The work, an important liturgical compilation of the Tamil Alvars who lived between 5th and 8th Century CE,[2] marks the beginning of the canonisation of 12 Vaishnava poet saints, and these hymns are still sung extensively today.

[4] In many temples — Srirangam, for example — the chanting of the Divya Prabandham forms a major part of the daily service.

[4] The compendium begins with the Tirupallantu, a benedictory hymn written by Periyalvar, wishing long life to Vishnu.

[9] The hymns or songs sung by the Alvars dedicated to Vishnu are specifically designated the term pasuram in Tamil.

But as the song mentioned the name and place of the Alvar (Kurugoor Satakopan), Nathamuni proceeded to Thirukurugoor and asked the people there about Nammalvar's 1,000 verses.

[17] The people did not know the 1,000 verses that Nathamuni wanted, but they told him about 11 pasurams (hymns) of Madhurakavi Alvar, a disciple of Nammalvar, and the Kanninun Cirutampu.

Nathamuni did as advised, and pleased with his penance, Nammalvar granted him not only his 1,000 pasurams, but the entire 4,000-pasuram collection of all the Alvars.