Agathiyar (also spelled Agastya in Sanskrit) is a revered sage in Indian spiritual and literary traditions. He holds a significant place in both Hinduism and Tamil culture, and is considered one of the Saptarishis (seven great sages) in Vedic tradition. Below is a comprehensive overview of his life history based on mythology, scriptures, and Tamil lore:

Origin and Identity

• Name: Agathiyar (Tamil) / Agastya (Sanskrit)
• Parentage: According to Hindu mythology, Agastya was born from a clay pot (Kumbha), which is why he is also called Kumbhayoni. The pot was created by the gods Mitra and Varuna.
• Consort: Lopamudra – a learned and virtuous woman created from the most graceful parts of various creatures by Agastya himself (as per some legends).

Role in Vedic Tradition

• Agastya is credited with composing several hymns in the Rig Veda.
• He was a master of grammar, medicine (Ayurveda), and astrology, and contributed to the Agastya Samhita, an ancient Sanskrit text.
• He was also known for taming the Vindhya mountains, which had grown so tall they blocked the sun. He requested them to bow down to allow him to cross, and they remained bowed ever since.

Significance in Tamil Tradition

Agathiyar is considered the father of Tamil literature and grammar. According to Tamil tradition:

• He was sent by Lord Shiva to the south of India to spread knowledge and culture.
• He is said to have authored the Agathiyam, the earliest Tamil grammar text (now lost).
• Agathiyar presided over the first Tamil Sangam (literary academy) in Madurai, guiding poets and scholars.

Contributions to Siddha Medicine

• Agathiyar is a central figure in the Siddha tradition, a system of medicine and spiritual science unique to Tamil Nadu.
• He is believed to have written thousands of texts on medicine, yoga, alchemy, and mysticism.
• His disciples, such as Bogar, continued his teachings and contributed greatly to Siddha medicine.

Spiritual Significance

• Agathiyar is often depicted as a sage of deep wisdom and spiritual power, having the ability to control supernatural beings and even balance nature.
• He is worshipped in many temples across South India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Thailand.
• He is often invoked in rituals, mantras, and Siddha practices.

Popular Legends

• Agathiyar and Ravana: Agathiyar is said to have had interactions with Ravana, the king of Lanka, and guided him spiritually.
• Agathiyar and Lord Murugan: He is closely associated with Lord Murugan (Subrahmanya), especially in Tamil mythology.
• Visit to South India: His journey to the south is symbolic of the fusion of Vedic and Dravidian cultures.

Legacy

• Agathiyar is seen as a bridge between North and South India, between Sanskrit and Tamil, and between science and spirituality.
• He is honored in both Hindu temples and Siddha healing centers.
• His teachings are still influential in Tamil spiritual circles and among Siddhars (Tamil sages).