Thiruppavai belongs to the Pavai genre of songs a unique Tamil tradition sung in the context of the Pavai vow observed throughout the month of Margazhi originally by unmarried girls praying to the Pavai goddess (related to Parvati) for a blissful married life Sri Vaishnavas sing these stanzas every day of the year in the temple as well as in their homes This practice assumes special significance during Margazhi each day of this month gets its name from one of the thirty verses There are references to this vow in the late sangam era Tamil musical anthology Paripadal \nAndal s thirty songs contain the cardinal principles of Vaishnava dharma during the month of Marghazhi Vaishnavas sing these songs to bring peace prosperity and Divine Grace Andal assumes the guise of a cowherd in these 30 verses Andal appears intent upon performing a particular religious vow to marry the Lord thereby obtain His everlasting company and inviting all her girl friends to join her Towards the end we learn that she did not actually perform a religious rite but is simply praying to be granted the service of the Lord for eternity She yearns for everlasting happiness and service of the Lord \n
