About Tamil Siddhars !

Tamil Siddhars' history.

Tamil Siddhars were ancient sages and mystics who lived in Tamil Nadu, a state in South India. They are believed to have attained supernatural powers through years of intense meditation, yoga, and other spiritual practices. The word Siddhar is derived from the Sanskrit word Siddhi, which means 'perfection' or 'attainment.' Siddhars were said to have achieved perfection in both physical and spiritual realms.

Historically, Siddhar also refers to the people who were early age wandering adepts that dominated ancient Tamil teaching and philosophy. Some Siddhars are iconoclastic rebels whose thoughts are against the organized settled beliefs among the people. They are knowledgeable in science, technology, astronomy, literature, fine arts, music, drama, dance, and provided solutions to common people in their illness and advice for their future. Some of their ideologies are considered to have originated during the First Sangam period.

Tamil Siddhars were believed to have lived during different periods, ranging from 3rd century BCE to the 18th century CE. Some of the well-known Siddhars include

Names of 18 Siddhars :

1) Nandhi Devar

2) Agastyar

3) Thirumoolar

4) Bogar

5) Konganar

6) Machamuni

7) Gorakkar

8) Sattamuni

9) Sundaranandhar

10) Ramadevar

11) Kudhambai

12) Karuvoorar

13) Edaikkadar

14) Kamalamuni

15) Padanjali

16) Dhanvanthri

17) Pambatti

18) Valmeegi

The teachings and writings of these Siddhars have been preserved in the form of poems, treatises, and other literary works.

The origins of Siddhar tradition in Tamil Nadu can be traced back to the Sangam period (3rd century BCE to 3rd century CE), a time when Tamil literature and culture flourished. The Siddhars were influenced by the ideas of Jainism, Buddhism, and Shaivism, and they developed a unique spiritual tradition that emphasized the importance of self-realization, liberation, and service to others.

The Siddhars believed that the human body is a microcosm of the universe, and that by mastering the inner energies, one could achieve enlightenment and supernatural powers. They developed a system of medicine called Siddha medicine, which is still practiced in Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India. Siddha medicine is based on the principles of Ayurveda, but it also incorporates elements of yoga, meditation, and other spiritual practices.

The Siddhars also developed a unique system of alchemy called Rasayana, which aimed at transmuting base metals into gold and attaining immortality. The Siddhars believed that by purifying the body and mind, one could transform oneself into a divine being and attain eternal life.

The Siddhar tradition in Tamil Nadu was not only spiritual but also social and political. The Siddhars were involved in the governance of the society, and they used their spiritual powers to alleviate the suffering of the people. They were also involved in the development of art, literature, and culture. Many of the famous Tamil literary works, such as Thirukkural and Kamba Ramayanam, were influenced by the Siddhar tradition.

The Siddhar tradition declined in Tamil Nadu during the medieval period due to various factors, including the Muslim invasions and the rise of Bhakti movement. However, the teachings and practices of the Siddhars continued to inspire many spiritual seekers in Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the Siddhar tradition in Tamil Nadu, and efforts are being made to preserve and promote the teachings and practices of the Siddhars. The Tamil Nadu government has established a separate department for Siddha medicine, and there are many Siddha hospitals and clinics across the state.

In conclusion,

Tamil Siddhars were ancient sages and mystics who developed a unique spiritual tradition in Tamil Nadu. They believed in the importance of self-realization, liberation, and service to others, and they developed a system of medicine and alchemy that is still practiced in South India. The Siddhar tradition declined during the medieval period, but it continues to inspire many spiritual seekers in Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India.