Music and the Divya Prabandham in the Srivaisnava Tradition

Abstract

This text explores the significant role of music in the Srivaisnava tradition, particularly its connection to the Divya Prabandham. It highlights how Nathamuni is said to have set the Divya Prabandham to music and choreographed the songs, establishing a tradition carried on by the araiyar community. The power of music to move even the Lord Vishnu is emphasized through anecdotes. The essay also discusses the decline of musical traditions in temples due to historical disruptions and the later revival of singing the Divya Prabandham in Carnatic music styles, both within temples and on secular stages. It concludes by examining the work of contemporary figures like Veenai Rangarajan and Sri Venkata Varadhan, who continue to contribute to this musical tradition.