The ‘Sacred’ Hill in the Eyes of the Āḻvārs and the Śrīvaiṣṇava Commentators

Abstract

The article “The ‘Sacred’ Hill in the Eyes of the Āḻvārs and the Śrīvaiṣṇava Commentators” by Suganya Anandakichenin investigates South Indian engagements with Govardhana Hill through the lens of Śrīvaiṣṇava theology. By analyzing hymns of the Āḻvārs alongside commentarial works by Śrīvaiṣṇava theologians, the article uncovers interpretive layers that position Govardhana not merely as mythic geography but as a theologically charged site of divine intimacy. Anandakichenin explores how Govardhana is contextualized within arcāvatāra theology and devotional longing. The article draws thematic parallels between North Indian narratives and South Indian devotional poetics, illustrating how Govardhana is woven into the sacred geography of Vaiṣṇava vision. The synthesis of textual and devotional perspectives showcases the mountain’s theological and affective resonance across regions.