Are there any references supporting that Mukundamala was composed by Kulashekara Azhwar?
Vidwan’s reply:
Our elders have said that Mukundamala was graced by Kulashekara Azhwar. No specific references exist. Our Acharya-s have concluded this from Mukundamala itself. At the very end it is mentioned “rAjA kulashEkarE”; hence it is certain that it is composed by Raja Kulashekara, no doubt about it. For a few who might doubt, there have been many kings who called Kulashekara Raja; in their respective lineage many are named Kulashekara. There could be doubts whether the Kulashekara Azhwar is one among them. As sentiment expressed in these shlokas is similar to the sentiments expressed by Azhwar, many reconcile that both must have been the same individual.
This is a query related to Emperuman-s who are in idol form at Divya Desam-s. Is it possible to publish as a list the respective Tirunakshtram-s of the Divya Desam Emperuman-s? It will be helpful to recite the relevant pasuram-s for the respective Divya Desam on those days.
Vidwan’s reply:
Each Divya Desam Emperuman’ incarnation is associated with a Tirunakshatram. They all can be gathered into a list for publication. It will take some time to do so.
Can a prapanna recite Gita Govindam of Jayadeva? Can ladies wear Thulasi garland as practiced by those associated with ISKCON and chant ‘Hare Krishan’ japam?
Vidwan’s reply:
A prapanna can certainly recite Jayadeva’s Gita Govindam. Can do japam of Hare Krishna mantra. But there are regulations that govern wearing of Thulasi garland and it is not a practice of our tradition. If Thulasi garland has been consecrated, ladies must not touch it. Men can wear it. There are restrictions as to when a Thulasi garland must not be worn. These days a few wear Thulasi garland that have not been consecrated. It is not a practice of our elders and hence we must follow the path shown by our elders.
