(Tiruchchanda Virutham - Part 1):
The Tiruchchanda Virutham was composed by Tirumazhisai Azhwar.
Lyrics and Meanings of verses telecast on 15.11.08:
பூ நிலாய ஐந்துமாய் புனற்கண் நின்ற நான்குமாய்
தீ நிலாய மூன்றுமாய் சிறந்த கால் இரண்டுமாய்
மீ நிலாயது ஒன்றும் ஆகி வேறு வேறு தன்மையாய்
நீ நிலாய வண்ணம் நின்னை யார் நினைக்க வல்லரே
Meaning: பூ - Earth, புனல் - water, கால்- air, மீ - space, sky
The five Gunas of Earth, the four Gunas of water, the three Gunas in holy fire, the two Gunas in the air around us, the one Guna in space above,are all your manifestations. You stand apart from all. Who can fathom thee, O Lord?
ஏக மூர்த்தி மூன்று மூர்த்தி நாலு மூர்த்தி நன்மை சேர்
போக மூர்த்தி புண்ணியத்தின் மூர்த்தி எண் இல் மூர்த்தியாய்
நாக மூர்த்தி சயனமாய் நலங்கடல் கிடந்து, மேல்
ஆக மூர்த்தி ஆயவண்ணன் என்கொல் ஆதிதேவனே
Meaning: என்கொல் - surprised
You are the Single-form (Paramporul), the three-fold form (Brahma,Vishnu and Shiva), the four-fold form, benevolent ! You are the joyous form, the holy form, the countless forms. You lie on the serpent couch in the seas. You come in different forms in temples for all to see.
வெற்பு எடுத்து வேலை-நீர் கலக்கினாய் அது அன்றியும்
வெற்பு எடுத்து வேலை நீர் வரம்பு கட்டி,வேலை சூழ்
வெற்பு எடுத்த இஞ்சி சூழ் இலங்கை கட்டழித்த நீ
வெற்பு எடுத்து மாரி காத்த மேகவண்ணன் அல்லையே
Meaning: வெற்பு - mountain, வேலை - ocean ,வரம்பு - bridge, இஞ்சி - wall
You pulled a huge mountain high to churn the Milky Ocean-deep. You later built a rocky mountain bridge across Lanka, ocean-deep (Rama Avatara). You then crossed a rocky mountain wall surrounded by the ocean-deep. You then held a mountain high on your little finger (Govardhana mountain carried by Krishna). Oh Lord of hue-like ocean-deep !
Friday, November 21, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
The Devarnama that I will never forget !
Year 1990. First year at college. Occasion : College Day Celebrations.
We, as freshers, were just hanging around on that day, trying to get accustomed to all the unfamiliar faces around us.
I was suddenly asked to go up on stage and render a song as a filler between two programmes.
It was a Purandara Dasar Devarnama that I chose to sing, in Raga Hamsanandhi. Borrowing a Sruthi Box from someone there, I started singing.
The moment I started singing, there were a lot of boos and woos from the students in the audience. Amidst all the din, I managed to finish the song and get off the stage.
I shed a few silent tears and for a moment, felt very insecure in that atmosphere. But the very next moment, I made up my mind that I would get myself noticed very soon and prove myself.
In the subsequent months, there were numerous important occasions at college, where I was asked to render the invocation song and things were totally different by the end of the first semester ! Students started enjoying the small bhajans and Tamil songs that I rendered during the College Assembly. I was soon identified as "singer" Gayathri belonging to I year, Maths Department ! (I was anyway S.Gayathri then and so this looked very apt :-) )
Very often, I bump into a lot of my college mates - be it in temples, malls or at the doctor's clinic. They immediately recollect the songs that I used to sing at college..
In retrospect, this particular incident in 1990 made me take a vow and my subsequent days and years at college were very enjoyable, fruitful and memorable.
Why am I writing all this now? - I sang this above said Purandara Dasar Devarnama at a concert two days back and my thoughts went back to this particular incident. Hence this post !
We, as freshers, were just hanging around on that day, trying to get accustomed to all the unfamiliar faces around us.
I was suddenly asked to go up on stage and render a song as a filler between two programmes.
It was a Purandara Dasar Devarnama that I chose to sing, in Raga Hamsanandhi. Borrowing a Sruthi Box from someone there, I started singing.
The moment I started singing, there were a lot of boos and woos from the students in the audience. Amidst all the din, I managed to finish the song and get off the stage.
I shed a few silent tears and for a moment, felt very insecure in that atmosphere. But the very next moment, I made up my mind that I would get myself noticed very soon and prove myself.
In the subsequent months, there were numerous important occasions at college, where I was asked to render the invocation song and things were totally different by the end of the first semester ! Students started enjoying the small bhajans and Tamil songs that I rendered during the College Assembly. I was soon identified as "singer" Gayathri belonging to I year, Maths Department ! (I was anyway S.Gayathri then and so this looked very apt :-) )
Very often, I bump into a lot of my college mates - be it in temples, malls or at the doctor's clinic. They immediately recollect the songs that I used to sing at college..
In retrospect, this particular incident in 1990 made me take a vow and my subsequent days and years at college were very enjoyable, fruitful and memorable.
Why am I writing all this now? - I sang this above said Purandara Dasar Devarnama at a concert two days back and my thoughts went back to this particular incident. Hence this post !
Friday, November 14, 2008
A Day Usefully Spent...
How does one feel at the end of a fruitful day?
As far as I am concerned, such a day leaves me exhilarated. Makes me more energetic, more happy ( I will be extra careful before I use the word "satisfied" - after what I heard from Sachin Tendulkar the other day on TV !!). My conscience is clear that I have made good use of the day.
I had a good music practice session today, polishing some old Krithis and learning a new one. Surprisingly, interruptions in the form of doorbell ringing and phone ringing were minimal today, which was a big relief :-). Singing a song or a phrase again and again helps very much. When an artist feels that he/she has internalized the song by repeated singing, the pleasure derived out of it is something very unique and cannot be described in words. It has to be felt. I strongly believe that each song that we present on stage should produce this effect.
I firmly believe in hard work and look forward to many more days of hard work in my chosen field..
With a hope that tomorrow will be as fruitful (or even more!) as today, I sign off now.
Good night !!
As far as I am concerned, such a day leaves me exhilarated. Makes me more energetic, more happy ( I will be extra careful before I use the word "satisfied" - after what I heard from Sachin Tendulkar the other day on TV !!). My conscience is clear that I have made good use of the day.
I had a good music practice session today, polishing some old Krithis and learning a new one. Surprisingly, interruptions in the form of doorbell ringing and phone ringing were minimal today, which was a big relief :-). Singing a song or a phrase again and again helps very much. When an artist feels that he/she has internalized the song by repeated singing, the pleasure derived out of it is something very unique and cannot be described in words. It has to be felt. I strongly believe that each song that we present on stage should produce this effect.
I firmly believe in hard work and look forward to many more days of hard work in my chosen field..
With a hope that tomorrow will be as fruitful (or even more!) as today, I sign off now.
Good night !!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Inspiring TV Interviews
After my concert on 9th November, at BRRS,Chembur in Mumbai, I returned to my hotel and switched on the TV. While surfing through the channels I came across an interview on uTVi channel,with writer and leadership coach Robin Sharma. What an inspiring interview it was ! Such clarity of thoughts and ideas. He talked about the importance of realizing one's inner self and said how vital it is in life, especially in the current period, when there is global economic unrest. He talked about leadership qualities and how one should discover hidden opportunities even in one's failures.
I have really enjoyed reading books like "The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari", "Discover Your Destiny", "Family Wisdom",authored by Robin Sharma.
After this programme, I came across another awesome interview on IBN channel, where Mr. Rajdeep Sardesai interviewed two great legends of Indian Cricket, Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar. I really enjoyed watching this show.
I have always admired Sachin's simplicity and down-to-earth attitude. He talked beautifully and I could see that all his answers were very honest and straight from his heart ! Of course, I am no one to even comment upon Mr.Gavaskar's wonderful way of talking and handling situations ! He has always been one of my favourite cricketers.
When asked which has been the most glorious moment in each of their cricketing careers, Gavaskar immediately said it was India's World Cup victory in 1983. And, Sachin said the most memorable moment was when he adorned his Cricket cap for the very first time, when he represented the Indian team. I could "feel" the passion with which he gave that answer..
Sachin has always talked about his role models Viv Richards and Sunil Gavaskar in almost all his interviews, and this show was no exception. He said Gavaskar's three D's (discipline, determination and dedication) have always inspired him.
Gavaskar, when asked what he likes the most about Sachin, said it is the balance that Sachin displays, both on and off the field. He said mental balance is a very vital factor in anyone's path towards success and that he has found this in Sachin.
Sachin, when asked which has been his most satisfying innings so far,gave his usual charming smile and said," I have been happy on many occasions with my game, but seldom satisfied". What an answer from such a legend! In such a subtle manner, he gave the difference between "being happy" and "being satisfied".
Well, I can go on and on about this interview. Each question and each answer has got imprinted in my mind !
Along with thousands and thousands of fans of these two legends all over the world, I wish to convey that they have indeed made our country proud. Hats off to these two great players and wishing them all success and happiness..
I have really enjoyed reading books like "The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari", "Discover Your Destiny", "Family Wisdom",authored by Robin Sharma.
After this programme, I came across another awesome interview on IBN channel, where Mr. Rajdeep Sardesai interviewed two great legends of Indian Cricket, Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar. I really enjoyed watching this show.
I have always admired Sachin's simplicity and down-to-earth attitude. He talked beautifully and I could see that all his answers were very honest and straight from his heart ! Of course, I am no one to even comment upon Mr.Gavaskar's wonderful way of talking and handling situations ! He has always been one of my favourite cricketers.
When asked which has been the most glorious moment in each of their cricketing careers, Gavaskar immediately said it was India's World Cup victory in 1983. And, Sachin said the most memorable moment was when he adorned his Cricket cap for the very first time, when he represented the Indian team. I could "feel" the passion with which he gave that answer..
Sachin has always talked about his role models Viv Richards and Sunil Gavaskar in almost all his interviews, and this show was no exception. He said Gavaskar's three D's (discipline, determination and dedication) have always inspired him.
Gavaskar, when asked what he likes the most about Sachin, said it is the balance that Sachin displays, both on and off the field. He said mental balance is a very vital factor in anyone's path towards success and that he has found this in Sachin.
Sachin, when asked which has been his most satisfying innings so far,gave his usual charming smile and said," I have been happy on many occasions with my game, but seldom satisfied". What an answer from such a legend! In such a subtle manner, he gave the difference between "being happy" and "being satisfied".
Well, I can go on and on about this interview. Each question and each answer has got imprinted in my mind !
Along with thousands and thousands of fans of these two legends all over the world, I wish to convey that they have indeed made our country proud. Hats off to these two great players and wishing them all success and happiness..
Divya Prabandham - Part 3
(Naanmugan Tiruvanthaadhi - Part 2):
Lyrics and meaning of verses telecast on 8.11.08:
திறம்பேன்மின் கண்டீர் திருவடி தன் நாமம்
மறந்தும்,புறந் தொழா மாந்தர் இறைஞ்சியும்,
சாதுவராய்ப் போதுமின்கள் என்றான் நமனும்-தன்
தூதுவரைக் கூவிச் செவிக்கு
Meaning: கண்டீர்-beware ,திறம்பேன்மின் - மீறுதல்
நமன் - காலன்,யமன்
Yama, the God of death, called his messengers aside and said, "Beware, My orders are thus : the Lord's devotees may even forget His names, but they will never worship other Gods. If you see such devotees, bow down to them with courtesy. Don't disobey my orders".
செவிக்கு இன்பம் ஆவதுவும் செங்கண் மால் நாமம்
புவிக்கும் புவி அதுவே கண்டீர்-கவிக்கு
நிறை பொருளாய் நின்றானை நேர் பட்டேன், பார்க்கில்
மறைப் பொருளும் அத்தனையே தான்
Meaning: நேர் பட்டேன் - சந்தித்தேன்
Sweet to the ears are the names of the Lord. It is the place of refuge for all men. HE is the substance of my poetry and of the Vedas.
இல்லறம் இல்லேல் துறவறம் இல் என்னும்
சொல்,அறம் அல்லனவும் சொல் அல்ல - நல்லறம்
ஆவனவும், நால் வேத மாத் தவமும் நாரணனே
ஆவது ஈது அன்று என்பார் ஆர்?
Meaning: ஈது அன்று - இல்லை என்று
To say that pursuing the various Asramas - namely, student, householder, forest-dweller or that of renunciation- alone is sufficient to give the fruits of life is not correct. Even the paths of right conduct and renunciation taught in the Vedas certainly lead to Narayana as the Supreme goal. Who can deny this?
Lyrics and meaning of verses telecast on 8.11.08:
திறம்பேன்மின் கண்டீர் திருவடி தன் நாமம்
மறந்தும்,புறந் தொழா மாந்தர் இறைஞ்சியும்,
சாதுவராய்ப் போதுமின்கள் என்றான் நமனும்-தன்
தூதுவரைக் கூவிச் செவிக்கு
Meaning: கண்டீர்-beware ,திறம்பேன்மின் - மீறுதல்
நமன் - காலன்,யமன்
Yama, the God of death, called his messengers aside and said, "Beware, My orders are thus : the Lord's devotees may even forget His names, but they will never worship other Gods. If you see such devotees, bow down to them with courtesy. Don't disobey my orders".
செவிக்கு இன்பம் ஆவதுவும் செங்கண் மால் நாமம்
புவிக்கும் புவி அதுவே கண்டீர்-கவிக்கு
நிறை பொருளாய் நின்றானை நேர் பட்டேன், பார்க்கில்
மறைப் பொருளும் அத்தனையே தான்
Meaning: நேர் பட்டேன் - சந்தித்தேன்
Sweet to the ears are the names of the Lord. It is the place of refuge for all men. HE is the substance of my poetry and of the Vedas.
இல்லறம் இல்லேல் துறவறம் இல் என்னும்
சொல்,அறம் அல்லனவும் சொல் அல்ல - நல்லறம்
ஆவனவும், நால் வேத மாத் தவமும் நாரணனே
ஆவது ஈது அன்று என்பார் ஆர்?
Meaning: ஈது அன்று - இல்லை என்று
To say that pursuing the various Asramas - namely, student, householder, forest-dweller or that of renunciation- alone is sufficient to give the fruits of life is not correct. Even the paths of right conduct and renunciation taught in the Vedas certainly lead to Narayana as the Supreme goal. Who can deny this?
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Divya Prabandham - Part 2
(Naanmugan Tiruvanthaadhi - Part 1):
Naanmugan Tiruvanthaadhi is a set of 100 verses composed by Tirumazhisai Azhwar.
(Five earlier verses of Naanmugan Tiruvanthaadhi have already been telecast during previous weeks).
I have given below the lyrics and meaning of verses that were telecast on 1.11.2008:
கொண்டு குடங்கால் மேல் வைத்த குழவியாய்
தண்ட அரக்கன் தலை தாளால் பண்டு எண்ணி
போம் குமரன் நிற்கும் பொழில் வேங்கடமலைக்கே
போம் குமரருள்ளீர் புரிந்து
Meaning: குடங்கால் - உள்ளங்கால், அரக்கன் - அசுரன்(here, Ravana),
பொழில் - சோலைகள், புரிந்து - ஆசைப்பட்டு
When Ravana performed penance, Brahma appeared before him to grant him boons. The Lord then,appeared as a child, sat on Brahma's lap and counted Ravana's heads with his ten toes (indicating that Ravana deserves punishment)
Young people ! Go with love to Venkatam, where He resides.
கூற்றமும் சாரா கொடு வினையும் சாரா, தீ
மாற்றமும் சாரா வகை அறிந்தேன் ஆற்றல்
கரைக் கிடக்கும் கண்ணன்,கடல் கிடக்கும் மாயன்
உரைக் கிடக்கும் உள்ளத்து எனக்கு
Meaning: கூற்றம் - யமன், வகை - வழி
The wonder, Lord Krishna, who resides in the ocean (திருப்பாற்கடல்) and the riverside (திருக்காவேரி),resides in my poetic heart. Death (Yama) will not approach me henceforth.No more will Karmas accrue on me. No more will the terrible effects of Karmas befall me. I know the way.
அன்பு ஆவாய், ஆர் அமுதம் ஆவாய்,அடியேனுக்கு
இன்பு ஆவாய், எல்லாமும் நீ ஆவாய் - பொன் பாவை
கேள்வா கிளர் ஒளி என கேசவனே, கேடு இன்றி
ஆள்வாய்க்கு அடியேன் நான், ஆள்
Meaning: கிளர் ஒளி - ப்ரகாசம், பொன் பாவை - மஹாலக்ஷ்மி
Oh Lord of lotus-dame Lakshmi ! My radiant Kesava ! You are my love ! You are sweet to me ! You are my all ! You rule over me without a fault ! I am your humble servant.
Naanmugan Tiruvanthaadhi is a set of 100 verses composed by Tirumazhisai Azhwar.
(Five earlier verses of Naanmugan Tiruvanthaadhi have already been telecast during previous weeks).
I have given below the lyrics and meaning of verses that were telecast on 1.11.2008:
கொண்டு குடங்கால் மேல் வைத்த குழவியாய்
தண்ட அரக்கன் தலை தாளால் பண்டு எண்ணி
போம் குமரன் நிற்கும் பொழில் வேங்கடமலைக்கே
போம் குமரருள்ளீர் புரிந்து
Meaning: குடங்கால் - உள்ளங்கால், அரக்கன் - அசுரன்(here, Ravana),
பொழில் - சோலைகள், புரிந்து - ஆசைப்பட்டு
When Ravana performed penance, Brahma appeared before him to grant him boons. The Lord then,appeared as a child, sat on Brahma's lap and counted Ravana's heads with his ten toes (indicating that Ravana deserves punishment)
Young people ! Go with love to Venkatam, where He resides.
கூற்றமும் சாரா கொடு வினையும் சாரா, தீ
மாற்றமும் சாரா வகை அறிந்தேன் ஆற்றல்
கரைக் கிடக்கும் கண்ணன்,கடல் கிடக்கும் மாயன்
உரைக் கிடக்கும் உள்ளத்து எனக்கு
Meaning: கூற்றம் - யமன், வகை - வழி
The wonder, Lord Krishna, who resides in the ocean (திருப்பாற்கடல்) and the riverside (திருக்காவேரி),resides in my poetic heart. Death (Yama) will not approach me henceforth.No more will Karmas accrue on me. No more will the terrible effects of Karmas befall me. I know the way.
அன்பு ஆவாய், ஆர் அமுதம் ஆவாய்,அடியேனுக்கு
இன்பு ஆவாய், எல்லாமும் நீ ஆவாய் - பொன் பாவை
கேள்வா கிளர் ஒளி என கேசவனே, கேடு இன்றி
ஆள்வாய்க்கு அடியேன் நான், ஆள்
Meaning: கிளர் ஒளி - ப்ரகாசம், பொன் பாவை - மஹாலக்ஷ்மி
Oh Lord of lotus-dame Lakshmi ! My radiant Kesava ! You are my love ! You are sweet to me ! You are my all ! You rule over me without a fault ! I am your humble servant.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Virutham-Keerthanam Special Concert: 30th May,1998
I was not planning to post anything now,until five minutes back, when I happened to come across tapes of a concert that took place on 30.5.1998.
Of late, my blog has, by default, become the medium of expression for my thoughts- whether musical or philosophical, and a place for me to share my experiences and recollections from the past.
So this is why I have landed up writing now and here I go :-)
In April 1998 it was decided that we would have a thematic "Virutham-Keerthanam" concert, wherein, Vidwan Sethalapathy Balasubramaniam (Balu Mama, as he was known to us)would sing different Viruthams (Virutham singing had always been Mama's forte),and each of them would be followed by a suitable Kriti that I would render.
Kasturi Srinivasan Hall (Music Academy Mini Hall) was fixed as the venue for this concert. One day at my place,as Mama and I were sitting and planning the items for the concert, my grandmother was sitting and watching the proceedings..Her all time favourite song was Senthil Andavan (she would ask me to sing it at every concert of mine that she attended :-)).
She told Balu Mama, "I would love to listen to a Virutham for Senthil Andavan now, followed by the song". And, Mama immediately went into an excellent Kharaharapriya singing one Virutham after another. As she was listening to this profuse outpouring of soulful Viruthams from Mama, Patti's eyes were filled with tears.
We then decided to have Kharaharapriya as one of the pieces in this concert.
The concert did happen on 30.5.98. Mama did sing a beautiful Kharaharapriya that day. I did sing the Kriti Senthil Andavan. But Patti was not there to listen to her favourite Kharaharapriya at this concert. She passed away just a few days before this concert...
Of late, my blog has, by default, become the medium of expression for my thoughts- whether musical or philosophical, and a place for me to share my experiences and recollections from the past.
So this is why I have landed up writing now and here I go :-)
In April 1998 it was decided that we would have a thematic "Virutham-Keerthanam" concert, wherein, Vidwan Sethalapathy Balasubramaniam (Balu Mama, as he was known to us)would sing different Viruthams (Virutham singing had always been Mama's forte),and each of them would be followed by a suitable Kriti that I would render.
Kasturi Srinivasan Hall (Music Academy Mini Hall) was fixed as the venue for this concert. One day at my place,as Mama and I were sitting and planning the items for the concert, my grandmother was sitting and watching the proceedings..Her all time favourite song was Senthil Andavan (she would ask me to sing it at every concert of mine that she attended :-)).
She told Balu Mama, "I would love to listen to a Virutham for Senthil Andavan now, followed by the song". And, Mama immediately went into an excellent Kharaharapriya singing one Virutham after another. As she was listening to this profuse outpouring of soulful Viruthams from Mama, Patti's eyes were filled with tears.
We then decided to have Kharaharapriya as one of the pieces in this concert.
The concert did happen on 30.5.98. Mama did sing a beautiful Kharaharapriya that day. I did sing the Kriti Senthil Andavan. But Patti was not there to listen to her favourite Kharaharapriya at this concert. She passed away just a few days before this concert...
Monday, November 3, 2008
Tirukkovalur (Tirukkovilur)
As I was writing the previous post, I thought of writing a separate post on Tirukkovalur, the place which is supposed to have been the meeting point for the Mudhal Azhwars (Poigaiazhwar, Budattazhwar and Peyazhwar).
TIrukkovalur(Tirukkovilur) is a famous Sthalam, both in the Shaivaite and Vaishnavaite forms of worship.
Veeratteswara temple: This is one of the 8 Veeratta Stalams of Shiva and one of the 275 sacred temples glorified by the Thevara hymns. It is also known as Kizhur. It is located about 35 kms south of Tiruvannamalai,Tamilnadu. The Shiva temple here is called Veeratteswarar temple.
The word "Veeratta Sthalam" means, a place where Lord Shiva is believed to have destroyed demons. Tirukkovalur is said to be the place where he vanquished the demon Andakasuran.
Sambandar and Appar have composed hymns (padhigams) on this temple.
I had the fortune of performing (about 2 years back) in Tirukkovalur during a Tamizh Isai Festival and I presented all Tevarams in this concert. Here are the lyrics of two hymns- one of Appar, and one of Sambandar (both composed in praise of the deity at Tirukkovalur), that I sang at this concert :
அப்பர் - திருநேரிசை-விருத்தம் (பந்துவராளி)
படைகள் போல் வினைகள் வந்து பற்றி
என் பக்கல் நின்றும் விடகிலா
ஆதலாலே-விகிர்தனை விரும்பி ஏத்தும் இடையிலேன்
என் செய்கேன் நான் இரப்பவர் தங்கட்கு என்றும்
கொடையிலேன் கொள்வதே நான்
கோவல் வீரட்டன் நீரே !
சம்பந்தர் - பண் நட்டராகம் (பந்துவராளி)
படைகொள் கூற்றம் வந்து மெய்ப்
பாசம் விட்ட போதின் கண்
இடை கொள்வார் எமக்கில்லை
எழுக போது நெஞ்சமே
குடைகொள் வேந்தன் மூதாதை
குழகன் கோவலூர் தன்னுள்
விடையதேறும் கொடியினான்
வீரட்டானம் சேர்துமே
ஆறுபட்ட புன்சடை அழகன் ஆயிழைக்கொரு
கூறுபட்ட மேனியான் குழகன் கோவலூர் தன்னுள்
நீறுபட்ட கோலத்தான் நீலகண்டன் இருவர்க்கும்
வேறுபட்ட சிந்தையான் வீரட்டானம் சேர்துமே
Ulagalanda Perumal Temple: Also located in this town is the well known Ulagalanda Perumaal Temple, one of the 108 Divya Desams of Vishnu.
One must definitely see this amazing temple, which has an imposing image of Ulagalanda Perumal or Trivikrama, with his foot raised,facing east. According to legends, Mrikandu Maharishi is said to have worshipped Lord Vishnu here as Trivikrama. It is said that Lord Vishnu took the form of Vamana. In order to subdue the demon king Mahabali, he took an enormous form, conquered the Earth and heavens. When Mahabali offered his head as the resting point for the Lord to place his foot, he is said to have banished Mahabali to Hell.
Tirukkovilur is also considered to be one of the Pancha(five) Krishna-Kshetrams.
TIrukkovalur(Tirukkovilur) is a famous Sthalam, both in the Shaivaite and Vaishnavaite forms of worship.
Veeratteswara temple: This is one of the 8 Veeratta Stalams of Shiva and one of the 275 sacred temples glorified by the Thevara hymns. It is also known as Kizhur. It is located about 35 kms south of Tiruvannamalai,Tamilnadu. The Shiva temple here is called Veeratteswarar temple.
The word "Veeratta Sthalam" means, a place where Lord Shiva is believed to have destroyed demons. Tirukkovalur is said to be the place where he vanquished the demon Andakasuran.
Sambandar and Appar have composed hymns (padhigams) on this temple.
I had the fortune of performing (about 2 years back) in Tirukkovalur during a Tamizh Isai Festival and I presented all Tevarams in this concert. Here are the lyrics of two hymns- one of Appar, and one of Sambandar (both composed in praise of the deity at Tirukkovalur), that I sang at this concert :
அப்பர் - திருநேரிசை-விருத்தம் (பந்துவராளி)
படைகள் போல் வினைகள் வந்து பற்றி
என் பக்கல் நின்றும் விடகிலா
ஆதலாலே-விகிர்தனை விரும்பி ஏத்தும் இடையிலேன்
என் செய்கேன் நான் இரப்பவர் தங்கட்கு என்றும்
கொடையிலேன் கொள்வதே நான்
கோவல் வீரட்டன் நீரே !
சம்பந்தர் - பண் நட்டராகம் (பந்துவராளி)
படைகொள் கூற்றம் வந்து மெய்ப்
பாசம் விட்ட போதின் கண்
இடை கொள்வார் எமக்கில்லை
எழுக போது நெஞ்சமே
குடைகொள் வேந்தன் மூதாதை
குழகன் கோவலூர் தன்னுள்
விடையதேறும் கொடியினான்
வீரட்டானம் சேர்துமே
ஆறுபட்ட புன்சடை அழகன் ஆயிழைக்கொரு
கூறுபட்ட மேனியான் குழகன் கோவலூர் தன்னுள்
நீறுபட்ட கோலத்தான் நீலகண்டன் இருவர்க்கும்
வேறுபட்ட சிந்தையான் வீரட்டானம் சேர்துமே
Ulagalanda Perumal Temple: Also located in this town is the well known Ulagalanda Perumaal Temple, one of the 108 Divya Desams of Vishnu.
One must definitely see this amazing temple, which has an imposing image of Ulagalanda Perumal or Trivikrama, with his foot raised,facing east. According to legends, Mrikandu Maharishi is said to have worshipped Lord Vishnu here as Trivikrama. It is said that Lord Vishnu took the form of Vamana. In order to subdue the demon king Mahabali, he took an enormous form, conquered the Earth and heavens. When Mahabali offered his head as the resting point for the Lord to place his foot, he is said to have banished Mahabali to Hell.
Tirukkovilur is also considered to be one of the Pancha(five) Krishna-Kshetrams.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Divya Prabandham - Part 1
(continued from previous post)..
The incident which triggered the Mudhal Thiruvanthaadhi, Irandam Thiruvanthaadhi and Moondram Thiruvanthaadhi verses to get composed:
Once, these three Azhwars chanced to meet at a place called Tirukkoyilur. Feeling sleepy at nightfall, Poigai Alwar found a small room at the entrance of a house just enough for a single person to lie down and sleep. After a while, there came Budat Alwar who requested permission to stay with him. Poigai Alwar permitted him saying that the room was sufficient for two people to just sit down. No sooner had they seated themselves, there came Pey Alwar also seeking a place to rest. It had by then started to rain.
The two earlier occupants accommodated the newcomer saying that the three could stand, because the space was just enough for that.
As they started to share their experiences, they found that an invisible fourth person was trying to turn the company into a crowd by trying to accomodate himself in the already cramped space.
The three Alwars found out in their divine vision that the fourth person was none other than Lord Vishnu, who had brought them together.
As it was pitch dark and they had no way of producing light, Poigai Azhwar hit upon the idea of lighting a novel lamp to have a vision of the Lord. Using the elements of Nature as ingredients, considering the whole earth as a lamp, the waters of the salty seas as oil and with the shining Sun as the wick, he lit a glorious lamp that would shine forever and show up everything with clarity.
He sang thus:
வையம் தகளியா வார் கடலே நெய்யாக
வெய்ய கதிரோன் விளக்காக - செய்ய
சுடர் ஆழியான் அடிக்கே சூட்டினேன் சொல்மாலை
இடர் ஆழி நீங்குகவே என்று
Vaiyam Thagaliyaa Vaar Kadale Neyyaaga
Veyyak Kadiron Vilakkaaga - seyya
Sudar Aazhiyaan Adikke Soottinen Sol Malai
Idar Aaazhi Neengugave Enru
Vaiyam : Universe, VaarKadal : The sea surrounding it, Thagazhi : Lamp
Veyyak Kadiron : Hot Sun, Seyya : Beautiful, Sudar Aazhi : Bright discus
SolMalai : Garland of words (verses), Idar Aazhi : ocean of misery (Samsara)
Meaning: Lord Narayana, who holds the Divine Chakraayudha, is the cause of this wonderful universe and the seas. In order to cross the miserable ocean of 'Samsara', I am singing these Maalai(Garland) of verses(paasurams) and dedicating to Him, whose vision I had with the light emanating from the lamp of the earth, oil being the seas, the sun being the source of the light.
Next, Budattaazhwar lit another lamp, using entirely home-made ingredients, all available within oneself and yet the hardest to find in any human being- he made a lamp out of his unfathomable love for the Lord. Oil for the lamp was his uncontrollable urge to see the Lord and the wick was his intellect, made sweet and melting by constant contemplation of the Lord. He sang:
அன்பே தகளியா, ஆர்வமே நெய்யாக
இன்பு உருகு சிந்தை இடு திரியா - நன்பு உருகி
ஞானச் சுடர் விளக்கு ஏற்றினேன் நாரணற்கு
ஞானத் தமிழ் புரிந்த நான்.
Anbe Thagaliyaa Aarvame Neyyaaga
Inburugu Chintai Idu Thiriyaa - Nanbu Urugi
Gnaana Chudar Vilakku Etrinen Naaranarku
Gnaana Thamizh Purindha Naan
Aarvam : Involvement, Parabhakti-to feel the love of God intimately, Inbu : endearing
Meaning: It is the love as the lamp and involvement as the oil and the Azhwar says" I dedicate myself to the service of the Lord, by singing this song that blesses wisdom(Gnaana), with love as the lamp,endearing involvement as the oil(Ghee), and knowledge as the wick of the torch".
Such was the extraordinary illumination provided by the two lamps lit by these two Yogis, that the third, Sri Peyazhwar, was able to see clearly the fourth person who had been squeezing them tight. He sang:
திருக்கண்டேன் பொன்மேனி கண்டேன், திகழும்
அருக்கன் அணி நிறமும் கண்டேன் - செருக் கிளரும்
பொன் ஆழி கண்டேன்,புரி சங்கம் கைக் கண்டேன்
என் ஆழி வண்ணன்பால்,இன்று
Tiruk Kanden Pon Meni Kanden Thigazhum
Arukkan Ani Niramum Kanden-Seruk Kilarum
Pon Aazhi Kanden, Puri Sangam Kai Kanden
En Aazhi Vannan Paal, Inru
Seru : Battle, Aazhi Vannan : One whose color is like that of the blue seas.
Meaning: First and foremost, the Azhwar's eyes lit up on seeing the glorious form of Sri Mahalakshmi adorning the broad chest of the Lord-"Tirukkanden" sang out Sri Peyazhwar, excited by the wonderful spectacle that caught his eye.
Ponmeni Kanden - Having realized, from the presence of the Divine Consort, that it was none other than Lord Narayana who had entered, Azhwar's sight fell next on the glorious golden Tirumeni of the Lord.
The blazing complexion of the fourth guest imprinted itself upon Azhwar's eyes, prompting him to comment ecstatically on the same-"Thigazhum arukkan ani niramum kanden". The Lord's Divine Discus and the Cosmic Conch adorning His upper hands presented a spectacular sight to the thirsty eyes of the Azhwar-"Serukkilarum Ponnaazhi kanden, puri Sangam kai kanden".
The three Azhwars, inspired by the grand vision of the Lord's glorious form in their midst, poured out their devotion in a hundred beautiful verses each, filled with Bhakti.
Poigai Azhwar composed the first 100 verses starting with the words ' Vaiyam Tagaliya, Varkadale Neyyaaga' ( the universe being the lamp and the oceans being the oil).
Budattazhwar composed the next 100 verses starting with the words 'Anbe Thagaliya, Aarvame Neyyaaga' ( the love as the lamp, the involvement as the oil).
Pey Alwar concluded by singing the third 100 verses starting with the words ' Tiruk Kanden, Pon Meni Kanden' ( I found the glorious, golden form of the Lord').
The verses were so constructed that the ending word of each verse became the commencing word of the next verse - a special kind of prosody characteristic of Tamil literature called 'Anta Adhi' 'Anta' means 'end' and 'Adhi' means 'beginning'. The three works were thus called Mudhal (First) Anthaadhi, Irandam (Second) Anthaadhi and Moondram (Third) Anthaadhi respectively.
These three works which constitute the earliest poetical compositions by the Vaishnava saints of South India, contain philosophical and theological ideas of Srivaishnavam.
(My next post this week will be on Tirumazhisai Azhwar's work 'Naanmugan Tiruvanthaadhi').
The incident which triggered the Mudhal Thiruvanthaadhi, Irandam Thiruvanthaadhi and Moondram Thiruvanthaadhi verses to get composed:
Once, these three Azhwars chanced to meet at a place called Tirukkoyilur. Feeling sleepy at nightfall, Poigai Alwar found a small room at the entrance of a house just enough for a single person to lie down and sleep. After a while, there came Budat Alwar who requested permission to stay with him. Poigai Alwar permitted him saying that the room was sufficient for two people to just sit down. No sooner had they seated themselves, there came Pey Alwar also seeking a place to rest. It had by then started to rain.
The two earlier occupants accommodated the newcomer saying that the three could stand, because the space was just enough for that.
As they started to share their experiences, they found that an invisible fourth person was trying to turn the company into a crowd by trying to accomodate himself in the already cramped space.
The three Alwars found out in their divine vision that the fourth person was none other than Lord Vishnu, who had brought them together.
As it was pitch dark and they had no way of producing light, Poigai Azhwar hit upon the idea of lighting a novel lamp to have a vision of the Lord. Using the elements of Nature as ingredients, considering the whole earth as a lamp, the waters of the salty seas as oil and with the shining Sun as the wick, he lit a glorious lamp that would shine forever and show up everything with clarity.
He sang thus:
வையம் தகளியா வார் கடலே நெய்யாக
வெய்ய கதிரோன் விளக்காக - செய்ய
சுடர் ஆழியான் அடிக்கே சூட்டினேன் சொல்மாலை
இடர் ஆழி நீங்குகவே என்று
Vaiyam Thagaliyaa Vaar Kadale Neyyaaga
Veyyak Kadiron Vilakkaaga - seyya
Sudar Aazhiyaan Adikke Soottinen Sol Malai
Idar Aaazhi Neengugave Enru
Vaiyam : Universe, VaarKadal : The sea surrounding it, Thagazhi : Lamp
Veyyak Kadiron : Hot Sun, Seyya : Beautiful, Sudar Aazhi : Bright discus
SolMalai : Garland of words (verses), Idar Aazhi : ocean of misery (Samsara)
Meaning: Lord Narayana, who holds the Divine Chakraayudha, is the cause of this wonderful universe and the seas. In order to cross the miserable ocean of 'Samsara', I am singing these Maalai(Garland) of verses(paasurams) and dedicating to Him, whose vision I had with the light emanating from the lamp of the earth, oil being the seas, the sun being the source of the light.
Next, Budattaazhwar lit another lamp, using entirely home-made ingredients, all available within oneself and yet the hardest to find in any human being- he made a lamp out of his unfathomable love for the Lord. Oil for the lamp was his uncontrollable urge to see the Lord and the wick was his intellect, made sweet and melting by constant contemplation of the Lord. He sang:
அன்பே தகளியா, ஆர்வமே நெய்யாக
இன்பு உருகு சிந்தை இடு திரியா - நன்பு உருகி
ஞானச் சுடர் விளக்கு ஏற்றினேன் நாரணற்கு
ஞானத் தமிழ் புரிந்த நான்.
Anbe Thagaliyaa Aarvame Neyyaaga
Inburugu Chintai Idu Thiriyaa - Nanbu Urugi
Gnaana Chudar Vilakku Etrinen Naaranarku
Gnaana Thamizh Purindha Naan
Aarvam : Involvement, Parabhakti-to feel the love of God intimately, Inbu : endearing
Meaning: It is the love as the lamp and involvement as the oil and the Azhwar says" I dedicate myself to the service of the Lord, by singing this song that blesses wisdom(Gnaana), with love as the lamp,endearing involvement as the oil(Ghee), and knowledge as the wick of the torch".
Such was the extraordinary illumination provided by the two lamps lit by these two Yogis, that the third, Sri Peyazhwar, was able to see clearly the fourth person who had been squeezing them tight. He sang:
திருக்கண்டேன் பொன்மேனி கண்டேன், திகழும்
அருக்கன் அணி நிறமும் கண்டேன் - செருக் கிளரும்
பொன் ஆழி கண்டேன்,புரி சங்கம் கைக் கண்டேன்
என் ஆழி வண்ணன்பால்,இன்று
Tiruk Kanden Pon Meni Kanden Thigazhum
Arukkan Ani Niramum Kanden-Seruk Kilarum
Pon Aazhi Kanden, Puri Sangam Kai Kanden
En Aazhi Vannan Paal, Inru
Seru : Battle, Aazhi Vannan : One whose color is like that of the blue seas.
Meaning: First and foremost, the Azhwar's eyes lit up on seeing the glorious form of Sri Mahalakshmi adorning the broad chest of the Lord-"Tirukkanden" sang out Sri Peyazhwar, excited by the wonderful spectacle that caught his eye.
Ponmeni Kanden - Having realized, from the presence of the Divine Consort, that it was none other than Lord Narayana who had entered, Azhwar's sight fell next on the glorious golden Tirumeni of the Lord.
The blazing complexion of the fourth guest imprinted itself upon Azhwar's eyes, prompting him to comment ecstatically on the same-"Thigazhum arukkan ani niramum kanden". The Lord's Divine Discus and the Cosmic Conch adorning His upper hands presented a spectacular sight to the thirsty eyes of the Azhwar-"Serukkilarum Ponnaazhi kanden, puri Sangam kai kanden".
The three Azhwars, inspired by the grand vision of the Lord's glorious form in their midst, poured out their devotion in a hundred beautiful verses each, filled with Bhakti.
Poigai Azhwar composed the first 100 verses starting with the words ' Vaiyam Tagaliya, Varkadale Neyyaaga' ( the universe being the lamp and the oceans being the oil).
Budattazhwar composed the next 100 verses starting with the words 'Anbe Thagaliya, Aarvame Neyyaaga' ( the love as the lamp, the involvement as the oil).
Pey Alwar concluded by singing the third 100 verses starting with the words ' Tiruk Kanden, Pon Meni Kanden' ( I found the glorious, golden form of the Lord').
The verses were so constructed that the ending word of each verse became the commencing word of the next verse - a special kind of prosody characteristic of Tamil literature called 'Anta Adhi' 'Anta' means 'end' and 'Adhi' means 'beginning'. The three works were thus called Mudhal (First) Anthaadhi, Irandam (Second) Anthaadhi and Moondram (Third) Anthaadhi respectively.
These three works which constitute the earliest poetical compositions by the Vaishnava saints of South India, contain philosophical and theological ideas of Srivaishnavam.
(My next post this week will be on Tirumazhisai Azhwar's work 'Naanmugan Tiruvanthaadhi').
Divya Prabandham - Introduction
For the past few months, I have been working as part of a mammoth archival project initiated by DD-Podhigal TV channel. The channel has taken up the task of recording the 'Naalaayira Divya Prabandham', amongst its various other archival projects.
We have been taking up samples from each of the Azhwar's works and this programme titled 'Azhwargalum Amudha Thamizhum' is telecast from 7.10 a.m to 7.40 a.m, every Saturday (and a repeat telecast from 9 a.m to 9.30 a.m on the following Thursday).
So far, we have completed the works of the first three Azhwars, having chosen a sample of 16 verses each, from the total of 100 verses in each.
Verses from the next Azhwar, Thirumazhisai Azhwar's work, called 'Naanmugan Thiruvanthaadhi' are being telecast now. I propose to list the verses and give their meanings here as weekly posts, soon after each episode is telecast. (Each episode covers about 3 to 4 verses, commencing with commentary for the particular verse by Sri.Tha.Ku.Subramaniam, followed by the verse being rendered by me.)
I thought I would give in this post, a brief introduction to 'Divya Prabandham' and in the next post titled 'Divya Prabandam-Part 1',about the first three Azhwars' works:
INTRODUCTION:
Azhwar means "One who immerses himself". The Azhwars deeply immersed themselves in their devotion and Bhakti towards Lord Narayana. The Azhwars are reported to be incarnations of the weapons used by the Lord, like the Vanamaali, the Garuda, conch, mace, sword etc.
The wisdom of the Azhwars was the direct result of the Lord's divine grace and therefore called ' Divyam'. It is because of this that the works of the Azhwars are collectively called ' Divya Prabandham'.These are a set of 4000 poems (paasurams).
The Azhwar Pasurams are arranged as under:
1. Mudhalaayiram (1000)
* Periyaazhwar Thirumozhi:473
* Thiruppavai:30
* Naachiyar Thirumozhi:143
* Perumal Thirumozhi:105
* Thiruchchanda Virutham:120
* Thirumaalai:45
* Thiruppalli Ezhuchi:10
* Amalanaadhipiraan:10
* Kanni Nun Chiruthambu:11
Total:947
2.Irandamayiram (2000)
* Periya Thirumozhi:1084
* Thiruckurundhandagam:20
* Thiru Nedundhaandagam:30
Total:1134
3.Moondrayiram (3000)
* Thiruvai Mozhi:1102
Total:1102
4. Naalaamaayiram (4000)
* Mudhal Thiruvanthaadhi:100
* Irandam Thiruvanthaadhi:100
* Moondram Thiruvanthaadhi:100
* Naan Mugan Thiruvanthaadhi:96
* Thiruvirutham:100
* Thiruvaasiriyam:7
* Periya Tjorivamdhaadhi:87
* Thiru Ezhu Kootru Irukai:1
* Siriya Thirumadal:40
* Periya Thirumadal:78
* Iramanuja Nootrandhadhi:108
Total:817
Mudhalayiram(1st 1000): 947
Irandaayiram (2nd 1000): 1134
Moondrayiram(3rd 1000):1102
Naalaayiram( 4th 1000):817
Total: 4000
Poigai Azhwar, Budat Azhwar and Pey Azhwar are the first three Alwars ( Mudal Alwars).
They were contemporaries who were born in the same year, in the same month, in the same Suklapaksha on successive Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday respectively.
Poigai Azhwar is believed to be an incarnation of Paanchajanyam(the divine conch of Lord Vishnu,called Sanghu in Tamil). He appeared on the lotus bud in a pond (Poigai)in Tiruvekka near Kanchipuram.
Budat Azhwar, an incarnation of Kaumodhaki (the divine mace of Lord Vishnu) appeared in a Kurukkatti flower in Mahabalipuram, also near Kanchipuram where the Lord instead of reclining on his divine couch of Adisesha, reclines on the floor and hence is called ' Stala Sayana Perumal'.
Pey Azhwar, an incarnation of Nandaki (the divine sword of Lord Vishnu) appeared in a red lily flower (sevvalli) in the well of the temple of Adhikesava Perumal at Mylapore, Madras.
(To be continued in the next post...)
We have been taking up samples from each of the Azhwar's works and this programme titled 'Azhwargalum Amudha Thamizhum' is telecast from 7.10 a.m to 7.40 a.m, every Saturday (and a repeat telecast from 9 a.m to 9.30 a.m on the following Thursday).
So far, we have completed the works of the first three Azhwars, having chosen a sample of 16 verses each, from the total of 100 verses in each.
Verses from the next Azhwar, Thirumazhisai Azhwar's work, called 'Naanmugan Thiruvanthaadhi' are being telecast now. I propose to list the verses and give their meanings here as weekly posts, soon after each episode is telecast. (Each episode covers about 3 to 4 verses, commencing with commentary for the particular verse by Sri.Tha.Ku.Subramaniam, followed by the verse being rendered by me.)
I thought I would give in this post, a brief introduction to 'Divya Prabandham' and in the next post titled 'Divya Prabandam-Part 1',about the first three Azhwars' works:
INTRODUCTION:
Azhwar means "One who immerses himself". The Azhwars deeply immersed themselves in their devotion and Bhakti towards Lord Narayana. The Azhwars are reported to be incarnations of the weapons used by the Lord, like the Vanamaali, the Garuda, conch, mace, sword etc.
The wisdom of the Azhwars was the direct result of the Lord's divine grace and therefore called ' Divyam'. It is because of this that the works of the Azhwars are collectively called ' Divya Prabandham'.These are a set of 4000 poems (paasurams).
The Azhwar Pasurams are arranged as under:
1. Mudhalaayiram (1000)
* Periyaazhwar Thirumozhi:473
* Thiruppavai:30
* Naachiyar Thirumozhi:143
* Perumal Thirumozhi:105
* Thiruchchanda Virutham:120
* Thirumaalai:45
* Thiruppalli Ezhuchi:10
* Amalanaadhipiraan:10
* Kanni Nun Chiruthambu:11
Total:947
2.Irandamayiram (2000)
* Periya Thirumozhi:1084
* Thiruckurundhandagam:20
* Thiru Nedundhaandagam:30
Total:1134
3.Moondrayiram (3000)
* Thiruvai Mozhi:1102
Total:1102
4. Naalaamaayiram (4000)
* Mudhal Thiruvanthaadhi:100
* Irandam Thiruvanthaadhi:100
* Moondram Thiruvanthaadhi:100
* Naan Mugan Thiruvanthaadhi:96
* Thiruvirutham:100
* Thiruvaasiriyam:7
* Periya Tjorivamdhaadhi:87
* Thiru Ezhu Kootru Irukai:1
* Siriya Thirumadal:40
* Periya Thirumadal:78
* Iramanuja Nootrandhadhi:108
Total:817
Mudhalayiram(1st 1000): 947
Irandaayiram (2nd 1000): 1134
Moondrayiram(3rd 1000):1102
Naalaayiram( 4th 1000):817
Total: 4000
Poigai Azhwar, Budat Azhwar and Pey Azhwar are the first three Alwars ( Mudal Alwars).
They were contemporaries who were born in the same year, in the same month, in the same Suklapaksha on successive Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday respectively.
Poigai Azhwar is believed to be an incarnation of Paanchajanyam(the divine conch of Lord Vishnu,called Sanghu in Tamil). He appeared on the lotus bud in a pond (Poigai)in Tiruvekka near Kanchipuram.
Budat Azhwar, an incarnation of Kaumodhaki (the divine mace of Lord Vishnu) appeared in a Kurukkatti flower in Mahabalipuram, also near Kanchipuram where the Lord instead of reclining on his divine couch of Adisesha, reclines on the floor and hence is called ' Stala Sayana Perumal'.
Pey Azhwar, an incarnation of Nandaki (the divine sword of Lord Vishnu) appeared in a red lily flower (sevvalli) in the well of the temple of Adhikesava Perumal at Mylapore, Madras.
(To be continued in the next post...)
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