This is for the Grace which prompts, inspires, nudges, encourages and supports even when we falter in fear and diffidence. Impossible becomes possible, when He/She walks by your side. But yes, He/She being a tough task master, the sweat of your brow and dedication shall be his/her preferred offerings.
Sometimes, the journey seems so difficult, and you groan, looking at the mountain of pages left! Yet, day by day, the summit nears and the joy of reaching the summit is ineffable. Here is to more books, more translations, more words…
Bal Kanda Part 1 is over. At the juncture where Sage Yagyavalkya finishes one story of Sri Ram avatar and starts the next story connected to the divine Lord Sri Hari, the book decided to pause.
‘Nimitta mathram bhava Savyasachinah’, as the Gita exhorts. (Just be an instrument, Savyasachi!)
I am submitting Bal Kanda: Part 1, at my beloved Hanumanji’s lotus feet. This part ends with the Lord Sri Hari speaking about Sri Ram avatar to Raja Manu and his wife; answering their plea that He should be born as their son.
This book is dedicated to the memory of my late father R.S.Nair, who sagaciously nourished the love of languages in me.
Accha, still remember you praying with closed eyes, enraptured by the Lord.
With great love and respect, the Lord invited his wife to sit by his left side. With great joy, Devi Parvati seated herself next to her husband. She remembered her previous birth.
**
Pati hiyam hetu adhik anumani/ Bihasi Uma bolim priya bani//
Kadha jo sakal lok hitkari/ Soyi puchan chah sailkumari//
Knowing that her beloved loved her more than ever (compared to her previous birth as Sati), Parvati smiled and spoke sweetly. (Sage Yagyavalkya says that…) Parvati wished to enquire about that story whose narration benefits everyone of us.
**
Biswanath mam nadh purari/ Tribhuvan mahima bidit tumhari//
Char aru achar naag nar deva/ Sakal karahim pad pankaj seva//
‘Lord of the universe, my husband, the vanquisher of Tripurasura! All the three worlds are agig with your greatness. All beings which move or are static, serpents (Naag), humans and gods (deva) serve your lotus feet.’
**
Doha:
Prabhu samaradh sarbagya siv sakal kala guna dham/
Jog gyan bairagya nidhi pranat kalpataru nam//
‘Dear Lord, you are all capable, omniscient and the embodiment of auspiciousness and prosperity. You are the seating place of all good qualities and fine arts. You are the master of yoga, wisdom and detachment. Your name is the Kalpvriksha for all refugees who seek moksha.’
**
Jaum mo par prasann sukhrasi/ Jania satya mohi nij dasi//
Tau prabhu harahu mor agyana/ Kahi Raghunath kadha bidhi nana//
‘Dear Lord, giver of all joys, if you are pleased with me and know that I am your truthful servant (totally and utterly devoted), please tell me about the different stories of Sri Ramachandra and remove all my ignorance.’
**
Jasu bhavanu surtaru tar hoyi/ Sahi ki daridra janit dukhu soyi//
Sasibhushan as hriday bichari/ Harhu nadh mam mati bhram bhari//
‘When one’s house is in the shades of the Kalpvriksha, why should one suffer pangs of poverty? (When you, who know Sri Ramji’s story that removes all sins, are my husband, why should I stay in the dark?) The one who uses the moon as his adornment (Sasibhushan), please remove the heavy burden of my mind.’
**
Prabhu je muni paramaradhbadi/ Kahahim Ram kahu brahma anadi//
Ses sarada bedh purana/ Sakal karahim raghupati guna gana//
‘The sages who know of Para Brahma speak of Sri Ramji as ‘Anadi Brahma’, or the eternal Brahma. The revered Sesh Nag, Saraswati, Vedas and Puranas all hail the fine qualities of Raghunath!’
**
Tumh puni Ram Ram din rati/ Sadar japahu anang aarati///
Ramu so avadh nripati sut soyi/ Ki aj aguna alakhgati koyi//
‘Enemy of Kamdev! You reverently recite ‘Ram, Ram’, every moment of day and night too! Is this Ram the prince of Ayodhya? Or is it some other Ram who is beyond birth and death, transcends all qualities, and remains unperceivable?’
**
Doha:
Jaum nrip tanay ta brahma kimi naari birah mati bhori/
Dekhi charit mahima sunat bhramati buddhi ati mori//
‘If he is a royal prince, how can he be Brahma? If he is Brahma, why is he lamenting due to the loss of his wife? Looking at what’s happening in the world and hearing about his greatness elsewhere, I am lost and confused!’
(Note: The wisdom which Sati lacked, Parvati possesses. She seeks guidance from her Lord instead of setting out to find the truth of Sri Ramji by herself!)
Agya jaani ris ur jani dharahu/ Jehi bidhi moh mitai soyi karahu//
‘If the Brahma which is desireless, omnipresent and all powerful is different from Sri Ramji, then make me understand it, dear Lord! Do not get angry with me on my foolishness. Do that which will remove my ignorance.’
**
Mai ban deekhi Ram prabhutayi/ Atib hay bikal na tumhahi sunayi//
Tadapi malin mann bodhu na aava/ So phalu bhali bhanti hum paava//
‘In my previous birth, I had witnessed the greatness of Lord Ram. But being stricken with fear, I could not speak about it, my beloved! Even then my polluted mind did not learn the truth. I had to endure the fruits of that sin of mine.’
**
Ajahu kacchu samsavu mann morem/ Karahu kripa binavavu kar jorem//
Prabhu tab mohi bahu bhanti prabodha/ Nadh so samuchi karahu jani krodha//
‘There are doubts persisting in my mind even now. Please take compassion on me, I plead with folded hands. You tried to explain in many ways in the past, and I still did not understand. Dear Lord, please don’t get vexed with me.’
**
Tab kar as bimoh ab nahim/ Ramkadha par ruchi mann mahim//
‘I am not befuddled anymore; I yearn to listen to Sri Ramachandra’s story. Dear Lord of devas, who wears the Seshnag himself as an adornment, please narrate the pristine story of Sri Ramji’s great qualities.’
**
Doha:
Bandavu pad dhari dharni siru binay karavu kar jori/
‘I prostrate myself at your feet and beg with folded hands. Squeeze the essence of the Vedas and describe the pure radiance of Sri Ram’s glory.’
**
Jadapi joshita nahim adhikari/ Dasi mann kram bachan tumhari//
Gudavu tatwa na sadhu duravahim/ Aarat adhikari jah pavahim//
‘Though I don’t deserve to listen to the story, I am your devoted servant with my mind, words and deeds. When the sages discern deserving listeners, they don’t hide even the most cryptic of enigmas.’
**
Ati arathy puchavu suraraya/ Raghupati kadha kahahu kari daya//
Pradham so karan kahahu bichari/ Nirgun brahma sagun bapu dhari//
‘Dear Lord, I am beseeching you piteously, kindly tell me the story of Sri Ramji. First of all, explain why Nirgun Brahma (Brahma that has transcended qualities) has assumed the Sagun Roop (Guise of a manifestation with the finest qualities).’
Kahahu jadha Janaki bibahim/ Ram taja so dushan kahim//
‘Then my Lord, tell me the story of Rama’s avatar and about his childhood days. Then narrate the story of his marriage with Sita and the reason why he had to renounce his kingdom.’
**
Ban basi keenhe charit apara/ Kahahu nadh jimi ravan mara//
‘Lord, tell me about the great deeds of Sri Ramji during his stay in the forests and how he killed Ravan. Dear Lord Shanker, the incarnation of joy, then tell me about all the glorious actions of Raghunathji as he sat on the royal throne.’
**
Doha:
Bahuri kahahu karunayatan keenh jo acharaj Ram/
Praja sahit Raghubamsamani kimi gavane nij dham//
‘Dear Lord, tell me about the wondrous actions of SriRamji, how he and the citizens of his kingdom returned to Lord Vishnu’s abode.’
Bhagati gyan bigyan biragaa/ Puni sab barnahu sahit bibhagaa//
‘Lord, elucidate about that mystery in which wise sages remain immersed in meditation. Then explain about the differences between bhakti, wisdom, knowledge and detachment.’
**
Auravu Ram Rahasya aneka/ Kahahu nadh ati bimal bibeka//
Jo prabhu mai pucha nahim hoyi/ Sovu dayal rakhavu jani goyi//
‘Apart from these, tell me about the unknown secrets of Ramji’s avatar. Dear Lord, your wisdom is pristine, so tell me those nuances about which I am unaware. ‘( Kindly tell me about those aspects about which I have not asked you… )
**
Tumh Tribhuvan gur bedh bakhana/ Aan jeev pavar ka jana//
Prasn Uma kai sahaj suhayi/ Chal bihin suni siv mann bhayi//
‘The Vedas hail you as the guru of the three worlds! How can any other illiterate being know about these mysteries?’ Listening to Uma’s straight forward, simple and beautiful questions, Lord Shiva was pleased.
Jananim Uma boli tab leenhi/ Lai uchhang sundar sikh deenhi//
Lord Shiv mollified his mother-in-law affectionately. Maina bowed at the Lord’s feet and returned to her house. Then the mother called her daughter near, and seating her on the lap, provided beautiful advice.
**
Karehu sada sankar pad puja/ Naridharmu pati devu na duja//
Bachan kahat bhare lochan bari/ Bahuri layi ur leenhi kumari//
‘Dear Parvati, always be devoted to your husband (worship his lotus feet) and this is the wife’s dharma. For her, the spouse is the god and there is no other deity.’ Speaking lovingly, tears filled the mother’s eyes and she embraced her daughter close to her heart.
**
Kat bidhi srijim naari jag mahim/ Paradheen sapnehu sukhu nahim//
Bhai ati prem bikal mahtari/ Dheeraju keenh kusamay bichari//
(The mother lamented at the impending separation from her beloved daughter) ‘Why did the creator make women? There is no happiness even in dreams for she belongs to someone else.’ The mother lost her composure but slowly regained her poise, recognising that the time was not for mourning.
Sab narinh mili bheti bhavani/ Jayi Janani ur puni lapatani//
Maina was hugging Parvati and falling at her feet. The love cannot be expressed in words. After taking leave of all other women, Girija embraced her loving mother again.
**
Jananihi bahuri mili chali uchit asees sab kahu dayim/
Phiri Phiri bilokati matu tan tab sakhim lai siv pahim gayim//
Jachak sakal Santoshi sankaru uma sahit bhavan chale/
Sab amar harshe suman barshi nisan nabh baje bhale//
Parvati bid farewell to her mother and everybody showered blessings on her. She was often turning to take a backward glance at her mother. Her maids ushered her to Lord Shiva’s presence. The Lord benevolently gave the beggars whatever alms they needed and proceeded to Kailas with his wife and entourage. All the devatas started showering flowers and the sound of drums resounded ecstatically from the skies.
**
Doha:
Chale sangh himavantu tab pahuchavan ati hetu/
Bibidh bhanti paritoshu kari bida keenh brishketu//
King Himavan accompanied the couple. Then Lord Shiv very affectionately bid him farewell, making his heart glad in many ways.
**
Turat bhavan aaye girirayi/ Sakal sail sar liye bolayi//
Aadar daan binay bahumana/ Sab kar bida keenh himavana//
On returning to his palace, King Himavan called all the mountains and rivers to his side. With great reverence and humility, after giving gifts, with great respect, he bid farewell to all his guests.
**
Jabahim sambhu kailasahim aaye/ Sur sab nij nij lok sidhaye//
Jagat matu pitu sambhu bhavani/ Tehim singaru na kahavu bakhani//
When Lord Shiva reached his abode, all the gods returned to their own homes. Tulsidasji says, “Since Shiv and Parvati are the father and mother of the universe, I cannot explain the ways of their mutual love.”
**
Karahim bibidh bidhi boh bilasa/ Gananh samet basahim kailasa//
Har girija bihar nit nayavu/ Ehi bidhi bipul kaal chali gayavu//
Enjoying their great love for each other, and indulging in sensory pleasures, the young couple lived in Kailasa with the bhootgana. Everyday they would explore new nuances of love. Thus, time went by.
Aagam nigam prasiddh purana/ Shammukh janmu sakal jag jana//
The birth of Lord Shiva and Parvati’s son, Kartikeya took place. (Shanmukha, six faced one) He defeated Tarakasura in a ferocious battle as a young prince. Vedas, Sastras and Puranas describe his birth and the whole universe is familiar with the story.
**
Jagu jaan Shanmukh janmu karmu pratapu purushardhu maha/
Tehi hetu mai brishketu sut kar charit samchepahim kaha//
Yeh Uma sambhu bibahu je nar nari kahahim je gavahim/
Kalyan kaaj bibah mangal sarbada sukhu pavahim//
The universe is aware of the birth, actions, valour and great deeds (purushartha) of Kartikeya. So, Tulsidasji says, ‘I have told the story of Shiva’s son succinctly. The men and women who speak or sing about the glorious marriage of Shiv and Parvati shall be blessed with happy marital lives and prosperous events.’
**
Doha:
Charit sindhu Girija raman bedh na pavahim paru/
Barnai tulsidasu kimi ati matimand gavaru//
‘The story of Lord Shiva is as immense and vast like the ocean, which even the Vedas cannot cross. Now, how can an illiterate and mentally deficient Tulsidas ever claim to do it?’
**
Sambhu charit suni saras suhava/ Bharadwaj muni ati sukh pava//
Bahu lalasa kadha par baadi/ Nayananhi neeru romavali taadi//
Listening to Lord Shiva’s glorious and interesting story, sage Bharadwaj became delighted. His eagerness to listen to more of the divine story increased greatly. His eyes filled with tears and hair stood on end.
Aho dhanya tav janmu muneesa/ Tumhahi pran sam priya gaureesa//
Bharadwadji became overwhelmed with love and no words were escaping his mouth. Sage Yagyavalkya became pleased and said, ‘ Dear sage, you are truly blessed. For you, Gauri’s Lord Shiva is as beloved as your very life…’
**
Siv pad kamal jinhahi rati nahim/ Ramahi te sapnehu na sohahim//
Binu chal Biswanath pad nehu/ Ram bhagat kar lacchan ehu//
‘The one who is not devoted to Lord Shiva’s lotus feet, cannot be accepted by Sri Ramachandra even in his dreams. The sign of Sri Ram’s devotee is one who loves Lord Shiv with a pure heart.’
**
Siv sam ko raghupathy bratdhari/ Binu agh taji sati as inari//
Panu kari raghupathy bhagati dekhayi/ Ko siv sam ramahi priy bhayi//
‘Who is the one who has undertaken the devotion to Lord Ram better than Lord Shiva? He relinquished a woman like Sati, who had not committed any sin, and showcased his steady devotion to Lord Sri Ramachandra. Brother, is there anyone more beloved to Sri Ramji like Lord Shiva?’
Doha:
Pradhamahim mai kahi siv charit bucha marmu tumhar/
Suchi sevak tumh ram ke rahit samast bikar//
‘I know your deep sensitivity (Love for Lord Shiv), and that’s why you narrated the story of Lord Shiv first. You are pure hearted and an ardent devotee of Lord Sri Ramachandra.’
**
Mai jana tumhar guna seela/ Kahavu sunahu ab raghupathy leela//
Sunu muni aaju samagam torem/ Kahi na jayi jas sukhu mann morem//
‘I have discerned your nature and qualities. Now, listen, I will narrate Sri Ram’s story. Dear sage, the joy I feel on meeting you today, cannot be described.’
**
Ram charit ati amit muneesa/ Kahi na sakahim sat koti aheesa//
‘Dear sage, the story of Sri Ram is ineffable, and even one hundred Seshnag cannot narrate it completely. Even so, I remember Sri Ramachandra with the bow in his hand; the One who controls the flow of words (the One who inspires me).’
**
Sarad darunari sam swami/ Ramu sutradhar antarjami//
Jehi par kripa karahim janu jani/ Kabi ur ajir nachavahim bani//
Sri Ram, the omniscient, is the puppeteer who controls the thread which makes Devi Saraswati move (the one who controls the gift of words, is the Lord himself.) Knowing a poet as his devotee, the Lord takes compassion on him, and makes Saraswati dance inside the garden of his heart!
**
Pranavau soyi kripal raghunadha/ Barnau bisad tasu guna gadha//
Param ramya giribaru kailasu/ Sada jahan siv uma nivasu//
I am bowing before the ocean of compassion Sri Ramji and going to narrate the story of his pristine qualities. The mountain Kailas, where Lord Shiva and Uma reside, is great and extremely enchanting in its beauty.
On the mountain peak reside siddhas, saints, deva, kinnar and groups of monks. They are all elevated souls and serve Lord Shiva, the giver of all joys.
**
Hari har bimukh dharma rati nahim/ Te nar tah sapnehu nahim jahim//
Tehi giri par bat bitap bisala/ Nit nutan sundar sab kala//
The person who has turned away from Shiv and Vishnu (Har and Hari), who does not walk on the path of Dharma, can never approach Kailas even in his dreams. There is a majestic banyan tree on the pinnacle which remains eternally green and lush every season of the year.
Ek baar tehi tar prabhu gayavu/ Taru biloki ur ati sukhu bhayavu//
The breeze around is soothing, gentle and fragrant; and it is always cool. The tree under which Lord Shiv rests, about which the Vedas have sung, stands on the pinnacle. One day, Lord Shiv went near the tree and his heart was brimming over with happiness.
**
Nij kar daasi nagaripu chhala/ Baide sahajahim sambhu kripala//
Kund indu dar gaur sareera/ Bhuj pralamb paridhan municheera//
After spreading the tiger skin underneath the tree, Lord Shiv seated himself. His body shimmered like kund pushpa (jasmines), the moon and the conch shell. His long arms were arresting in sight, and his attire was vatkal ( from bark of trees ), which the mendicants wear.
**
Tarun arun ambuj sam charna/ Nakh duti bhagat hriday tam harna//
His feet resembled newly blossomed lotus flowers, and the glimmer of his nails conquered all darkness in the hearts of devotees. Serpents and ashes were his adornments; Lord Shiv, the one who is also known as Tripurari ( One interpretation says : He who destroyed three cities of demons with a single arrow; Tripurantaka. Another says, He who killed Tripurasur), the radiance of his face defeated the beauty of the autumnal full moon !
**
Doha:
Jata mukut sursarit sir lochan nalin bisaal/
Neelkanth lavanyanidhi soh balbidhu bhaal//
His hair was knotted in the crown from which divine Ganga flowed. His eyes were big, shaped like lotus petals. The Lord’s throat was blue ( He is the blue necked one, having swallowed the bitter venom, Kalkoot/Halahal to protect the universe during the churning of the milky oceans), and He is the embodiment of beauty. The new crescent moon shone resplendent on his forehead.
How was Lord Shiv ( the enemy of Kamdev) looking, seated thus? He was the incarnation of serenity itself! Perceiving it was an auspicious time, Devi Parvati approached her husband.
Seeing Queen Main’s agony, all the women were stricken with grief. Remembering the loving nature of her beautiful daughter, Maina was weeping and lamenting thus…
**
Narad kar mai kah bigara/ Bhavanu mor jinh basat ujara//
As upadesu Umahi jinh deenha/ Baure barhi laagi tapu keenhu//
‘What harm had I ever done to Narad that he has ended up destroying my home? Listening to his advice, Parvati performed penance to gain such a lunatic husband!’
**
Sachehu unh kem moh na maya/ Udaseen dhamu dhamu na jaya//
Par ghar khalak laaj na bheera/ Baach ki jaan prasav kai peera//
‘In truth, Narad has no desire for anything, no illusions, no money, no house, no wife; he is the most indifferent and laid-back. That is why he decided to shake the foundation of somebody else’s home! Afterall, how shall a barren woman know the pain of giving birth?’
**
Jananihi bikal biloki bhavani/ Boli jut bibek mridu bani//
As bichari sochahi mati mata/ So na tarayi jo rachayi bidhata//
Seeing her extremely distressed mother, Parvati spoke pleasing, soothing words. ‘ Dear mother, whatever destiny has in store, it cannot be stopped. So, stop worrying so much.’
**
Karam likha jaum bavur nahu/ Tau kat dosu lahayiya kahu//
Tumh san mitahim ki bidhi ke anka/ Matu byardh jani lehu kalanka//
‘If a crazy husband is written in my destiny, why blame someone else for it? Can you rewrite whatever the creator has written?
So, let us not accuse anybody and cause that stain in the character.
**
Jani lehu matu kalanku karuna pariharahu avasar nahim/
Dukhu sukhu jo likha lillar hamare jab jah pavub tahim//
Suni Uma bachan bineet komal sakal abala sochahim/
‘My dear mother, let us not blame anyone, leave aside this grieving, this is not the time to be sad. Whatever happiness and misery is written in my fate, I shall receive them wherever I go.’ On listening to Paravati’s sweet and consoling words, all the women started brooding and censuring the creator’s act, started shedding tears.
**
Doha:
Tehi avasar narad sahit aru rishi sapt samet/
Samachar suni tuhingiri gavane turat niket//
King Himavan took Naradji and the Saptarishi home as soon he heard of the news.
Mayana satya sunahi mam bani/ Jagadamba tav suta Bhavani//
Then Narad narrated the story of Parvati’s previous incarnation (Sati’s story) and said, ‘Maina, listen to the truth. Your daughter is the ‘Mother of the Universe, Bhavani’ herself.’
**
Aja anadi sakti abinasini/ Sada Sambu ardhang nivasini//
Jag sambhav palan laya karini/ Nij iccha leela bapu dharini//
‘She is indestructible Shakti without birth or death. She is the ardhangini of Shiva and will remain an inseparable part of Him. She is the one who creates, maintains and destroys the universe. She assumes any physical form based on her wishes.’
**
Janamim pradham dacch grih jayi/ Namu Sati sundar tanu payi//
Tahahu Sati Sankarahi bibahim/ Kadha prasiddh sakal jag mahim//
‘She was born in King Daksha Prajapati’s home first. Her name was Sati then and was extremely beautiful. Sati married Shiva. The whole world knows this story.’
**
Ek bar aavat Siv sanga/ Dekhevu raghukul kamal patanga//
Bhayavu mohu Siv kaha na keenha/ Bhram bas beshu Siy kar leenha//
‘Once Sati , when she was with her husband, saw the sun of (lotus) Raghukul clan, Sri Ramachandra himself. She got confused by Maya and disregarding Shiva’s warning, assumed Sita’s guise (to test Sri Ramachandra).’
**
Siya beshu Satim jo keenh tehim aparadh Sankar pariharim/
Har birah jayi bahori pitu kem jagya joganal jarim//
Ab janami tumhare bhavan nij pati laagi darun tapu kiya
As jani samsay tajahu Girija sarbada Sankapriya//
‘For the sin of assuming the physical form of Sita, Lord Shiva rejected Sati. Burning with the pain of separation from her beloved, she went to attend her father Daksha’s yagna and burnt herself to ashes in the sacrificial pyre. Now Jagadamba has taken birth in your home as Girija and did excruciating penance for acquiring Shiva as husband again. So discard all apprehensions, Parvati has always been Shiva’s beloved.’
Listening to Sage Narad’s words, all grief was driven away and in a matter of moments, the good news spread across the city.
**
Tab maina himavantu anande/ Puni puni parbati pad bande//
Nari purush sisu juba sayane/ Nagar log sab ati harshane//
Maina and Himavan were overwhelmed with joy and were bowing at Parvati’s feet again and again. The women, men, children, youth and old folk of the city were delirious with joy.
**
Lage hon pur mangal gaana/ Saje sabahim hatak ghat nana//
Bhanti anek bhayi jevnara/ Supsastra jas kacchu byavahara//
The city resounded with auspicious songs and everyone started decorating the golden pots for worship. As per the dictates of the art of cooking, many kitchens were being readied.
**
So jevnar ki jayi bakhani/ Basahim bhavan jehim matu bhavani//
Sadar bole sakal barati/ Bishnu biranchi dev sab jati//
How can the greatness of the food be described, when the Mother Goddess herself dwells in that home? Himavan reverently invited Lord Vishnu, Brahma and all other devas.
**
Bibidh panti baidi jevnara/ Lage parusan nipun suaara//
Naribrind sur jewat jani/ Lagim den gaarim mridu bani//
There were many rows of guests seated to have the feast. Talented cooks started preparing the food. Groups of women started teasing sweetly knowing that the devas were having food.
Bhojanu karahim sur ati bilambu binodu suni sachu pavahim//
Jewat jo badyo anandu so much kotihu na parai kahyo/
Achavayi deenhe paan gavne baas jah jaako rahyo//
The beautiful women were mocking sweetly and hinting at innuendos. The devas were relishing their teasing and so were taking a long time in finishing their repast. The joy of enjoying the feast was so great that hundred lakh ( crore) tongues cannot do justice in describing the experience! After the feast and ablutions, everyone was served with paan. Then the guests dispersed to their dwelling places.
**
Doha:
Bahuri muninh himavant kahu lagan sunayi aayi/
Samay biloki bibah kar padaye dev bolayi//
The sages returned to show the wedding time (lagn patrika) to Himavan and at the due time for the auspicious function, called the devas.
**
Boli sakal sur sadar leenhe/ Sabahi jadhochit aasan deenhe//
All the devas were invited respectfully and seated with due diligence. The pandal was decorated as per Vedic rites and the women were singing soulful, auspicious songs.
**
Singhasanu ati dibya suhava/ Jayi na barni biranchi banava//
There was a stunning throne on the stage, which was made by Brahma himself. Its beauty was incomparable. Bowing his head and showing respect to the elevated souls, bearing Sri Ramji in his heart, Lord Shiva was seated therein.
**
Bahuri munisanh uma bolayi/ Kari singaru sakhim lai aayi//
Dekhat roopu sakal sur mohe/ Barnai chhabi as jag kabi ko hai//
The sages asked that Parvati be ushered inside. The maids got the princess ready and brought her inside. She was so lovely that every deva was enchanted at her sight. Is there a poet in this universe who can describe the gorgeous Girija?
**
Jagadambika jaani bhav Bhama/ Suranh manahim mann keenh pranama//
Sundarata marjad bhavani/ Jaayi na kotihu badan bakhani//
Knowing that they were seeing the ‘Mother of the Universe’, the consort of Lord Shiva, all the devas were reverently worshipping her in their hearts. Parvati’s beauty was so great ( the ultimate) that not even with a crore tongue could that glory be described.
**
Kotihu badan nahim banai barnat jag Janani sobha maha/
Avaloki sakahim na sakuch pati pad kamal manu madhukaru taha//
Even from one crore faces, the radiance of Parvati (Mother of the Universe) cannot be elucidated. When the Vedas, Seshnag and Goddess Saraswati cannot do justice to her beauty, where does the mentally backward Tulsidas stand a chance? The embodiment of beauty and radiance, Girija proceeded to the middle of the mandal, where Lord Shiva sat. Since she felt extremely shy, Parvati did not dare to look at her bridegroom’s lotus feet; however the honey bees of her mind were buzzing nearby those lotus flowers.
**
Doha:
Muni anusasan ganapatihi pujehu sambhu bhavani/
Kovu suni samsay karai jani sur anadi jiya jani//
Following the instructions of the sages, Shiv and Parvati did the worship of Ganpati first of all. Let not any doubt arise in any mind on hearing this fact, please know that there is no origin for the gods.
(Note: Remove the doubt that Ganpati is the son of Shiva and Parvati, where did he appear from at the time of their wedding?)
**
Jasi bibah kai bidhi shruti gaayi/ Mahamuninh so sab karvayi//
Gahi girees kus kanya pani/ Bhavahi samarpim jaani bhavani//
Following all the rites of marriages enunciated in the Vedas, the sages conducted the wedding. With kush grass in hand, King Himavan bestowed his daughter’s hand to Lord Shiv, knowing that she was the ardhangini, the better half of the Lord.
Bedmantra munibar uccharahim/ Jay jay jay sankar sur karahim//
When Lord Shiv took Parvati’s hand (panigrahan), all the gods, Indra and other devas found their hearts filled with delight. The evolved sages started reciting the shlokas of Vedas and the devas started hailing Lord Shiva enthusiastically.
Har Girija kar bhayavu bibahu/ Sakal bhuvan bhari raha uchahu//
A panoply of musical instruments started playing. Different varieties of flowers were showering from the skies. The marriage of Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati became a reality and the whole of the Brahmand, ( all the universes created by Brahma) became enthralled with joy
**
Dasim das Turag radh nagaa/ Dhenu basan mani bastu bibhaaga//
Ann kanakbhajan bhari jana/ Dayij deenh na jayi bakhana//
Maid servants, male servants, horses, chariots, cows, clothes, precious stones , rice, golden vessels, and many other gifts were laden in many vehicles as Parvati’s dowry; and describing those is not possible.
**
Dayij diyo bahu bhanti puni kar jori himbhutar kaho//
Ka devu purankam sankar charan pankaj gahi raho//
Siva kripasagar sasur kar santhoshu sab bhantihi kiyo/
Puni gahe pad padhoj mayana prem paripuran hiyo//
After showering the couple with many gifts, and folding his hands respectfully King Himavan said, ‘Lord Shiva, you are the fulfiller of all wishes, what can I give you?’ He prostrated himself at the Lord’s feet and the Lord, ocean of compassion, consoled his father-in-law in many ways. Queen Maina, her heart overwhelmed with love, clutched at the Lord’s lotus feet.
** Doha:
Nadh Uma mam pran sam grihkinkari karehu/
Chamehu sakal aparadh ab hoyi prasann baru dehu// ‘ Dear Lord, my daughter Uma is as beloved to me like my very life breath! Make her your life companion (Sah-dharmini, who walks with you every step devotedly) and forgive all her mistakes. Give me this blessing with joy.’
There are infinite, parallel worlds which are unseen by mortal eyes. The ones who know the key to the ciphers, open the doors, and walk in. Welcome to a new, marvellous world of ineffable joy. These worlds are not the ones accessible through drugs, alcohol or any intoxicating substances. Yes, I remember the Oliver Stone movie, ‘The Doors”, and the original William Blake reference which inspired the rockband.
“If the doors of perception were cleansed every thing would appear to man as it is, Infinite. For man has closed himself up, till he sees all things thro’ narrow chinks of his cavern.”
I speak of invisible threads connecting the worlds of knowledge: art, poetry, prose, plays, books, movies, sculpture, languages, dance, running, theatre, science….keep adding ad infinitum. These are portals to worlds filled with great joy, and often run into hall ways where others who walked in through different doors meet one another.
For example, you read about Francoise Gilot, the only woman who walked away from Picasso (his women either committed suicide or suffered mental breakdowns…( Ahem, classic Bluebeard who killed off their independent spirits!) and then discover that she was a very evolved woman, successful as an artist, and led a happy life with the great scientist Jonas Salk.
One might read her book ‘Living with Picasso’ or watch the Merchant Ivory movie ‘Surviving Picasso’ (starring Anthony Hopkins as the eponymous artist) and end up in the ‘hallway’ to just sit and sigh over human lives! Only few, very few ‘get you’ and what a joy to spend time discussing the whole world of art and its peccadilloes!
Somebody who walked in through the door called ‘Swedish cinema’ ( to which you did not have the key of the cipher) might gently hint at ‘Liv and Ingmar’: a seemingly parallel story of two great creative souls and their lives together. Liv Ulmann the brilliant actress and Ingmar Bergman, the great Swedish director. Were all creative geniuses troublesome when it came to relationships? Wasn’t the documentary great? How beautiful Liv is, and how compassionate and spiritual are her ruminations over her deep friendship with Ingmar Bergman.
Maybe, another would suggest, from behind his newspapers, having come in through the door called Urdu literature , Irish or Arab literature (imagine the hall way to be populated by human beings from different times and lands and languages that even the Tower of Babel couldn’t conceive….), that one should most definitely read ‘The magic lantern’ and then compare the director’s childhood with that of both Satyajit Ray and Akira Kurosawa. And yes, do read Kurosawa’s ‘Something like an autobiography’. All of them were super sentitive to sights, smells, lights and shade, and subtle nuances of life earlier on…
‘Contentment’ is a strange lady. She is far more finicky than the elegant woman called, ‘Happiness’. But there are human beings who woo the former, because the latter comes closely at her heels more often than not. And every day, every moment, someone is trying a key to unlock another door and reach the hallway where the human souls meet.
Let us teach the secrets of the cipher to our children earlier on in life. So then, they will realize, that life has secrets more tantalizing than the visible circus that often passes of in its name. And all it costs, is the strength of the human spirit and the willingness to learn. It will make us kinder, humbler, more tolerant and aware of the esential oneness of humanity. We get to see beyond what the ‘powers that be’ want us to believe all across the world. We discover truths for our own selves.
As a start, let us read C.S.Lewis’s essays….Ah, man, he was the master keysmith! Following his footsteps, one ends up in dazzling worlds.
The universe was wrapped in horror. The devas were grief stricken while the demons rejoiced. The sensual folk maundered about losing physical pleasures while the sages became steady and spotless in their minds.
**
Jogi akatank bhaye pati gati sunat rati murchit bhayi/
The minds of the saints were focussed. Kamdev’s wife Rati fainted on hearing about her husband’s death. Shrieking and lamenting, Rati reached Lord Shiv’s side. She stood with folded hands, beseeching for her lost love. Lord Shiva, quick to be pleased, took pity on the helpless woman and spoke consolingly to her.
**
Doha:
Ab tem rati tav nadh kar hoyihi naam anangu/
Binu bapu byapihi sabahi puni sunu nij milan prasangu//
‘Hey Rati, your husband shall be known as Anang (Formless) from now on. Without corporeal (physical)presence, he will encompass everyone. Now listen, I will narrate how you’ll meet him again.’
**
Jab jadubans krishn avatara/ Hoyihi haran maha mahibhara//
Krishn tanay hoyihi pati tora/ Bachanu anyadha hoyi na mora//
When Lord Vishnu assumes Krishna avatar, born in Yadu clan, to lighten the burden of earth, then your husband Kamdev will be reborn as his son. My words shall not be in vain.’
**
Rati gavani suni sankar bani/ Kadha apar ab kahavu bakhani//
Devanh samachar sab paye/ Brahmadik baikund sidhaye//
Rati listened to Lord Shiva’s words and left the place. Now, I will narrate another story in detail. After observing the unfolding events, Brahma and the other gods went to meet Lord Vishnu at Vaikunda.
**
Sab sur Bishnu biranchi sameta/ Gaye jaham Siv kripaniketa//
Along with Vishnu and Brahma, the devas then proceeded to the compassionate Lord Shiv’s place of prayer. When they sang paeans in his praise, Lord became pleased.
Kah bidhi tumh prabhu antarjami/ Tadapi bhagati bas binavavu swami//
Lord Shiv, ocean of compassion, spoke: ‘Tell me devas, what is the purpose of your visit?’ Then Brahmaji replied, ‘Lord, you are omniscient, yet due to my devotion towards you, let me place my supplication before you.’
**
Doha:
Sakal suranh ke hriday as sankar param uchahu/
Nij nayananhi dekha chahahim nadh tumhar bibahu//
‘ Lord, all the devas are overwhelmed with eagerness to witness your marriage.’
Kamu jari rati kahu baru deenha/ Kripsindhu yeh ati bhal keenha//
The vanquisher of Kamdev’s hubris, do something so that everyone can delightedly see this great festival (of your holy marriage). The kind boon you have bestowed on Devi Rati after burning Kamdev to ashes, is very benevolent.
**
Sasati kari puni karahim pasavu/ Nadh prabhunh kar sahaj subhavu//
Parbatim tapu keenh apara/ Karahu tasu ab angeekara//
‘Hey Lord, it is in the nature of great masters that they first punish you for your sins but then shower compassion. Parvati has undertaken intense penance for you, please accept her now.’
Tab devanh dundhubhi bajayi/ Barshi suman jay jay sur sayi//
Listening to Brahma’s request, the Lord remembered what Sri Ramji had told him and spoke, ‘Let it be so!’ The devas delightedly started beating the dundhubhi (drums) and showering flowers. The atmosphere resounded with their gleeful cries: ‘May the Lord of the devas be ever glorious, ever victorious…!’
**
Avasaru jaani saptarishi aaye/ Turantahim bidhi giribhavan padaye//
At the opportune time, the Saptarishi arrived, and Brahmaji sent the seven sages to Himavan’s palace. They first visited Parvati and spoke to her in deceptive, teasing tones.
**
Doha:
Kaha hamar na sunehu tab narad kem upades/
Ab bha chhut tumhar pan jarevu kaamu mahes//
‘Well, listening to Narad’s words, you discarded our advice. Now your oath has become futile, because Shiva has burnt Kamdev himself to ashes!’
Tumhare jaan kaamu ab jara/ Ab lagi sambhu rahe sabikara//
On hearing their mockery, Parvati spoke smilingly, ‘ Oh, learned sages, you spoke befittingly indeed! In your perspective, Shiva has burned Kamdev recently, until now, he was fully in the grip of desires!’
**
Hamarem jaan sada siv jogi/ Aj anavadhya akaam abhogi//
Jaum mai siv seye as jani/ Preeti samet karm mann bani//
‘In my view, Lord Shiva has always been a yogi, without birth or death, detached and devoid of desires. I have lovingly devoted myself to him with my mind, words and deeds.’
**
Tau hamar pan sunahu muneesa/ Karihahim satya kripanidhi eesa//
Tumh jo kaha har jarevu mara/ Soyi ati badh abibeku tumhara//
‘ The compassionate Lord will ensure my oath becomes true! The words you spoke about Shiva burning Kamdev to cinders is due to your lack of understanding.’
**
Taat anal kar sahaj subhavu/ Him tehi nikat jayi nahim kavu//
Gayem sameep so avasi nasayi/ Asi manmadh mahes ki nayi//
‘It is in the innate nature of fire that snow cannot approach it, or else it will vanish without a trace. What occurred between Lord Shiva and Kamdev has to be comprehended accordingly.’
After hearing Parvati’s sagacious words, the sages were impressed by her deep love and faith towards Lord Shiva. They bowed to her and proceeded to meet Himavan.
Lage kahan harikadha rasala/ Dacch prajes bhaye tehi kala//
Dekha bidhi bichari sab layak/ Dacchahi keenh prajapati nayak//
Lord Shiv started narrating very interesting stories of Sri Hari. At that time, Brahma ji venerated Daksha as the Lord of all Prajapati.
**
Badd adhikar dacch jab pava/ Ati abhimanu hridayam tab aava//
Nahim kovu as janma jag mahim/ Prabhuta payi jaahi mad nahim//
When he received such an elevated stature and power, Daksha became very vain. Everybody born in the mortal world, becomes conceited on being elevated to high powers.
**
Doha:
Dacch liye muni boli sab karan lage badh jaag/
Nevate sadar sakal sur je pavat makh bhaag//
Daksha invited all sages and started a huge yagna. Daksha sent invitations to all devatas to attend his grand sacrificial rites.
**
Kinnar nag siddh gandharba/ Bandhunh samet chale sur sarba//
Bishnu biranchi mahesu bihayi/ Chale sakal sur jaan banayi//
Receiving Daksha’s invitation, kinnar, naag, siddhas, gandharvas travelled to his place with their consorts. Except Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva, the rest of the gods moved in their divine vehicles towards Daksha’s home.
Sur Sundari karahim kal gaana/ Sunat Shravan chootahim muni dhyana//
Sati observed that many beautiful air-borne vehicles were flying overhead. Lovely women were singing melodious songs which were disturbing the meditation of sages.
**
Puchevu tab siv kahevu bakhani/ Pita jagya suni kuch harshani//
Jaum mahesu mohi ayasu dehim/ Kacchu din jayi rahaum mis ehim//
When she asked Lord Shiv about the vehicles, he told her about Daksha’s yagna. Sati brightened up on hearing about her father’s grand yagna. She thought that if her husband permitted her, she could visit her father for a few days.
**
Pati parityag hridayam dukhu bhari/ Kahayi na nij aparadh bichari//
Boli sati Manohar bani/ Bhay sankoch prem ras sani//
Sati’s heart was overburdened by Shivaji’s rejection of her as a wife but understanding her own mistake, she never spoke about it. Now Sati spoke sweetly, with hesitation and fear, but with her heart full of love.
**
Doha:
Pita bhawan utsav jaum prabhu ayasu hoyi/
Tau mai javu kripayatan sadar dekhan soyi//
‘Lord, my father is having a big celebration at home. If you kindly permit me, I would like to respectfully pay a visit to my home.’
**
Kahehun eek morehu mann bhava/ Yeh anuchit nahim navet padava//
Lord Shiv spoke, ‘Even I like what you just said. However, your father, Daksha Prajapati, has not sent us any invitation. He invited all his daughters but intentionally forgot you due to his enmity with me.’
**
Brahmasabha hum san dukhu mana/ Tehi tem ajahu karahi apamana//
Jaum binu bolem jahu Bhawani/ Rahayi na seelu sanehu na kani//
‘ Once he got annoyed with me at a congregation in Brahma’s place. He continues to humiliate me even till today due to that. Bhawani, if you attend the function without an invitation, do not expect any loving welcome or respectful manners.’
**
Jadapi mitra prabhu pitu gur geha/ Jayiya binu bolehu na sandeha//
Tadapi birodh maan jah koyi/ Taham gaye kalyanu na hoyi//
‘Though it is said that one can unhesitatingly visit the homes of one’s master, friend, father and guru without any invitation, going to a place where there is hostility, will not lead to pleasant experiences.’
**
Bhanti anek sambhu samuchava/ Bhavi bas na gyanu ur aava//
Though Lord Shiv tried to persuade Sati, she was adamant and did not appreciate his views. Then Lord Shiv said, ‘If you go without being invited, it is not a good step in my view.’
**
Doha:
Kahi dekha har jatan bahu rahayi na Dacchkumari/
Diye mukhya gan sangh tab bida keenh Tripurari//
Despite the Lord’s multiple attempts to prevent Sati from going, when she insisted obstinately, the Lord send her to her father’s palace along with his main courtiers.
**
Pita bhavan jab gayim Bhawani/ Dacch tras kahu na sanmani//
Sadar bhalehi mili ek mata/ Bhaginim milim bahut musukata//
When Sati reached her father’s place, nobody welcomed her because of Daksha’s terror. Her mother met her respectfully and her sisters smilingly welcomed her.
**
Dacch na kacchu poochi kuslata/ Satihi biloki jare sab gaata//
Satim jayi dekhevu tab jagaa/ Katahu na deekh Sambhu kar bhagaa//
Daksha did not meet her or ask her about her well-being, instead he was incensed at her sight. When Sati proceeded to observe the yagna rites, she could not see Lord Shiv’s portion anywhere.
**
Tab chit chadevu jo Sankar kahevu/ Prabhu apmanu samuchi ur dahevu//
Pachhil dukhu na hridayam as byapa/ Jas yah bhayavu maha paritapa//
It was then that Sati realized the wisdom of Lord Shiva’s words. Finding her husband humiliated, her heart burned with fury and shame. The pain she endured due to her husband ignoring her was lesser compared to this anguish; when her beloved husband was being humiliated.
**
Jadapi jag darun dukh nana/ Sab tem kadin jati avamana//
Samuchi so Satihi bhayavu ati krodha/ Bahu bidhi jananim keenh prabodha//
Though there are many matters which trigger deep anguish in this world of ours, humiliation due to one’s identity/clan is the worst. Sati was burning in fury. Her mother tried in multiple ways to mollify and placate her.
**
Doha:
Siv apamanu na jayi sahi hridayam na hoyi prabodh/
Sakal sabahi hadi hataki tab boli bachan sakrodh//
Yet, Sati could not bring herself to accept the disgraceful humiliation to her Lord. She spoke in front of the full congregation, in fury, rebuking them for such behaviour.
So phalu turat lahab sab kahu/ Bhali bhanti pacchitab pitahu//
‘All the courtiers and sages present here! All who participated in (spoke or listened ) Lord Shiva’s humiliation, you shall garner the fruits very soon. My father Daksha too shall reap the results soon enough!’
**
Sant Sambhu Sripati apabada/ Sunia jaham taham asi marjada//
Kattiya tasu jeebh jo basayi/ Sharavn moodi na ta chaliya parayi//
‘Wherever the sages, Lord Shiv or Lord Vishnu are humiliated, one has to cut off the tongues or run away from there with one’s ears tightly shut!’
**
Jagadatma Mahesu purari/ Jagat janak sab ke hitkari//
Lord Shiv who killed the Asura Tripur, is the soul of the universe. He is the father of earth and well wisher of everybody. Daksha, my ignorant father, humiliates such a great one. My body has sprung from Daksha’s own.
**
Tajihavu turat deh tehi hetu/ Ur dhari Chandramauli brishketu//
As kahi jog agni tanu jara/ Bhayavu sakal makh hahakara//
‘I am relinquishing this body of mine now, and am holding Lord Shiv’a glorious form, resplendent with moon on his tresses, close to my heart.’ Sati jumped into the sacrificial fire and turned into ashes. The whole yagyasala, where the rituals were being conducted, filled with shouts of horror.
**
Doha;
Sati maranu suni Sambhu gan lage karan makh khees/
The bhootgana of Lord Shiv, getting to know about Sati’s death, started wreaking havoc on the pandal. Sage Bhrigu had to intervene to protect the sacrificial pyre.
**
Samachar sab Sankar paye/ Birbhadra kari kop padaye/
When Lord Shiv got to know about the incident, in his fury he created Virbhadra, who proceeded to Daksha’s place. He destroyed the sacrificial pandal and taught all those present there a lesson.
**
Bhai jagabidhit Dacch gati soyi/ Jasi kacchu Sambhu bimukh hai hoyi//
Yeh itihas sakal jag jani/ Tate mai samchep bakhani//
Whatever inevitable end happens to any foe of Shiva happened to Daksha also. ( He became famous for his horrible ending.) The whole world knows this story, and I have summarised it in my narrative.
**
Satim marat Hari san baru magaa/ Janam Janam Siv pad anuragaa//
As she died, Sati has sought a boon from Lord Vishnu that her heart stayed devoted to Lord Shiv in all her births. That’s why she was graced to be reborn as Himavan’s daughter Parvati.
**
Jab tem Uma sail grih jayim/ Sakal siddhi sampati tah chayim//
Jah tah muninh suashram keenhe/ Uchit baas him bhudhar deenhe//
From the moment of Uma’s birth, the whole kingdom became resplendent with multiple graces and prosperity. The sages came to build their ashrams and King Himavan generously allowed them land for the purpose.
Kahi na sakat kacchu ati gambhira/ Prabhu prabhavu janat matidhira//
Lakshaman saw Devi Sati in Sita’s form and felt trepidation rising in his heart.He was dumbstruck and could not utter a word. The prince, firm of mind, knew the glory of his brother Sri Ramachandra.
**
Sati kapatu janevu surswami/ Sabdarsy sab antarjami//
Satiji was trying to deceive the all-knowing Lord himself; she was showcasing the peculiarities of woman’s nature! Mulling over the power of his own maya, Lord Ram smilingly said …
**
Jori pani prabhu keenh pranamu/ Pita samet leenh nij namu//
First, Lord Ram joined his hands together and reverently wished Satiji. Then he introduced himself, including the name of his father. Then he asked ‘Where is Lord Shiva? And why are you wandering through these forests all by yourself?’
Doha:
Ram bachan mridu gudh suni upaja ati sankochu/
Sati sabhit mahes pahim chalim hridayam badh sochu//
Listening to Sri Ramji’s pleasant and mysterious words, Devi Sati became very perturbed. Terrified, she decided to return to Lord Shiva, her mind caught in deep anxiety.
**
Mai Sankar kar kaha na mana/ Nij agyanu Ram par aana//
Jayi utaru ab dehavu kaha/ Ur upaja ati darun daha//
‘I did not listen to my Lord Shiva and alleged that Sri Ramachandra was a mere human due to my ignorance. What answer shall I give Lord Shiv now?’ Brooding thus, Satiji felt herself burning due to great worry.
**
Jana Ram Satim dukhu pava/ Nij prabhavu kacchu pragati janava//
Lord Ram understood that Devi Sati was unhappy and so conjured an enchantment to enlighten her about his true nature. Sati saw the Lord, accompanied by Sita and Lakshman walking through the forest.
**
Phiri chitva pachem prabhu dekha/ Sahit bandhu siya sundar besha//
When Sati turned to take a backward glance, there was the Lord, again with Janakiji and his brother Lakshman! Wherever she turned, Satiji saw the resplendent Lord, with his wife and brother, served by many devoted sages.
**
Dekhe siv bidhi Bishnu aneka/ Amit prabhavu ek tem eka//
Bandat charan karat prabhu sewa/ Bibidhi besh dekhe sab deva//
Satiji saw innumerable Shiv, Brahma and Vishnu who were stunning in their glory. There were beautifully dressed devas who were reverently bowing at the feet of the beautiful Lord Ram.
**
Doha:
Sati bidhatri indira dekhim amit anoop/
Jehim jehim besh ajadi sur tehi tehi tan anuroop//
Devi saw countless Sati, Brahmani and Lakshmi. In whichever form Brahma and other celestial gods were present, their Shakti equivalent (feminine powers) also manifested with them.
**
Dekhe jah tah Raghupati jete/ Saktinh sahit sakal sur tete//
Jeev charachar jo samsara/ Dekhe sakal anek prakara//
Wherever Sati saw Lord Rama, the Lord was surrounded by these countless forms of gods and goddesses. She saw all the living and non-living entities on the universe in multiple forms.
**
Soyi Raghubar soyi Lacchimanu Sita/ Dekhi Sati ati bhayi sabhita//
Hriday kamp tan sudhi kacchu nahim/ Nayan mudi baidi mag mahim//
Wherever she cast her eyes, the same beautiful manifestations of Lord Ram, Janakiji and Lakshman! Sati became terrified. Her body started trembling and all control over the senses seemed to be getting lost. Closing her eyes, Sati sat down on the path.
**
Bahuri bilokevu nayan ukhari/ Kacchu na deekh tah dacchkumari//
When she opened her eyes, the daughter of Daksha, could see nothing. Bowing her head before Lord Ram (in her mind) she returned to Lord Shiva.
**
Doha:
Gayim samip Mahes tab hasi puchi kusalat/
Leenh pareecha kavan bidhi kahahu satya sab baat//
When Sati reached Lord Shiva’s side, he laughed and asked her to explain how she tried to test Sri Ramachandra.
**
Satim samuchi Raghubir prabhavu/ Bhay bas Siv san keenh duravu//
Kacchu na pareecha leenh gosayi/ Keenh pranamu tumharihu nayi//
Having been stunned by the glories of Lord Ram, petrified, Sati hid the truth from Lord Shiva. She said, ‘Hey Lord, I did not attempt any test. I just paid him my respects like you.’
**
Jo tumh kaha so mrisha na hoyi/ Morem mann prateeti ati soyi//
(Sati said) ‘What you pronounce shall never be wrong. I am very confident of that fact.’ Then Lord Shiv meditated and through his inner eyes watched whatever had transpired and how Sati had behaved.
Hari iccha bhavi balwana/ Hridayam bicharat Sambhu sujana//
Lord Shiv bowed before Sri Hari’s Maya which made even Devi Sati utter lies. The Lord contemplated that the power of Sri Hari to assume any form was so great.
**
Satim keenh Sita kar besha/ Siv ur bhayavu bishad bisesha//
Jaum ab karavu Sati san preeti/ Mitayi bhagati padhu hoyi aneeti//
Knowing that Satiji assumed the guise of Sita herself, Lord Shiv felt very sad. He felt that if he continued to love Sati, it shall cause the path of Bhakti to end and usher injustice.
**
Doha:
Param puneet na jayi taji kiyem prem badh papu/
Pragati na kahat mahesu kacchu hridayam adhik santapu//
(The Lord thought) ‘Sati is very pure and I cannot leave her. But if I love her, that will be a sin too.’ Lord Shiv was not saying anything, but his heart weighed heavy with unhappiness.
**
Tab Sankar prabhu pad siru nava/Sumirat Ramu hridayam as aava//
Ehim tan satihi bhet mohi nahim/ Siv sankalpu keenh mann mahim//
Lord Shiva bowed before Sri Ramachandra’s lotus feet in his heart. As soon as he remembered Sri Ramji, the thought arose in his mind that he cannot ever physically accept Sati as his wife anymore. Lord Shiva took that decision at that moment.
**
As bichari Sankaru matidheera/ Chale bhawan sumirat Raghubeera//
Chalat gagan bhai gira suhayi/ Jay Mahes bhali bhagati dridayi//
Remembering Sri Ram, Lord Shiv, renowned for steadiness of mind, returned to his abode in Kailas. When he moved, there was a celestial announcement ‘Lord Shiv, may you be forever glorious! You have shown exceptional firmness in your devotion.’
**
As pan tumh binu karayi ko aana/ Rambhagat samaradh bhagwana//
Suni nabhgira sati ur socha/ Poocha sivahi samet sakocha//
‘Who else but you can take such an oath? You are divine, a devotee of Sri Ram and all capable.’ Listening to the divine voice, Sati felt a sense of trepidation. She hesitantly asked Lord Shiv…’
**
Keenh kavan pan kahahu kripala/ Satyadham prabhu deendayala//
Jadapi Satim poocha bahu bhanti/ Tadapi na kahevu tripur aarati//
‘Compassionate Lord, tell me what oath have you taken? Lord, you are the epitome of truth and kindness incarnate.’ Though Sati pleaded in various ways, Lord Shiv did not respond.
**
Doha:
Satim hridayam anuman kiya sabu janevu sarbagya/
Keenh kapatu mai Sambhu san naari sahaj jad agya//
Sati understood that Lord Shiva knew everything which had occurred. ‘I have deceived Lord Shiv. I exhibited the foolish and non-discerning nature of women!’
**
Jalu pay sarees bikayi dekhahu preeti ki reeti bhali/
Bilag hoyi rasu jayi kapat khatayi parat puni//
The enchanting way of love is interesting: water mixing with milk gets sold at the same price…whereas, with the passage of time, the milk curdles due to the impurity and the taste (purity of love) is slowly lost.
**
Hridayam sochu samuchat nij karni/ Chinta amit jayi nahim barni//
Kripasindhu siv param agadha/ Pragat na kahevu mor aparadha//
Sati’s regret over her own mistrustful actions was so much that it cannot be described. (She thought) ‘Lord Shiv being an ocean of compassion, shall never openly speak to me about my misdeeds’.
Nij akh samuchi na kachu kahi jayi/ Tapayi avam iv ur adhikayi//
Seeing Lord Shiv’s demeanour, Sati understood intuitively that he had discarded her from his heart. She was extremely worried. Sati could not speak up about her error but like the fire inside the potter’s kiln, her heart was burning in agony.
**
Satihi sasoch jani brishketu/ Kahim kadha sundar sukhhetu//
Sensing that his wife was perturbed, Lord Shiv narrated many beautiful stories to soothe her. In this way, elaborating on various Itihasas, Lord Shiva reached his abode, Kailasa.
**
Tah puni sambhu samuchi pan apan/ Baide battar kari kamalasan//
Remembering his oath, Lord Shiv sat down for meditation, in lotus posture, under a banyan tree. He assumed his mendicant form and immersed himself in deep spiritual trance.
**
Doha:
Sati basahim kailas tab adhik sochu mann mahim/
Marmu na kovu jaan kachu jug sam divas sirahim//
Satiji lived in Kailas, her mind fraught with misery. Nobody knew the secretive happenings. Each day passed like an aeon (yuga) for Sati.
**
Nit nav sochu sati urb hara/ Kab jaihavu dukh sagar para//
Mai jo keenh raghupati apamana/ Puni patibachanu mrisha kari jana//
Every moment new and heavy thoughts germinated in Sati’s mind about crossing the ocean of sorrows. ‘I humiliated Sri Ramachandra and mistrusted my husband’s wise counsel…’
**
So phalu mohi bidhatam deenha/ Jo kachu uchit raha soyi keenha//
Ab bidhi as boochiya nahim tohi/ Sankar bimukh jiavasi mohi//
( Sati thought ) Destiny has rewarded me with just results ( the fruits of my action). But, Lord, it is not right that I continue to be alive when my beloved Lord Shiva has turned his face away from me.’
**
Kahi na jayi kachu hriday glani/ Mann mahu ramahi sumir sayani//
One cannot describe the pain inside Sati’s heart. The intelligent Devi prayed to Sri Ramji. ‘Dear Lord, you are the epitome of compassion. The Vedas hail you as the remover of all sorrows…’
**
Tau mai binay karavu kar jori/ Chutavu begi deh yeh mori//
‘Now I plead that I lose this mortal body of mine (to which my husband become averse). If my love, surrendered at Lord Shiva’s feet, is pure, if in my heart, words and actions, I have been true to that love, then…’
‘Lord who is all-knowing, provide a solution that I die and this insufferable disaster (where my husband has renounced me as his wife) no longer exists.’
The daughter of Daksha was in excruciating agony which cannot be put in words. After 87,000 years, Lord Shiva opened his eyes, awaking from his meditation (samadhi).
**
Ram naam siv sumiran laage/ Janevu satim jagpati jaage//
Jayi sambhu pad bandanu keenha/ Sanmukh sankar asan deenha//
When Lord Shiv started chanting Sri Ramji’s name, Sati recognised that the Lord had woken up from his meditation. When she approached her husband and bowed before him, Lord Shiv offered her a seat by his side.
Ministhy S Nair 