Ayyappan Thampuran

Ayyappan Thampuran – The Prince of Panthalam by Vishwanathan Kolazhi Vaidyanathan is a refreshing and worthy new addition to the growing body of work on Hinduism. Ayyappan is a must read for all Hindus interested to know the layers of this philosophy brought out brilliantly by Vishwanathan. He has used the life and legend of Swami Ayyappan to highlight philosophy that is Hinduism – selflessness, devotion to mother, triumph of good over evil, self-discipline and tolerance. At its core, Ayyappan is a unique take on the legend of Ayyappan. Over the last several decades the legend of Ayyappan has transcended geography, language and culture with millions of devotees making the pilgrimage to the Lord’s abode in Sabarimala. However, rarely has a treatise of this quality been written on the Lord. Drawing from his vast knowledge ofHindu philosophy, scriptures and his personal research on the subject, Vishwanathan has delivered a work that is rich in nuance and depth. Vishwanathan’s Ayyappan elevates the devotee’s experience of the Lord. Ayyappan is not only a compulsory read for every devotee of the Lord, but also an essential read for researchers and students interested in the philosophy of Hinduism.