Which is a Major poetic anthology of Alvar Saints also known as Tamil Ved?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct answer to the question is Option 4: Nalayira Divyaprabandham. Here is a detailed explanation supporting this choice:

1. **Explanation for Option 4 (Nalayira Divyaprabandham):**
   - The Nalayira Divyaprabandham is a revered collection of 4,000 Tamil verses composed by the Alvar saints, who were devoted to the worship of Lord Vishnu. This anthology is often referred to as the "Tamil Ved" due to its significance and sacredness in Tamil Vaishnavism, akin to the Vedas in Sanskrit tradition. The Alvars were mystic saints whose devotional hymns played a crucial role in the Bhakti movement in South India. The Nalayira Divyaprabandham is considered a major poetic work because it encapsulates the spiritual and philosophical essence of the Alvars' devotion, making it a cornerstone of Tamil religious literature.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**

- **Option 1 (Tondaradippodi):**
     - Tondaradippodi is not a poetic anthology but rather the name of one of the twelve Alvar saints. He is known for his devotional hymns, particularly the "Tiruppalliyezhuchi" and "Tirumalai," which are part of the Nalayira Divyaprabandham. However, Tondaradippodi himself is not an anthology, and thus this option is incorrect.

- **Option 2 (Karaikkal Ammaiyar):**
     - Karaikkal Ammaiyar is one of the prominent female saints of the Tamil Saiva tradition, not associated with the Alvar saints or Vaishnavism. She is known for her devotion to Lord Shiva and her compositions in praise of him. Her works are not part of the Nalayira Divyaprabandham, making this option incorrect in the context of the question.

- **Option 3 (Tavram):**
     - The term "Tavram" does not correspond to any known major poetic anthology of the Alvar saints. It appears to be a misspelling or misinterpretation. Therefore, it does not relate to the Nalayira Divyaprabandham or the Tamil Ved, making this option incorrect.

In conclusion, Option 4, Nalayira Divyaprabandham, is the correct answer as it is the major poetic anthology of the Alvar saints, revered as the Tamil Ved. The other options do not fit the criteria of being a major poetic anthology associated with the Alvar saints.