Tiruppugazh is a form of devotional poetry in Tamil literature composed by the saint-poet Arunagirinathar (15th century). Tiruppugazh literally means "divine praise" or "glory to the Lord." Arunagirinathar composed these verses as a means of expressing his intense devotion to Lord Muruga (also known as Kartikeya or Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati. Tiruppugazh is highly revered in Tamil Nadu and has a significant presence in the bhakti tradition of South India.

Tiruppugazh encompasses a wide range of poetic forms, including songs, hymns, and stotras (praises). The compositions vary in length and style, catering to different preferences and occasions. The primary theme of Tiruppugazh is devotion to Lord Muruga. The verses extol Muruga's divine qualities, heroic exploits, and compassionate nature. They also express the poet's love, surrender, and longing for the Lord. They are often sung as bhajans or kirtans in a melodious and rhythmic manner. The verses are set to various traditional Tamil tunes and rhythms, enhancing their emotional impact and accessibility to a wide audience.

Tiruppugazh is revered not only for its literary and musical merits but also for its spiritual potency. It is believed that chanting or singing Tiruppugazh can confer blessings, heal ailments, and lead to spiritual upliftment. Despite its Tamil origins, Tiruppugazh has gained popularity beyond the boundaries of Tamil Nadu. Its universal themes of devotion, love, and spiritual aspiration resonate with people of all backgrounds and cultures.

Sangeet Samrat Chitravina N Ravikiran teaches the following tiruppuhazhs in this masterclass.

#6-  Muttaittaru – Shanmukhapriya – Mishra Chapu – Traditional tune
#1028 - Kadimodi -Shankarabharanam – 3+3+5+Tishra Roopakam - Tune: Kanchipuram Naina Pillai
#192 - Vachanamiga - Athana  - Ch Jhampa - Alathur Brothers
#228 - Padimadi - Pantuvarali - (Mishra Chapu)x3 + Roopakam - Tune: Chitravina N Ravikiran
#571 - Niramaya - Dhanyasi - Adi - Khanda Gati – Tune: Traditional
#165 - Tamarum amarum - Kalyani - Adi Tishra gati – Tune: Dandapani Deshikar
#201 - Ava maruvina - Jonpuri - 6 x (Khanda Chapu) + Roopakam - Tune by Shri Raghavan
#883 - Anjana velvizhi - Mohanam – Ch Jhampa – Tuned by Chitravina N Ravikiran
#90 - Mukilamenu - Desh - Roopakam x 6 + C Ekam - Tune: Chitravina N Ravikiran
#384 - Amutha muruso - Sindubhairavi - Adi - Tune: T N Rajaratnam Pillai

Lyrics can be found here.

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