Tiruvannamalai). In this, in the front face, Ayyah stands as the third figure at the bottom.
A Divine Vision in the dream rids all monetary loans
At this stage, Ayyah’s family situation was a little infirm. Money lenders gave much trouble to him and his family. Ayyah’s mental state was affected. He prayed to the Lord. One day a baby elephant appeared in his dream and placed its trunk on his shoulder and started talking through its divine mouth, “Don’t worry. I will take care of all that which needs to happen hereafter.” From that day onwards, people who gave him the loans did not say anything. Those who gave him money moved away. He sold some of his lands and repaid the loans.
Earning the title "Vidwan" at a University
As Ayyah was devoted to the Tamil language, and having completed his high school education, desired to go to Chidambaram, the place of Lord Thillai Nataraja (dancing form of Paramashiva) and earn the “Vidwan” (Scholar) title. He joined the Annamalai University. One had to study for four years there. But he did not have the money for it. So he took refuge with Lord (Paramashiva) who dances in Thillai Chidambaram. He prayed with a melting heart. As a result of that, Raja Sir Diwan Bahadur, Karaikudi Bahadur, Rao Bahadur, Chettinad King, the person who had established the University and who was praised as South India’s philanthropist, the one who protects the religious ethics and as the Father of the Tamil Musical Organisation, a great scholar and a respected person, created a fund just to financially support the students who study well. It was very difficult to get that scholarship. One needed the recommendations of influential people. As Ayyah had none to recommend him, he sought out and surrendered to the all encompassing Lord of Chidambaram known as Tiruchitrambalathan (Paramashiva).
அன்னம் பாலிக்கும் தில்லைச் சிற்றம்பலம் பொன்னம் பாலிக்கும் மேலுமிப் பூ மிசை என் அம்பு ஆலிக்குமாறு கண்டின்புற இன்னம் பாலிக்குமோ இப்பிறவியே.
Transliteration annam paalikkum thillai chitrambalam ponnam paalikkum melumi boo misai en ambu aalikkumaaru kandinbura innam paalikkumo ippiraviye
Translation: Darshan of the Dancing Lord at Thillai Thiruchitrambalam not only provides a great life after life on this earth, right here see how delightful this sight of this Blissful Lord! If it could be spent in rejoicing this Lord, can this life last forever? (5th Tirumurai)
On a holiday, Ayyah bathed in the river and after completing his daily spiritual routine, went to the Natarajar temple and sat in the 1000-pillared hall and wrote a request letter to the greatest scholar of the Tamil language, Pandithamani Kathiresan Chettiar. He detailed his current circumstances and requested to be given scholarship and support, and then he started circumambulating the Courtyard of Chidambaram Temple which represents the Space Element of the Universe and also called “Porsabhai”. He himself did not know how many times he circumambulated. Unable to take even a step more, he sat down and started requesting the Lord. In that request he prayed thus: “O Lord! One Who radiates the shining golden form! One Who dances in Chidambaram! One Who is the Chief poet of the Talai Sangam! The One Who gives life energy to the toad living inside the porous rock, to the ovaries growing as an offspring inside the mother’s womb, One who is pure, if You wish to grace this humble being to stay and learn for four years in your divine town, kindly grace me to receive the scholarship”. Then on Monday he went to the college and gave his request letter to the great scholar and personification of the Ocean of Tamil knowledge, Pandithamani Kathiresan Chettiar.
On seeing the request letter, Kathiresan Chettiar’s heart melted and he comforted him saying, “You will definitely get a scholarship. Don't worry, study well.” In that college, only those students who qualify in the grammar examination that was held within three months from the date of their admission, would receive scholarship. But Ayyah got it immediately. With God’s grace he studied four years (from 1938 to 1941) through the scholarship and successfully completed the education and earned the title “Vidwan” (Scholar) and returned to Tiruvannamalai.
கற்றறிந்தார் கல்வி விளங்கும் கசடறச் சொல்தெரிதல் வல்லார் அகத்து.
Transliteration katrarindhaar kalvi vilangum kasatara soltheridhal vallaar agaththu
Translation: The learning of those who have read and understood (much) will shine in the assembly of those who faultlessly examine (the nature of) words. (Tamilmarai - 717)
An exemplary Tamil teacher and Proponent of Shaivism's base principles
Having been motivated with the desire that it is great only if one’s education is useful to others, Ayyah searched for a job and placed a request with the very school in which he studied. The then headmaster Devanesan called for Ayyah and looked at his appearance from top to bottom. He asked, “How will you fix the students who are senior and tall?” He asked this because Ayyah was a very petit person. Ayyah humbly and politely replied, “Give me an opportunity for a year. After that you may decide.” Hearing that, the headmaster appointed Ayyah in June 1942. Ayyah served excellently and was praised by all. Although he had a petite frame, he was like a knowledge bank and was praised by all as the great being who had come to protect the Tamil language. As an example of the saying “Modesty will bring undying fame”, he remained calm and did many good things. They would invite him even if it was a congregation for the Presentation of Christianity and request him to speak from Hindu philosophy. There is much evidence to show that he went and spoke at numerous such gatherings.
There would be a gathering of Nationals in a building belonging to the Danish Mission School on the seashore of Cuddalore. The Hon’ble head Sri Duraraij Peter took Ayyah along with him twice to address that gathering.
After a few years, Headmaster Sri Devanesan retired and Semmanachemmal Sri Soundarrajan became the Headmaster. He showered infinite love on Ayyah.
Ayyah would praise headmaster Soundarrajan a lot. He would say that headmaster Soundarajan’s father-in-law was a compassionate person and supported the poor a lot and the Headmaster who was brought up by him was a very good person.
After him, Sri Isacs who possessed good administerial and teaching skills and who was also a good teacher, became the headmaster. He developed the school prosperously. He showed great love towards Ayyah. He said to Ayyah, “You take a 6-month paid holiday.” But Ayyah replied that he did not not wish to get the salary without working for it. The headmaster felt very happy hearing this.
Ayyah was to retire on 5th of June 1974. But the headmaster, in order to glorify Ayyah’s service to the Tamil language still further, changed the school’s reopening date and gave him the opportunity to serve for one more year.
When headmaster Soundarrajan’s father-in-law passed away, he had a prayer gathering for the peaceful resting of the departed soul, and invited Ayyah to address the people in the prayer gathering. There, Ayyah pointed out that life is not certain and repeated the following verse:
இருப்பது பொய் போவது மெய் என்றெண்ணி நெஞ்சே ஒருத்தருக்கும் தீங்கினையுன் னாதே - பருத்ததொந்தி நம்மது என்று நாம் இருப்ப நாய்நரிகள் பேய் கழுகு தம்மது என்று தாம் இருக்கும் தான்
Transliteration Iruppathu poi povathu mei yendrenni nenje Orutharukkum theenginai unnaathe - paruththonthi Nammathu yendru naam iruppa naainarigal paei kalugu Thammathu yendru thaam irukkum thaan
Translation: To remain here is a lie. To depart to another world is the Truth. Not worldly life but life after death is the True Life. Remembering this Truth Oh mind! Do not think ill for others. You remain thinking that your fat belly is yours, whereas the wolf, fox, ghost and eagle remain thinking that it is theirs.
The people there made a note of this. Like this, Christian Heads invited Ayyah to many Christian gatherings to address the people.
Formation of Tirumurai Kazhagam
When one gets retired from the service, the question which everyone asks is, “What are you going to do hereafter?” When Ayyah was posed this same question, he said that there will be a divine mandate from Annamalayar. He continued to serve as per Annamalayar’s divine mandate. At this juncture, Ponnusamy Adigal alias Pal Samiar went to Ayyah’s house and said, “I wish to conduct a three-month series of talks on Peria Puranam (sacred Tamil text extolling the glorious lives of the 63 enlightened devotees of Paramashiva called the Nayanmars). I need a person to function as Secretary and you are the appropriate person for it. I request you to accept this invitation.” Ayyah modestly repeated the below verse:
அவையறிநது ஆராய்ந்து சொல்லுக சொல்லின் தொகையறிந்த தூய்மை யவர்.
Avaiyarinadhu aaraaindhu solluga sollin Thogaiyarindha thooimai yavar
Translation: Let the pure who know the arrangement of words speak with deliberation after ascertaining (the nature of) the court (then assembled). (Tirumurai - 711)
And replied that he does not have that much potential. But Adigalar left and printed nearly 2000 copies of the invitation for a 80-day series of talks on Peria Puranam and reached them to Ayyah’s house. Ayyah thought that this too is Annamalayar’s Grace and functioned as Secretary. The discourse series happened successfully.
Page 36 As it was intended by the Lord’s Grace to form a team and render continuous service, he thought that a God-fearing head is required for it. He was reminded about Sri R.Muthukumaraswamy Mudaliar who hailed from a good family and who was always immersed in God-consciousness and associated with temples and temple service. His grandfather Sri Arunagiri Mudaliar was the temple trustee. So he approached him and requested him to be the head of the association and conduct all the programmes. He replied, “I will ponder over it and only then I will let you know; come after three days!” When he went again, he gave his consent. The intention was fulfilled. The 63 Nayanmars’ function and annadan (serving free food) happened.
As Muthukumaraswamy Mudaliar, the Godfather, expressed that the association should not disintegrate with this and should continue the service to The Lord, an association in the name “Tirumurai Kazhagam” was formed. Every full moon day, spiritual discourses started happening. Every Sunday, Uzhavarappani - social service - was undertaken. Religious books were published. Weekly worship started.
A few enriching services of Tirumurai Kazhagam
On behalf of Tirumurai Kazhagam, a particular service is being continued till date. And that particular service is described such: for thousands of years, the grand Kartikai Deepam festival (lighting of the huge lamp on top of the Tiruvannamalai Hill signifying the enlightenment of all) is celebrated in Tiruvannamalai. Of all the festivals celebrated in the country, this festival is the oldest one. People living in various directions throng Tiruvannamalai to watch and worship the lighting festival.
The Tirumurai Kazhagam members wished that during this festival, if they undertake offering abhishekam and arati for all the eight Shivalingas and eight Nandis in the mountain path surrounding the sacred Arunachala Hill, it would be an opportunity for the local people of Tiruvannamalai and outsiders who gather for the festival, to witness and offer their worship. Stone inscriptions reveal that the name of the mountain path is “Vikrama Pandian Thiruveethi”.
Therefore, on the 8th day of this Kartikai Deepam festival, under the leadership of Sri Muthukumaraswamy Mudaliar, abhishekam starts at 7 a.m. Breakfast is served to all at Sri Seshadri Swamigal’s ashram. At Adi Annamalai temple, lunch is provided. Devotees from several districts participate in this event that happens on the 8th day of the Kartikai Deepam festival. At 8 pm, the last abhishekam is offered to Lord Nandi in the Chakkarai teertham (sacred water body) and after this, Tirumurai verses are sung and with this the program concludes. Throughout the day, devotees joining the service will continuously chant the sacred 5-letter mantra “Om Namashivaya” and verses from the Tirumurai as they walk around the Hill.
Nearly 700 devotees will participate in the event. At any given situation, you cannot find them either talking about their domestic stories or any other issue. This event is happening with the support of Sri Muthukumarasamy Mudaliar and the kind offerings of the devotees. Above all, may we never forget to praise and worship the Feet of Lord Annamalayar who was the source for the formation of the Tirumurai Kazhagam Association. Ayyah remained an inspiration to this and functions as a Secretary.
After eight years, the association members felt that they can stop the continuous discourses and by using the money which is spent for this cause, other services can be improved. As a result, the number of free releases increased. A few years after the formation of Tirumurai Kazhagam, Poet Sri Ramalinganar and Poet Sambandanar got deeply involved in it. Due to their involvement, Tirumurai Kazhagam got a new life. With the help of Sri Sambandanar who although young in age was noble in heart, 51 free publications were released in 2005.
For nearly 30 years, Ayyah resided in the Azhagananda Mutt situated in the West Street of Tiruvannamalai and rendering the service. All of Ayyah’s compilations are done from that Mutt only.
Ayyah lovingly taught those who sought him out to learn Tamil grammar and literature. Every day from 6 to 7:30 pm, he conducted group worship in the Mangayarkarasiyar Mandapam (Deepa mandapam) of the Arulmighu Annamalaiyar temple. Shaivites participated in this worship and got benefitted from it. Every Friday on behalf of the temple, he gathered scholars and made effort for delivering discourses. Every last Sunday of each month he conducted group worship and delivered a discourse at the Guhai Namashivayar cave temple. Almost for 19 years without fail he participated in the Tirukkural conference that happens every Sunday.
Staying and serving at Sri Azhaganandar Mutt
If Sri A.Panduranganar finished his morning worship and went to the Azhaganandar Mutt in the street by the name Western Maada Veethi, until 5 pm he would be involved in the services such as writing, and discussing about the messages conveyed in the books with the followers who seek him out. His son Sri Ambalavanan will come and deliver his afternoon meal. For almost 27 years, he has been untiringly bringing him food. His son too is involved in service to The Lord. He too knows to sing the Tirumurai verses in the prescribed tune. Sri Ambalavanan’s wife Smt Mathiazhagi is also a person established in God-consciousness and involved in offering divine worship. She would cook the food conducive to Panduranganar’s health and send it through her husband Ambalavanan. Panduranganar’s grandson Sri Shivakumar and granddaughters Smt Uma Devi and Selvi Durga Devi will sometimes go and deliver food to him. All of them are to be appreciated.
5th of June 2005, Ayyah turned 90. Upto this date, he has released 51 books. A few of these are his own contemplative works while some are compilations. The book “Arulneri Annamalai” is a book that he authored through his own contemplative thought currents, and also through traveling to other places, collecting information and structuring it into the book. A variety of information is included in this book. It took 5 years to compile this book. One can say that it is the amalgamation of his hard work, self-confidence and Annamalayar’s Grace - all three. These 51 books have been published in the name of Tirumurai Kazhagam. All of them were hand written by him and were given to the publisher for printing.
Srinivasa Varadan recalls, "I saw tears of happiness in his eyes when he said that all of this service was possible due to Arulmighu Annamalayar’s support through His formless state."
Photos
Photographs from the book by Srinivasavaradan
- Vidwan A. Panduranganar
- Smt Pa. Jnanambal
- With Ayyah, his son P. Ambalavanan (B.Sc.)
- The Nataraja and Ganesha deities worshipped by Ayyah
- Ayyah’s Puja (worship) room
Portrait photographs
Photographs taken on various occasions in the life and service of Vidwan Panduranganar
Photographs taken on the occasion of the 80th birthday celebrations (5 June 2006)
Vidwan Panduranganar's house (Address: No. 29/15, Sellaneri Street, Keezhnathur, Tiruvannamalai - 606601) where he lived until the last two years of life (until 2007)
Puja (worship) room, where Vidwan Panduranganar offered worship, the last two years of his life (2008 and 2009)
Tamil Books authored by Vidwan Panduranganar
Books published on the life and service of Vidwan Panduranganar
Awards and Titles
Items used by Vidwan Panduranganar
Inviting one and all to the last set of rituals (30 Sep 2009) related to Vidwan Panduranganar leaving the body
