The correct option is 1 and 2 only
Explanation
The Bhakti movement in South India (roughly 6th to 9th centuries CE) was led by two distinct groups of saints: the Nayanars, who were devotees of Shiva, and the Alvars, who were devotees of Vishnu. These saints composed devotional hymns in Tamil.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Pair 1 is Correct: Manikkavasagar was a prominent Tamil poet-saint and a devotee of Shiva. He is counted among the four foremost Nayanars (Nalvar) and authored the Tiruvasagam.
- Pair 2 is Correct: Nammalvar is considered one of the greatest among the twelve Alvars (Vaishnavite saints). His hymns form a significant part of the Nalayira Divya Prabandham.
- Pair 3 is Incorrect: Periyalvar was a devotee of Vishnu and one of the twelve Alvars. He is also known as the father of Andal, the only female Alvar. He is not a Nayanar.
- Pair 4 is Incorrect: Sundarar (Sundaramurti) was a devotee of Shiva and is one of the most celebrated Nayanars. His hymns are collected in the Tevaram. He is not an Alvar.
Key Takeaway:
The Alvars (12 saints) were Vaishnavites (e.g., Nammalvar, Periyalvar, Andal), while the Nayanars (63 saints) were Shaivites (e.g., Appar, Sambandar, Sundarar, Manikkavasagar).