Kirupanandha Variyar: The Pinnacle of Devotion and Discourse
In the spiritual history of Tamil Nadu, the name of Thirumuruga Kirupanandha Variyar, affectionately known as ‘Variyar Swamigal,’ is deeply etched and omnipresent. He holds the great distinction of spreading the glory of Lord Murugan to all corners of the world.
Birth and Early Life
- Variyar Swamigal was born on August 25, 1906, in Kangeyanallur, near Katpadi in the Vellore district.
- His father, Mallayadasa Bhagavathar, was a great devotee of Lord Shiva and a renowned discourse artist.
- His mother was Madhuramadhi Ammal.
- Variyar was the fourth of 11 children born to them.
- His parents named him “Kirupanandavari“.
Education and Musical Knowledge
- Rather than formal schooling, he studied Tamil literature and the Puranas directly under his father.
- He learned the Veena at a very young age.
- Having memorized approximately 10,000 Thiruppugazh songs, he possessed a unique blend of Tamil scholarship and musical expertise.
- Notably, he gained the ability to compose poetry by the age of 12.
Mastery of Discourse (Kathakalakshepam)
- Variyar Swamigal’s discourses were not merely spiritual talks; they were an art form.
- His uniqueness lay in telling stories in a simple style filled with humor so that even common people could understand.
- He simplified complex Vedantic truths through short, relatable stories.
- People flocked in large numbers to witness his “Saraswati Kataksham” (blessed eloquence).
- When he rhythmically tapped his hand cymbals (Thalam), the entire gathering would be immersed in devotion to Lord Murugan.
Spiritual Service and Renovations
He was not just a speaker but a man of action who worked tirelessly to renovate many dilapidated temples in Tamil Nadu.
- Kangeyanallur Murugan Temple: He renovated this temple in his hometown and built majestic towers (Gopurams) at a great cost.
- Helping the Needy: He provided significant financial assistance to charitable institutions and orphanages.
- Monthly Magazine: He started the spiritual magazine ‘Kugapriya’ to propagate the philosophy of Lord Murugan.
Honors and Awards
Recognizing his service to Tamil and spirituality, various organizations conferred many titles upon him:
- Arulmozhi Arasu: Conferred by the Thiruppanandal Mutt.
- Isai Perarasu: An honor bestowed by the Government of Tamil Nadu.
- Thiruppugazh Jyothi: A title honoring his profound knowledge of the Thiruppugazh.
Golden Quotes of Variyar Swamigal
“Look in the mirror when you are angry; you will feel ashamed of your own face and immediately become calm.”
“A person who has no desire for ‘this’ or ‘that’ will have no mental worries at all.”
“Develop the habit of reading good books daily; this practice helps in straightening a crooked mind.”
“If you wish to progress on the divine path, the discipline of conduct is absolutely essential.”
“Speak as sweetly as a parrot, contemplate God with the single-mindedness of a crane, chew your food well like a goat, bathe like an elephant, act with the gratitude of a dog, be as observant as a crow, and work like the honeybees. If you do this, life will be as sweet as heaven.”
The Final Journey
Variyar Swamigal lived for about 87 years and reached the feet of the Lord on November 7, 1993, while on a flight returning to Chennai from London. Though his physical body is gone, his discourses and books continue to resonate in the homes and hearts of devotees today.
The life of Variyar Swamigal taught the world that “Devotion is not just in worship, but must be infused in Tamil, music, and service.” Born through the ‘Grace’ (Kirupai) of Lord Murugan, he remains a fragrant ‘Ocean’ (Vari) of devotion in the spiritual world.
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Vanakkam! I'm Uma, currently living in Chennai. I hold a Master’s degree in Chemistry (M.Sc.), but my true passion lies in spirituality and the rich cultural heritage of Tamil traditions.
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