Nayanmar Overview
| Nayanmar | Somasira Naayanaar |
|---|---|
| Birth Place | Thiru Ambar |
| Category | 63 Nayanmar (Saivite Saints) |
| Tradition | Saiva Siddhanta / Tamil Bhakti Movement |
History & Sacred Legend
Somasira Nayanar was a pious Brahmin who lived in Tiruvambur. Master of Vedic rituals and scriptures, he performed grand Somayagas purely as desireless offerings (Nishkama Karma) to Lord Siva, free from all selfish motives or expectations of fruit.
Rising completely above orthodox social hierarchies and prejudices of his era, Somasira Nayanar welcomed and served Siva Bhaktas of all communities with equal reverence, seeing the living presence of Lord Siva in every devotee.
Recognizing the supreme spiritual stature of Sundaramurthi Nayanar, he relocated to Tiruvarur and surrendered himself entirely to Sundarar's holy feet as his preceptor. Through pure Guru Bhakti and Nishkama service, he attained the supreme grace and eternal abode of Lord Siva.