Amar Needhi Nayanar

2

Amar Needhi Nayanar

Pazhayarai….

The house of the famous merchant Amar…

In the courtyard, he glances at his wife Snekavalli seated nearby with infinite compassion and at the same time extreme worry.

Snekavalli (perturbed)

Why are you looking at me so intently?

Amar

Your pregnancy is nearing the term … I am disinclined to leave you alone and go away…   Yet, there is a huge Mahotsavam coming up at Nallur.  If I, as the head of the temple management, am not present, how can I expect the other staff to carry out their duties properly? How to manage the huge crowd that will take part in the festivals?

Snekavalli (insisting)

How can I stay alone here? Let me and your son I am carrying go with you.

Amar is more worried.

Amar

You have conceived after ten years of our marriage and is expecting the baby anytime soon…

Snekavalli laughs aloud. Surprised at not knowing the reason for her laughter, Amar looks at her.

Amar (continues)

How can I take care of you in the huge crowd?

Snekavalli

You keep repeating a thousand times that everything happens due to Easan’s will. Why then should you get worried? Nallur Peruman will take care of us! Let us go leaving our doubts behind!

Feeling proud of his wife’s determination, he calls his servants and orders them to prepare for the journey….

    *****

Thirunallur..

There is a huge crowd wherever one can see to witness the Mahotsavam of Easan. The roar of Panchaksharam from the adiyars and other devotees reverberates all around. There is Deeparadhanai in the Iraivan Sannadhi. Amar is standing there with his wife with his eyes moistened by tears.

Amar (to himself)

Iraiva! Whatever happens is due to You! You have endowed me with great wealth and also a progeny to look after it later! My wife is due for delivering the baby very soon…   I parry for her safety and well being of both the newborn and the mother…. I will offer gold equaling the weight of the baby in Your Sannathi… Please bless me with your mercy …

The temple bells toll loudly as though to indicate that Lord has acceded to his prayer.

   ******

The mantapam in the temple ….

Amar goes and sits in the front row along with his wife in the mantapam which is filled with people to its brim.  Chanting ‘Om Namasivaya’ aloud, a Thuraviyar (a saint who has relinquished all worldly possessions and human relations) enters the mantapam and gets seated on the stage erected there.  The entire crowd gets up as a mark of respect.  Amar along with his wife bow to him and get blessed by him.

After the assembled people take their seats, Thuraviyar addresses them.

Thuraviyar

Yesterday a person came and asked me a question. I want to narrate to you, the conversation we had and   the ideas we exchanged between us.

 He narrates…..

   *****

The Thuraviyar is seated under a peepal tree near his asramam…  Standing in a long queue, people are coming to him one by one, bow to him, receive Thiruneeru from him and leave quickly. But one man, after receiving Thiruneeru keeps standing looking intently at the Thuraviyar. Thuraviyar discerns that the man is looking at him derisively. The assembled people are taken aback by the question he poses to him.

The person standing

Hey! Thuraviyar! I envy you… Wearing saffron clothes you keep sitting here closing your eyes. The people keep coming here looking for you and offer you gold and other articles… Look at me… Though I toil hard night and day, I am unsure of my next meal… Supposing working people like me   also sit here like you doing nothing, how will your Iraivan be able run this world?

 The Thuraviyar gives a pause in his narration and the whole crowd gives a sound of surprise and revulsion. The Thuraviyar looks at the crowd which is eager to listen what kind of reply he may have given to that man.

 In the asramam, agitated by the questioner’s insolence, a few devotees pull him and try to drag him out from there. Thuraviyar however restrains them and signals that person to come near him. Reluctantly, the man who posed the question goes near him.

Thuraviyar

You say that you toil night and day. What kind of work you do?

The person who posed the question (proudly puffing up his chest)

I earn my livelihood by chopping wood.  I am a wood cutter.

Hearing this, some of the assembled people pounce on him for insulting the great mahant.  The Thuraviyar forbids them from attacking him and looks at the wood cutter again.

Thuraviyar

 I agree with you that you are toiling day and night. But how did you conclude that I am sitting  here doing nothing?
The wood cutter 

I am seeing it every day! You sit under this tree and close your eyes… You simply reply to the questions posed by the people and accept whatever they offer you in return. Is it not obvious that you are not doing any work?

He looks straight at the Thuraviyar after boldly answering thus.

Thuraviyar

In a Gurukulam, the Guru teaches skill to the students and accepts whatever his students offer him as fees for his livelihood. Can you say that he does not work?

The wood cutter keeps mum without replying him.

Thuraviyar (continues)

Iraivan created four clans for the functioning of this earth.  He subdivided the clans fourfold as under. Those who follow the path of wisdom and propagate the same to others are the Brahmanar, those who work using their intelligence are the Vanikar, those make use of their physical prowess are the Kshatriyar and those who do other works are the Sudrar. They are subdivided based only on the work they perform and as per Manudharma sastram it is permitted for anyone to switch from one to another.  It is my job to learn Vedas and teach and propagate them to others. It cannot be equated to any work involving physical activity.  You cannot compare your work with my work just like you cannot compare milk with oil. Do one thing. You also become a Brahmin like me…  Did not Viswamittirar a Kshatriyar become a Brahmin when he gave the Gayatri mantram to the world? Did not Lord Krishna, born to royalty become a cowherd and looked after cattle? Did not Valmiki, who was a highway robber become a Brahmin and gave us the holy epic Ramayanam? Did not the Brahmin Parasuraman become a Kshatriyan to subdue the Kshatriyas? Did not the kshatriyan Harischandran become a sudran and worked in the cremation ground as its keeper? All these stories are well known to us. There may be innumerable stories which we may not be aware of. No job is easy to perform and if one toils he can reap the fruits of his labour. That is why I am calling you… There is plenty of space next to me… You can also come and sit next to me. If you close your eyes and concentrate your mind on Brahmam, the path for your wisdom will be opened. You can also show that path to others. Come…   Join me….

Stretching both his hands he welcomes the wood cutter to join him. The wood cutter starts shedding tears profusely.

The Wood cutter

Gyaniyare!  You are telling me things which are beyond my comprehension. It is impossible for me to sit in a place closing my eyes. But I have understood one thing clearly. In this world you cannot achieve anything without hard work. Let me make my livelihood by cutting wood as before. Please let me go..

He lifts both his hands and joins them above his head in supplication and runs away from there.

    *******

Thirunallur…  After the Thuraviyar completes his lecture, the public amused by the story are laughing to their heart’s content.  The tension in their minds goes away and the mood is jovial. At that time a person from the audience gets up. Wondering what he is going to ask, the people become silent in an instant.

The person who got up

Thuraviyare! I have a long standing doubt in my mind. Fearing that I may be ridiculed, I am afraid to ask anyone. I am therefore reluctant to pose my doubt.

Thuraviyar

You may pose any question you want to without any reservation. Go ahead and ask me.

The person who got up

 I have heard our forefathers saying that those who do good deeds reach heaven and those who do evil deeds reach hell. Is that true?

Thuraviyar

Yes! Where is the doubt in this?

The person who got up

They say that Iraivan has created this entire universe and is omnipresent. Is this also true?

Thuraviyar (thinking)

Yes! This is also true.

The person who got up (taking a long breath of contentment)

If that be so, He must be present in hell also. What evil deed has He committed to be in hell?

Asking this poser quickly he sits down in a hurry.  Not hearing his question fully, some in the audience start asking others what the question is all about and there is a little commotion.

One in the Audience (getting up and looking at the person who posed the question)

We could not hear your question fully. Please repeat your question aloud.

The person who posed the question does not respond to the amazement of the audience.

Thuraviyar

I could hear him clearly. I will repeat his question myself. If Iraivan has created the entire universe and Omnipresent, will he not be present in heaven and also in hell? If he is present in hell, what sin he has committed to be there?

(Looking at the person who asked the question)  Isn’t that the question you asked?

The person who posed the question replies in the affirmative without even getting up. The audience, having discerned the impudence in his question become curious to know what the Thuraviyar‘s reply is going to be.

Thuraviyar

Our forefathers have told us that those who do good deeds go to heaven and those who do evil deeds go to hell. We also repeat the same to all the people now. The same thing will be told in future also. We are able to see the sky in this universe. The stars, the sun, the moon are all visible.  Where is heaven and where is hell located in any of these? Are they in East or in West? Is heaven is above and hell is below this earth? Where are they located?...

For a child, heaven is nothing but its mother’s lap…  A Gyani would say that the Lotus feet of Iraivan alone is heaven..  They say that if someone breaks his promise, he will be roasted in hell.. They say if a husband is unfaithful to his wife or a wife is unfaithful to her husband, they will be punished in a limestone cauldron and so on… If you look superficially, you will imagine as though heaven and hell exist in reality. If you analyse deeply, you will realise that  the lap of a mother, the lotus feet of Iraivan, the fire, the limestone cauldron are all present in this very earth.

Now I will explain the spiritual significance. Iraivan is Paramatma.  Separated from Him, we are born in this earth as Jivaatma.  We accumulate sins or virtues based on our actions. Virtuous people regain their place and rejoin Paramatma from where they originated. Our forefathers called that blissful state as   ‘Sorgam’. On the other hand, those who commit sins are born again in this earth. They are unable to reunite with Paramatma and this is the most distressed state. They called it ‘Naraham’.  What they have indicated to us is simply this. Sorgam is the limitless bliss of not having to be born again in this earth and Naraham is the extreme state of distress by being born again and again. All the punishments for evil deed that are narrated, like they will be roasted in the sun, they will be fired in boiling oil indicate the happenings in this earth and in this life only. Now a question may arise whether everyone born in this earth is for getting only punished. It may sometime happen, that even after leading a virtuous life and having done good deeds, they may be re-born in this earth if they are unable to unite with the Paramatma. But they will lead a happy life. They will be wealthy. They will have noble children. These rewards are not to give happiness alone. They also meant to put the person under tests. Only those who do not get swayed by their fortune and do not go wayward but continue to remain virtuous and continue to perform good deeds will attain Sorgam. If they get drunk by their power and wealth and indulge in sinful activities, they are sure to be reborn again and again and face the life of Naraham. Sorgam and Naraham are not entities like earth. Sorgam is a state and Naraham is likewise another state. Like truth and lie. The question posed by the elderly man   is similar to asking a question when Iraivan is in truth, will He not be in untruth.

The huge applause from the audience proves their consonance with the explanation given by the Thuraviyar. He continues as the din subsides…

Thuraviyar

Are there any more questions?

Not finding any response to his offer, he continues.

Thuraviyar (looking at the audience)

To those of you who do not know about him, I wish to tell about, Amar peruman, the temple caretaker, who is sitting here in front of you. Apart from that I wish to convey some news to him and to all of you. 

The crowd is eagerly expecting what the Thuraviyar is going to inform them.

Thuraviyar (continuing)

Amar Peruman gifts gold and other articles to anyone who seeks his help without fail. Like Karnan of

Mahabharatham, he is a great benefactor.

The Crowd (affirming)

True! True!

Thuraviyar (continuing)

Due to their continuous and prolonged use for giving gold and gems by both his palms, they used to say, Karnan’s palms were always reddish. It is being said from time immemorial that if one thinks of a donor, it is Karnan who comes to the mind. Well! Now I am going to ask you some questions and you have to answer them. Are you all ready?

Quite a lot of them start blinking not knowing what to say while a few of them nod their heads in agreement.

Thuraviyar (with a mild laugh)

This has happened during the Mahabharata war…. The war at Kurukshetra comes to an end and all the Kouravas are killed in the battle. What did they gain? Was it Sorgam or Naraham? Any one of you can answer. I want to remind you that Sorgam is the state where there is no re-birth. It is the supreme blissful state of uniting with Iraivan.  Naraham is when one is born again in this earth. Keep these things in mind while you answer my question.

One person gets up to answer.

The person who got up

The central theme of Mahabharatham is the fight between paternal cousins! When the Pandavas lost their game of dice, Duryodhanan got his cousins’ wife Panchali dragged by her hair to the assembly. He ordered his brother to make her sit on his lap. The whole assembly bent its head in shame. That very act became the reason for Panchali’s vow. He did not stop with that. He ordered disrobing of Panchali which is the most unpardonable sinful act among his other evil deeds. To cast an eye on other’s wife is one of the five most horrendous sins one can commit. All Kouravas would have gone to Naraham for committing this one act itself.

His emotional outpouring makes the crowd awestruck and it takes a few moments for them to react further that too after the Thuraviyar distract them by clearing his throat.

Thuraviyar

My next question….

What did the Pandavas gain? Was it Sorgam or Naraham?

The whole crowd (in one voice)

Surely it is Sorgam. Where is the doubt in it?

Thuraviyar (not showing any reaction to the reply)

I have just one more question…

What did Karnan get? Was it Sorgam or Naraham?

The one who spoke earlier (getting up again)

When you think of Karnan, the events that happen when he dies in the battle field unfold in front of our eyes.

In the battlefield, the wheels of his chariot get bogged down and he tries to lift them up. At that moment, the arrow unleashed by Arjunan strikes and drills his chest. Shedding blood he falls down. Dharmadevathai spreads a protective cover around his body   and stops the arrows from Arjunan. Arjunan is perplexed as to what to do to decimate Karnan. Kannan, taking the form of a Brahmin goes to Karnan and seeks alms. Lying wounded and shedding blood Karnan requests that he be asked only those things which he is in a position to grant. Kannan asks him to donate all his virtues he has accumulated by way of his noble deeds. Karnan bows to the Brahmin and donates all his accumulated virtues. The safety net of Dharmadevathai withdraws and the arrow of Arjunan kills him. In the realm of humankind, no one has ever seen or heard of such magnanimity and charity as displayed by Karnan. He would have definitely reached the Sorgam.

As he sits down, the crowd gives a thundering applause.  The Thuraviyar continues after a few seconds once the din subsides.

Thuraviyar

My first question…. What did the Kouravas get? Was it Sorgam or Naraham?

My answer is…..

Since the Kouravas did not abandon and run away from the battlefield and died fighting facing their adversaries, they all rose to the heaven.

There is a loud and surprised reaction from the crowd for this unexpected answer.

Thuraviyar

My next question was… What did the Pandavas get? Was it Sorgam or Naraham?

Stopping there, he looks at the audience.  Many of in the audience try to close their ears not wanting to hear that he may say that it was Naraham for the Pandavas.

Thuraviyar

After the end of the war, the Pandavas with Panchali and others reach Hastinapauram. What do they see there? Only the distressing crowd of widows who lost their husbands in the war, their pathetic

condition and the flood of tears from mothers who lost their sons in the battles! The palace which was brimming with joyful activities of the hundred Kouravas with their wives is shockingly silent like a cremation ground. Were the womenfolk of Pandavas happy? No! The victory of their men folk did not bring them any cheer. Were the Pandavas themselves happy as victors? Even that was not the case. Because of the curse of Aswaththama, all their children died in the battlefield. Loss of their sons affected every one of them. There was gloom … there was silence… there was void everywhere. Dridhrashtrar, Gandhari and Kunti who was cursed by Dharmar when she laid the dead Karnan on her lap and called him her son, all proceed for vanaprastham…

Here The Thuraviyar stops his speech and looks at the crowd who are stunned by his revelations.

Thuraviyar (continuing)

Afterwards, the Pandavas reign only for a few years. When Abhimanyu was slain in the battle, his wife was carrying.  When his son Paricheeth came of age, they handed over the kingdom to him and they also proceed for vanaprastham. For the benefit of those who are not aware of, I will explain what vanaprastham is.

In those days it was a rare event for someone to die of old age. Once they decided that they had spent enough time on this earth, would retire to the forest. They will not retrace their steps once they have taken a path. Nor they would turn back and see the path they have covered. They would keep on walking till they die and enter Sorgam. Those who do not observe the rules and those who are ineligible to enter Sorgam would end up at Naraham unable to complete their journey of vanaprastham.

Wanting to attain Sorgam, the five Pandavas and Panchali, start on Vanaprastham. On their way they come across a very narrow path. Even if one takes one step wrongly, he would fall and reach Naraham! At that time, the last one in the line Panchali falls off.

There is an anguished cry from the audience hearing the story…

Thuraviyar (continuing)

Hearing the thud, Sahadevan who is just ahead of her understands that Panchali has fallen off. But others wonder as to who might have fallen down. Observing the rule that they are not supposed to look back, they continue. After a few steps Sahadevan falls down with a thud. Now Nakulan discerns that Sahadevan and Panchali have fallen down as he was immediately ahead of them. Overcome with emotion he also falls down. Likewise Arjunan and Bhiman also fall off one after the other. Only Dharmar is now left there.  He walks ahead without losing his composure and soon comes across a slushy and stinking river. Without a second thought, he gets down to wade across the slush and soon he sinks to his chest level.  It is becoming difficult for him even to lift his foot and take a step ahead. He sees a dog stuck in the slush unable to extricate itself. With great difficulty, he pulls the dog from the slush with his hands and lifts it over his head. Carrying it like this he slowly comes out of the slush and leaves the dog on the bank of the river. Looking ahead, he sees a number of pathways leading from there. Not knowing which path to choose, he follows the path in which the dog is going. After walking for some time, he sees the gates of Sorgam. The attendants of Devas are standing there to welcome him. He looks inside and sees the Kouravas living there happily. He looks at himself and the dog that is with him. He becomes sad and his eyes swell with tears. He turns around and walks back the way he has come to the astonishment of the attendants of Devas.

A divine voice is heard. ‘Dharmarajane! The gates of Sorgam are opened for your entry. Where are you going instead?’ 

 Dharmar replies, ‘There is no place for my brothers and my wife Panchali in this Sorgam. Is this place only for me, this dog and the Kouravas? I will go to the same Naraham where they have gone.

There is a sudden flash of light and the whole place becomes brightly lit. Yamadharmarajan appears there.

He says, ‘Mahane! The dog that guided you towards the gates of the Sorgam is the ‘dharma’   that you have been following all through your life. Since you are still having your mortal body, you felt remorse on seeing the Kouravas enjoying bliss in Sorgam and your brothers and wife have been denied the same. If you have left your mortal body and observed with your blemish less soul, you would have realised your brothers and Panchali are also there happily and friendly with the Kouravas.  Mahane! Please discard your body now…’

Saying so, Yamadharmarajan extends his arms welcoming Dharmar who leaves his body and enter Sorgam with his noble soul.

Thuraviyar stops his lecture and the audience gives him a long standing ovation which takes a long time to subside.

Thuraviyar

My third question was what Karnan gain.  Was it Sorgam or Naraham?

After dying in the battlefield, Karnan sees the gates of the Sorgam in front and he starts walking towards it. As he keeps walking, the path keeps growing without an end. Though the gates of Sorgam appear at an arm’s length, he is unable to approach it.

On hearing this, there is a little commotion among the crowd. The elderly person who spoke earlier gets up with tears in his eyes.

The person who got up

Is this the destiny of our Karnan who gifted gold and germs in abundance to whosoever came to him?

Hearing his anguished poser, the whole mantapam goes silent.

Thuraviyar

Overcome with tiredness, Karnan is unable to walk further. Suriyan is perturbed seeing the condition of his progeny. Indiran is waiting near the gates of the heaven with his paraphernalia for welcoming him. Unable to walk any further, Karnan falls down. At that time sage Naradar comes along that way and sees Karnan lying down.

Naradar (surprised)

Aren’t you Karnan?

With great effort, Karnan gets up and bows to Naradar and confirms that he is none other than Karnan.

Naradar

Why are you looking so tired?

 With his right index finger, Karnan points to his front and Naradar looks in that direction.

Karnan (in a saddened voice)

I am walking without a let to reach the gates of the Sorgam you see there, but I am unable to go anywhere near it though it appears close by.

Naradar asked the same question as this elderly man asked here. Is this the destiny of our Karnan who gifted gold and germs in abundance to whosoever came to him?

Karnan stands unable to reply to him.

Naradar

Karna! Your index finger is pointing to the gates of Sorgam which you can see but you are unable to go near it. Do you want to know the reason?

Karna falls on the feet of Naradar immediately and catching them ask him to tell him the reason.

Naradar

You gave charity in abundance to whoever came to you. But you never gave Annadhanam, which is considered the highest among the charities ever. Once when a elderly person asked you the way to a choultry where he can get food, you indicated that place with your index finger. Do you remember that incidence?

Taken aback by the question, Karnan answers in the affirmative.

Naradar

In this earth, whosoever gives food, clothes and a place to stay for others reach very high position not only in his life time but also after he dies. Because of the good deed of your index finger which pointed the place for free food to a hungry man, you are at least able to see the gates of Sorgam.

Now come with me…

Naradar leads Karnan and both of them reach the gates of Sorgam. There Indiran   embraces him and welcomes him with great joy.  Karnan enters Sorgam.

 There was absolute silence in the mantapam for a few seconds even after the Thuraviyar concluded the speech. Amar Peruman who was keeping quiet all along is full of tears and prostrates in front of the Thuraviyar. He then gets up and bows to him.

Amar Peruman (overcome with emotion)

You have dispelled my ignorance and told me what my duty is… From now on, I will construct Annadhana choultries and ensure that whosoever comes there is fed and relieved of their hunger. I will give my entire life to feed, clothe and give a place for rest to those in need.

Thuraviyar blesses the Amar Peruman couple by sprinkling akshathai on their heads. At that very moment, the temple bells toll loudly asif to announce their happiness

    ******

Kailayam …

There is an unusual rush of activities…. 

Brahma with Saraswati and Thirumal with Maha Lakshmi are gracing the place with their presence. The Devas headed by Indiran have already arrived.  The Saptharishis, the Ashtadigpalas and the Navagrahas are all standing in their respective places. Annai Parvati is seated with Her eyes closed in meditation. They all await Easan’s arrival.   The Sivaganas are chanting ‘Om Namasivaya’ with their hands folded. To the heralding sound of Dhundhubhi and conches, Lord Sanakar arrives there. The divine damsels shower flowers welcoming Him. Devas and others are bowing to Easan. Brahaspati, the Guru of Devas comes up and bows to Easan.

Brahaspati

Mahadeva! The One who have given the four Vedas to the humanity! You have ordained that for learning and teaching the Vedas, one has to receive the Brahmopadesam and for that upanayanam is a necessary prerequisite. I am surprised that You have assembled all of us here to witness the upanayanam of Yours! May I know what is in the mind of Easan!

Easan (laughing)

It is only to obtain the Koupeenam from the hands of mother Adhiti!

His reply makes everyone speechless.

Annai Parvati 

It is also necessary to go for biksha, taking the bikshapatram in the hand and crying ‘Bhavathi Bikshamdehi’. Is not upanayanam essential for that?

Now everyone gets even more confused. Naradar comes forward and after bowing to Easan speaks looking at others.

Naradar

Iraivan needs to undergo the upanayanam to promulgate the glory of His adiyavars. We have been truly blessed to be able to witness such a grandeur scene.

He looks at Brahma with folded hands.

Naradar

Thanthaye!  Any task must be carried out only as per the set rules and regulations. That is the correct way. You may kindly conduct the yagam and be the yagachariyan. This is my prayer!

Brahma sits in front of the Yagakundam. The Saptharishis hand over the dharba grass and Agni arrives and bows to Easan and enters the Yagakundam. Easan, bows to Brahma as a disciple would do and sits near Him.  The chanting of Veda mantram starts.  Enchanted by the sound of Veda mantram, Naradar closes his eyes fully engrossed. Realising that someone has come very close, almost nudging him, he opens his eyes. It is Nandi who appears to be little confused. A mischievous smile escapes from Naradar on seeing Nandi. He comes outside bringing Nandi along.

Naradar

Nandiyare! You seem to be highly perplexed!  What is the matter?

Nandi

I am unable to comprehend whatever is happening.  The same question Brahaspati asked is nagging me as well. Emperuman   gave the four Vedas to the world and specified the laws relating to the conduct of upanayanam. Now He is Himself going to undergo upanayanam! How can there be upanayanam of Iraivan?

Naradar

Why not? When He took the avataram of Vamana, was not upanayanam of Emperuman Narayanar conducted?  Only because of that he could go on biksha to Mahabali and then send him to the nether world! 

Nandi is now looking even more confused….

Naradar

Alright! Alright! I will explain the whole story….

   *******

A serene asramam in the midst of the forest… There is peace everywhere…The deer run hither and thither playing joyfully in gay abandon. Suddenly they stop running around. There is an expression of fear in their eyes. Their ears are raised and turned to the direction from where they hear the sound coming.  The next moment, they all dart like a flash in the opposite direction and disappear…At a distance, raising a lot of dust a contingent of cavalry is galloping towards the asramam. On reaching the edge they all stop and Asuras alight from them. A young man with royal demeanor enters the asramam. Not finding anyone inside, he comes out and looks around. Finding the person he is looking for is sitting under a peepal tree at a distance, he rushes there. He orders the Asuras to stay put wherever they are.

He reaches the peepal tree and sits on his knees in front of him.

Asuran (lovingly hailing)

Thatha!

Prahalada Aazhwar opens his eyes on being hailed thus. The namam on his forehead, the scared thread along his shoulder and his bright eyes create a divine atmosphere there.

Prahalada Aazhwar

Hari Om! Namo Narayana!

Asuran

I am Bali, your grandson giving my salutations to you.

He gets up and keeps standing quietly.

Prahalada Aazhwar

Is that you, Bali? How is your kingdom and how are your subjects?

Bali

They are all very well.

He keeps mum not saying anything further.

Prahalada Aazhwar (lovingly)

You would not have come only to inform this. Please tell me. What is the matter?

Bali (in a mock anger)

Thatha! Why are staying here like a mendicant instead of staying in the palace with all the comforts?

Prahalada Aazhwar

We have talked about it a lot many times earlier…I have chosen to lead the rest of my life chanting only the name of Sri Hari. I do not want anyone to interfere between me and my Lord Sri Hari. Now tell me what for you have come here.

Bali

Thatha! I want to become immortal.

Prahalada Aazhwar starts laughing aloud on hearing this. Unable to understand the reason for his laughter, Bali stands perplexed.

Prahalada Aazhwar (warning)

Everyone who is born in this earth has to die one day… This is what is destined. Don’t try to change the destiny… It will only result in peril.

Bali

Does this mean that no one born in this earth can become immortal?

Prahalada Aazhwar (in a firm tone)

No! It is impossible.

Bali (not wanting to give up)

But our Asuraguru says that it is possible.

He looks up at his grandfather.

Prahalada Aazhwar

Tell me how that is possible.

Bali is enthused that his grandfather is at least showing some interest.

Bali

Thatha! If there is a will, there will be a way, is what our Asuraguru says! He says that, as my ancestor, your blessings are extremely essential for that. 

Prahalada Aazhwar

If you gain immortality, it will be a matter of pride for me. But your approach should be strictly according to the tenets of Vedas only.

Bali

I will strictly abide by the rules set out by the Vedas. I promise that to you.

Prahalada Aazhwar

If that is so, my blessings will always be there to help you.

Immensely happy to receive his blessings, Bali bows to his Thatha and comes outside the precincts of the asramam and mounts his steed. The Asura contingent gallops behind him raising such a cloud of dust that hides the sun. It looks as though it is night time!

The palace of Asura king…. All around are high hills!  Crowds of Asuras are everywhere.  Along with them other normal humans are also seen. In the open yard of the palace, a huge Yagakundam has been erected.  Agni rises from it to the chanting of Veda mantras by Sukrachariar, the Asuraguru.  As he follows the procedures strictly as ordained in the Vedas, the yagam proceeds smoothly without a hitch or letup. This goes on for days on end. Easan is enjoying the flawless intonation of Veda mantras by Sukrachariar. Annai is looking apprehensive. Discerning her discomfort Easan addresses Her.

Easan

What is this?  Being the knower of all, how come you are getting worried!

Annai

Whenever the Asuras conduct yagams, You get so enchanted that You grant them all their wishes. The moment they obtain their boons from You, they start harassing everyone in the three worlds leaving no ends. Asuran Bali is now conducting the yagam.  I am worried what will be the consequences because of this.

Easan

Bali is a good soul. ..  Devi! Have you forgotten what was he in his previous birth?

Annai

Yes! I am aware of it… He was a rat and a great devotee of Us. He used to lift the wick of the oil lamp with his nose so that Our temple was always lit and never went dark at night.  In return, We granted him the prospect of ruling all the three worlds in this birth. Due to that, he is born as a king in the Asuras clan. Now he is conducting the yagam to achieve the reign over the three worlds.

Easan

Devas can rule only the heavens….  The humans can rule only the earth… Only Asura sakti is capable of reigning over all the three worlds of the heaven, the earth and the nether world.  That is why Bali is born as an Asura in this birth.  He alone is competent to provide a just rule in all the three worlds. Every now and then, whenever the Devas lose their equilibrium and the humans forget to follow the righteous path, they regain their self-control only if they get to be ruled by Asuras. The time is like that now! How come you get perturbed though knowing very well that whatever I do is for the good of everyone? The time has come to bless Bali, our prime devotee. I am going to gift him with a chariot drawn by seven horses and weapons which will make him invincible!

Easan raises his hand and at that very moment, a chariot drawn by seven horses and various weapons emerge from the Yagakundam. Sukrachariar shouts ‘Victory! Victory!’ on seeing them.The conches are blown heralding the victorious conclusion of the yagam. The Devas run to Indiran in great fear on hearing the thunderous sound. At that very moment, Indiran is tipped by and falls off from his throne. Finding that his power and position have been taken off, he runs off with his paraphernalia and hide himself. In a moment, Bali reaches the Devalokam in the chariot gifted by Easan. He seats himself in the throne of Indiran. He is crowned as the emperor of all the three worlds by the Seven Rishis. As Mahabali Chakravarthi, he starts ruling over the three worlds.

    *******

The asramam of Devaguru…

All the Devas headed by Indiran are standing with their hands folded and mouth covered in great supplication in front of Guru Baghavan.

Guru Baghavan (looking at Indiran and other Devas)

Devendra!  Have you remembered your Guru only now?

Indiran runs and falls on his feet, prostrates and then gets up. Unable to give any convincing answer, he keeps quiet with his head bowed down.

Guru Baghavan

Indira! Do you know what is the greatest strength of Asuras? 

Indiran looks up looking at his Guru still silent.

Guru Baghavan

It is Guru Bhakti! Their unwavering devotion to their Guru! Their love and regards for their Guru Sukrachariar make them more and more strong. Compared to their devotion for their Guru, yours is next to nothing. Your haughtiness and not paying due regards to elders, your egoistic attitude and your arrogance in assuming that anything can be accomplished are responsible for your downfall and the state you are in. Now that the heavens are also under his control, he will break the back of all of you for having deviated from the righteous path and leading an indulgent life style… Runaway and hide yourself somewhere without being seen by him.

Devendran (pleading)

Mahabali has already brought all the three worlds under him. Is there any place where we can live incognito? Deva Guru! We realise our folly. Only you must show us a safe way out! 

Deva guru looks at Indiran with compassion.

Guru Baghavan

All of you must change your appearances and live on the earth with other earthlings. At an appropriate time, Thirumal will take the Avataram of Vaman and grant Mukti to Mahabali..Since you have realised your folly and regretted it, it has already dawned for your resurgence. But you have to wait till that time.

He blesses all of them. The Devas change their appearances and start living on the earth like other humans.

     ******

The asramam of Kasyapa Munivar…

Keeping her hand on her head, his wife Adhiti is sitting in a corner in great distress. She is so engrossed in her thoughts, that she does not even notice the Munivar coming inside and keeps sitting. When he hails her by her name, she gets up in highly agitated.

Adhiti (shedding tears)

Please pardon me… I have been sitting without noticing your arrival…

Kasyapa Munivar (surprised)

I am aware that you are very strong willed and you don’t get perturbed by anything. But when I came in you were looking sad with your head held in your hand.  Now you are shedding tears also. What is the matter?

Adhiti rushes and catches his feet wanting to unburden her mind.

Adhiti (anguished)

The Devas, who are our children, are living among the mortals on this earth concealing their identity fearing the Asura king. This universe will function properly only when they remain in their respective places and carry out their work. Varunan, Vayu, Agni, Yama Dharman are all unable to discharge their duties and the whole world is becoming topsy-turvy. The seasons have totally changed. Summer has taken the place of spring and the rainy season has replaced the summer. Agricultural activities have died totally and there is famine everywhere.  The famine has resulted in the collapse of righteousness … If the world is to be saved from destruction, all things must function as ordained. The heaven is meant for the     Devas, earth for the humans and the netherworld for the Nagars… Where is the place for Asuras here? The whole universe is tottering due to the reign of Mahabali Chakravarthi of the three worlds. All the creatures of the earth are our subjects! When will their distress end?   When will we see the dawn of prosperity?

Kasyapa Munivar

All these are ordained by Iraivan only! Those who swerved from the path of righteousness, be they Devas or humans, must suffer for their actions. What is to be done and when is decided by Him only. We can only pray to Iraivan as we cannot do anything else.

Adhiti

Iraivan grants the boon one seeks… Only Thirumal, who is the Protector, has to destroy the Asuras and save the Devas and the humans. I will immediately start my penance seeking His grace.

She commences her penance as laid out by the Vedas and completes the sixteen upacharas. To the sound of the blowing conch, Thirumal appears there sporting his Sanku and Chakram.

Thirumal

Annaye! I know what is in your mind… Mahabali is the grandson of my devotee Prahalada Aazhwar. He got the boon by the grace of Easan to rule over the three worlds. He is a noble soul. How can he be annihilated?

Adhiti (pleading)

If the universe is to function properly, it is essential that annihilation of Asuras happens at destined time. Mahabali must relinquish his kingdom so that the Navagrahas, the Ashtadigpalas and the Devas regain their respective positions. Isn’t it the duty of You, Prajapathi, to safeguard Your subjects? 

Thirumal

Annaye! You have put me in a very awkward situation!

He looks at Kasyapa Munivar.

Kasyapa Munivar (bowing to Iraivan)

If killing him is to be avoided, you merge him unto You by placing your feet as his crown!

Thirumal (brightening up)

Very aptly said! I will take birth as your son Vaman and merge Mahabali within   Me! 

Thirumal vanishes from there.

   *******

On the Dwadasi day of Sukalpaksham in the month of Purattasi, under the star Thiruvonam, Thirumal is born to Adhiti couple.  As He assumes the shape of a dwarf, he is named as Vamanan. As he reaches the age of seven, his parents conduct his upanayanam on same day and under the same star of Thiruvonam.   Brahma is present with Saraswati.  Eswaran along with Annai reaches there and takes His seat as the head of the ceremony. The seven sages come and bow to Him. All the Devas headed by Devendran bow to Eswaran and then to Vamanan. Now all the three moorthies assume their yadhasthanams. The Ashtadigpalas and the Navagrahas take up their respective places. The universe steadies itself and starts to function correctly as before.  To the chanting of Vedas and the accompaniment of music from divine musical instruments, Devaguru Brahaspati adorns Vamanar with the sacred thread. The seven sages hand over the dharba grass. Brahma gifts the Kamandalam and Saraswati, the Japamalai. Soman hands over the Palasa dhandam. His father Kasyapa Munivar ties the black thread around his waist and mother Adhiti hands over the loin cloth. Vamanar accepts the Koupeenam with great devotion and wears it. He sports the deer skin, given by Bhuma Devi around his waist.

Suryan reaches there and it is time to impart Brahmopadesam to Vamanar. He goes in front of Suriyan and folding his hand and covering his mouth, bows to Suriyan who recites the Gayatri mantra in his ears. The Devas gift him with an umbrella while Kuberan hands him the begging bowl. Holding the bikshapatram in his tiny hands, Vamanar begs for alms crying “Bhavathi Bikshamdehi.”   Everyone is enthralled by the brilliance of the young Vamanar. Annai Parvati gives ‘gyanam’ as the first of the alms. All Devas, Rishis and others are bowing to Vamanar who has incarnated to regain the rule of the heavens from the Asuras. Giving a mischievous smile to Sukrachariar, one of the Navagraha, He walks out of the place.    Sukrachariyar keeps looking at Him as He is walking away totally puzzled.  

    ******

The forecourts of the palace of Mahabali Chakravarthi…

Highly delighted by the successful conclusion of the yagam, he is giving gold and gems as gifts to the Brahmins. His eyes fall on the young Brahmin lad walking towards him.  Mahabali stands totally captivated seeing Vamanar approach him taking little steps with His tiny feet, carrying an umbrella in His left hand, keeping the dhandam on the left side, holding a bikshapatram in the right palm with a Kamandalam dangling from the wrist, wearing a Rudrakshamala around His neck, the sacred thread across his chest, the deer skin tied around his waist, the brightness of his face shaming the brightness of even a billion suns. He rushes ahead to welcome Him. Sukrachariar who comes there is surprised to see Vamanar there. Casting a mischievous smile once again at Sukrachariar, Vamanar looks at Mahabali with great compassion.

Mahabali

Oh! The greatest among the Brahmins! I am delighted looking at you! I am urged to raise my hands in supplication and pray to you!

He bows to Him again with great reverence. Sukrachariar looks at Vamanar wondering why He has come there.

Vamanar (stretching the bikshapatram and looking at Mahabali)

Bhavathi Bikshamdehi

Agitated, Sukrachariar goes near Mahabali.

Vamanar

Mahabali Chakravarthi! I have come here just after the conclusion of my upanayanam performed by elders in accordance with the Vedic tenets. As stipulated for a brahmachari to observe, I have come to you seeking biksha, that too the very first one.

He again shouts ‘Bhavathi Bikshamdehi’ and stretches the bikshapatram in front of him.

Sukrachariar (whispering into the ears of Mahabali)

Mahabali! The One who is in front of you is no small lad! It is none other than the arch enemy of Asuras, Sri Hari Himself! He has killed your ancestors earlier and He has come here to annihilate you! Be very careful while dealing with Him…

But Mahabali is overjoyed hearing the warning of his guru. He speaks aloud so that he can hear.

Mahabali

Guruve! How blessed I am? Is He the same who appeared before my grandfather Prahalada Aazhwar?

He looks in front at the smiling Vamanar and falls on His feet and prostrates. Getting up after touching His feet…

Mahabali

Oh! The holiest among the Brahmins! May You be Sri Hari worshipped by my grandfather! You have elevated me to the pinnacle of glory by coming here and seeking alms from me!  I am ready to give whatever you may seek.

He bows to Vamanar and stands with folded hands. 

Vamanar

Mahabali! You own all the three worlds…. !  It is enough if you give me only an amount of land that I can measure with three of my steps.

As Sukrachariar gets up greatly agitated on hearing this request, Mahabali signals him to keep seated and prevents him from speaking. He looks at Baghavan.

Mahabali (pleading)

The land you can measure with your three paces is a very insignificant gift I can offer you, as the owner of all the three worlds. I am offering you the entire land in front of your eyes as my gift .. Kindly accept it!

Vamanar (refusing his offer)

If you gift the land that I can measure with three of my paces from the three worlds you own, it is sufficient for me as it will be in accordance with my tenets.  

Mahabali

When I approached my grandfather to seek his blessing for obtaining immortality, he said that everyone who is born has to die one day. When I reminded him what my Guru Sukrachariar said that ‘when there is a will, there will be away to him, he blessed me and ordered me to follow the path of Vedas. I followed his advice and  obtained the fortune of reigning over all the three worlds… The yagam is going to be concluded. It is stipulated in the Vedas if any one seeks any gift at the conclusion of the yagam, it has be given as otherwise the Yagam is not considered to have been completed successfully. As per your request, I , Mahabali Chakravarthi , the owner of the  three worlds  hereby  give you as gift  the land that you can measure with three paces of your feet. 

Sukrachariar (to himself on hearing these words of Mahabali)

If I keep quiet and do nothing, it will amount to my being an accomplice of Sri Hari in his annihilation of Asuras. The time has come for me to act. Whenever a gift is given to a Brahmin, it has to be given by pouring of water through the palm of the hand. I will stop handing over of the gift by whatever means.

He gets up and addresses Mahabali.

Sukrachariar

Mahabali! If any gift is offered to a Brahmin it has to be done by pouring of water by your wife Vidyavalli through your palm and leaving it in the hands of the Brahmin.

When the entire Brahmins nod their heads in consonance, Vidyavalli comes with a water filled Kamandalam and stands near Mahabali. Mahabali stretches his arms to receive the water and Vamanar pits up his palms below it to accept it. Vidyavalli tilts the Kamandalam to pour water but no water comes out. Everyone looks aghast!

One of the elderly Brahmins who conducted the yagam gets up and bows to Mahabali and speaks to him.

The Brahmin

 It is bad omen that the water is not coming out of the Kamandalam though it is filled with water. It forebodes the annihilation of the entire clan… It shows that even Dharmadevathai has not approved of giving this gift….

Vamanar

It is not the act of any Dharmadevathai which is preventing the flow of water… The spout is blocked is the true reason… See now…

He takes the dharba grass given by the Saptharishis and twists them into a strong strand. He then pokes it in the opening of the spout. With a great agonized noise a bee comes out of it and turns into Sukrachariar from whose left eye blood shoots in a torrent.   The water from the Kamandalam come out and reaches Mahabali’s outstretched palms. 

Mahabali

Brahmachari! I hereby give you the three paces of land as gift which you asked for!

He leaves the water and it reaches the palm of Vamanar.

Vamanar

 I accept your gift with all my heart!

There the sound of the conch reverberates shaking the entire earth. The small stature of Vamanar keeps expanding and covers the heaven and the earth. Seeing the Viswaroopam of Iraivan, the Devas, the   Asuras, the humans and Mahabali raise their hands above their heads in supplication. Iraivan measures the entire earth with one foot and the entire heaven with the other taking the posture of Trivikraman.

Vamanar

Mahabali! Where can my keep my third step?

As Iraivan’s question rises as an enormous sound wave enveloping the heaven and the earth, Mahabali bows his head and points it. The sacred foot of Iraivan comes down as a crown on his head, and due its force Mahabali reaches the nether world which is taken as the third step. 

The Dundhubi heralds the regaining of the three worlds from Mahabali. The Devaguru, Asuraguru, the Navagrahas, the Ashtadigpalas, Indiran and other Devas all occupy their respective relinquished posts. The entire universe starts functioning normally as before. Maha Vishnu appears in his original form sporting the Sanku and Chakram leaving the posture of Trivikraman. He looks at Mahabali.

Maha Vishnu 

Mahabali! You lived as per the tenets enshrined in the Vedas and gained immortality as per your wish by obtaining Mukti through my foot.  You will have no death ever. Your name will remain as long as this world exists. Those who worship Me will worship you also.  Every year, on this day of Thiruvonam all the three worlds will welcome you and worship you. … Grant anything anyone asks for like you have done today.

He disappears after blessing him. Mahabali sits in meditation with his eyes closed in the Pathalalokam, chanting ‘Om Namo Narayana’.

   *******

Thirukailayam…

 Naradar looks at Nandi who seems still more confused…

Naradar (with a hearty laugh)

What is the matter? You asked me how here can be upanayanam of Easan… I narrated the upanayanam of Emperuman Narayanan in His avataram of Vamanar. I thought your doubts would have ended. It seems your confusion appears to have compounded!

Nandi

Yes! Was that the only way for Maha Vishnu to seek alms as Vamanar and kill the Asura to regain the three worlds?

Naradar

When you seek Biksha, it means acceptance. In the case of Mahabali, Iraivan did not accept but rather He has given.

Nandi

How can it be! Just now you narrated how Vamanar obtained three paces of land as biksha. Now you say He only gave and did not receive anything. It all looks contradictory to me!

Naradar

In the avataram of Narasimhar, he took a ferocious figure and killed Hiranyakasipu… He did not seek permission from Hiranyan for killing him because he was a vicious king.  Mahabali is not like him. He was a noble soul. He was blessed to reign over the three worlds due to the blessings of Easan… Moreover, he was the grandson of Prahalada Aazhwar and not averse to Sri Hari. To ensure that the universe functioned properly either Mahabali was to be killed or his status was to be usurped. No one can remove the boon granted by Easan. Also it was impossible to kill the grandson of Prahalada Aazhwar. To get what one wants by begging is improper for god. Whatever is to be done must be according to the rules of Dharma. That is why, He took birth as the son of Kasyapa Munivar, took brahmacharyam at the age of seven and went for his first biksha to Mahabali.   For getting food, land is needed… That is why He asked for and obtained three paces of land as a gift from him.  To regain the three worlds from the Asura, the method he adopted is as per the Vedic Dharma… Brahmachari is one who receives .He is not a giver.  But, Emperuman has crowned Mahabali with His sacred foot and made him immortal. He also ensured that the blessings of Prahalada Aazhwar are also fulfilled. That is why I said, He did not get anything as a gift but only gave.You know that all the three worlds belong to Sri Hari only. The owner took them back at the appropriate time. That is all. Now … Easan is getting ready to go. Come on.. He is also not going to obtain anything as a gift. Just for giving Mukti to an adiyavar He is going to Thirunallur.

Naradar grabs the dumbfounded Nandi by his hands and leads him inside.

Inside, the yagam has just concluded and the time has come for Brahmopadesam. The Saptharishis hand over the dharba grass to Easan. Brahaspati adorns Him with the sacred thread across His shoulder. Brahma gifts the Kamandalam and Saraswati, the Japamalai. Soman gives the Dhandam. Kasyapa Munivar ties him the waist thread. Annai Adhiti hands over the loin cloth. On receiving it Easan tears it into two, wears one and keeps the other fastened to the side surprising everyone by this act. Annai Parvati however leaves a gentle smile. Annai Bhuma Devi hands over the deer skin which He wraps around His waist. Suriyan comes and bows to Him.  Easan taking the role of a disciple folds his left hand and covers his mouth with the right palm reverentially. Suriyan recites the Gayatri mantram in His ears. The Brahmopadesam is concluded. The Devas gift Him with an umbrella and Kuberan the Bikshapatram.

Easan(on receiving the Bikshapatram seeks alms)

‘Bhavathi Bikshamdehi’

Annai Parvati gives ‘gyanam’ as the first of the alms. Taking the vow of Brahmacharyam, Easan vanishes into the thin air.

   *******

Thirunallur….

It is the day of a major festival.  A huge mass of people are going towards the Nallur Peruman temple. Easan is also walking along with them.  His thunderous shout of ‘Om Namasivaya’ makes everyone spell bound. Seeing the lustrous Brahmachari striding majestically, all of them respectfully give Him way. He reaches the matam where Amar Peruman lives with his family.

Easan (standing in front of the matam)

‘Bhavathi Bikshamdehi’

On hearing the shout of the brahmachari, Amar Peruman rushes to the entrance, His wife Snekavalli, carrying the child also comes running. Seeing the brahmachari, holding an umbrella , Kamandalam and Bikshapatram  in his hands, deerskin wrapped around his waist, thiruneeru covering the entire forehead, sacred thread running across the chest, rudrakshams dangling around the neck and arms , face radiating a bright glow, they stand bowing to Easan. Articles for doing the Padapujai are brought from inside. 

Easan (looking at Amar Peruman)

Adiyavare!

Taken aback for being hailed as an adiyavar, Amar Peruman looks at the brahmachari in great wonder.

Easan (in great compassion calls again)

Adiyavare!

Amar Peruman 

Perumane! Till now no one has called me as Adiyavar. May I know who you are?

He stands bowing to Easan.

Easan

Having Thiruneeru on your forehead, wearing Rudrakshams around your neck and chanting ‘Nama Sivaya’ mantram all the time, you are decidedly an Adiyavar.

Amar Peruman goes into raptures and tears start swelling up in his eyes.

Easan

Since I have taken the vow of brahmacharyam after undergoing upanayanam, I can eat only if I get the food by biksha. Before that I have to go and take my bath.

Amar Peruman calls his servants and arranges to take the brahmachari to the nearby river for his bath.

Easan (as if hesitant)

I have a request to make. Till I return after taking bath you must do me a favour…

Amar Peruman 

Whatever you order, I will carry out most earnestly.

Easan (as if satisfied by the response)

Please ask them to get one plate.

Amar asks for a plate to be brought and hands it over to the brahmachari.

Iraivan keeps the umbrella, Kamandalam, Dhandam, Bikshapatram, Japamalai and one part of the Koupeenam he had torn and kept on His side. 

Easan (looking at Amar Peruman)

Adiyavare! This umbrella is gifted by the Devas. … Brahma gave me the Kamandalam and Chandran, the Dhandam… Saraswati gifted the Japamalai and Annai Adhiti gave me the Koupeenam and Boodhevi gave me that loin cloth. You must look after these and ensure they are kept safely.

Amar Peruman 

It is my responsibility to keep them under my custody safely till you return from your bath.

Easan appears as if He is hesitant and Amar Peruman looks at Him wondering why He is so.

Easan

Adiyavare!  All the items I have given you are invaluable and none to match them in their preciousness…. Especially that loin cloth… Given to me by Adhiti…

Amar peruman looks at Easan surprised.

Easan

I understand the cause of your surprise… The Koupeenam is a very frivolous item… Why so much of importance is given to it? That is what is running in your mind! Annai has given it to me to protect my honour! Honour connotes life itself!  Nothing in the entire universe comprising the fourteen worlds can ever equal the value of the Koupeenam given by Annai Adhiti, the guardian of My life. That is why I tore it into two. I am leaving the dry one here for wearing it after taking the bath. Be careful… Be extremely careful!

He walks towards the river and Amar Peruman lifts the plate with the items left by the brahmachari himself and takes it to his room. After locking the door of the room, he keeps the key with himself in his waist.

 Outside, adiyavars and devotees who have come for the festival are given free food. Along with that, clothes are given free to those who have finished eating their food. On another side, he has kept the servants to look after the arriving people for taking rest. He goes around inspecting and ensuring that everything is done properly for some time. He returns quickly to the porch of his house and await the arrival of brahmachari from the river. Along with him his wife is standing with the child in deep sleep in her arms.

Brahmachari returns after his bath in the river. The couple welcomes him, does Padapujai and leads him inside. Easan sits on a raised platform there.

Amar Peruman 

Ayyane! Please come and have food!

Easan

As per the tenets applicable to me, I can accept the food only in the Bikshapatram. Please bring all the items I handed over to you.

Amar peruman go to his room, unlocks and opens the door. He carries the plate with the items and gives it to the Brahmachari. Easan accepts it and starts checking whether all the items are intact. His face glows in anger.

Easan (shouting in anger)

What is this thievery? Where is the Koupeenam of mine?

His thunderous voice attracts the attention of all the people around. They all assemble in front of the madam and peep inside out of curiosity. Amar Peruman is distressed beyond words.

Amar Peruman 

Ayyane! You have blamed me without knowing about me… Throughout the year, I feed thousands of adiyavars and others, I also give them clothes to wear and provide them shelter for stay for free. I have devoted myself entirely in their service. In fact, I myself carried all the items given by you to my room safely, locked the room and kept the key with me. I opened it only after you have returned and I have brought them before you. It is amazing that while all other items are intact how only the Koupeenam has vanished… There is no need for me or anyone of my clan to hide your loin cloth…Still, since I have not taken  care of the item you have given me, I am prepared to undergo any punishment you may want to give me… But please do not call me a thief. .. I have never heard anyone abusing me! I feel that my heart will burst out at any moment…

He starts shedding tears.

Easan (not showing any let up in his anger)

The Koupeenam that is missing was given to me by Annai Adhiti. I told you nothing in the entire universe comprising the fourteen worlds can ever equal its value while I gave it you. You are now saying that it is missing just like that! Supposing you are the judge hearing this case what will you do?

Amar Peruman (pleading)

Since the Koupeenam has gone missing due to my carelessness, I will hand over my entire wealth in lieu.

Please accept my offer.

Easan

I am a Brahmachari! As per the tenets, I cannot accept any form of wealth. Adiyavare! I have been wearing the wet Koupeenam for a long time. I cannot wear it any longer… What do I do now? 

Amar Peruman (scared)

If you permit, I will give you new clothes.. Please wear them.

Easan

I told you already that the Koupeenam that went missing from you is of immense value. We can do one thing. I have the other half of the Koupeenam which is wet. Once it dries up, you give whatever you want equaling its weight I will accept the same.

Amar Peruman heaves a huge sigh of relief.

Amar Peruman (pleading with his hand folded)

There are bundles and bundles of new clothes with me. There is no need to weigh them.  I will give the entire lot of new clothes to you… Please accept them, have your food and then only leave.

One person in the crowd (in a stern voice)

Ayya! Brahmachari! No one will even dare touch the Koupeenam worn by another.  When that is the case, how can you instigate Amar Peruman has taken and hid your loin cloth? He is prepared to give you bundles and bundles of new clothes. Accept them without any further argument. Why must you create a ruckus for an insignificant item?

Easan 

Adiyavare! The dispute is only between you and me!  The Koupeenam that you lost was gifted to me by Annai Adhiti. That is like a life guard for me! If you can give anything weight for weight for its other half, I will accept the same. Otherwise, I will return the way I have come!

Saying this He starts to leave. Amar Peruman runs and falls on his feet. Catching his legs he pleads.

Amar Peruman

Ayyane! You have come to my doorstep and shouted for alms ‘Bhavathi Bikshamdehi’ sporting the garb of a Brahmachari just after his upanayanam. If I am unable to serve you food to satiate your hunger, there is no redemption for us in this life… we will not get a place even in hell after our death… I abide by whatever you wanted. I will give new clothes equal in weight to your loin cloth.

He gets a weighing scale erected immediately. Iraivan hands over the other half of Koupeenam which is placed on the left pan of the scale. A new piece of cloth is placed on the right pan. Though it is much heavier than the loin cloth, the right pan remains up. The assembled people are amazed seeing this wonder. The news spreads that new clothes are being weighed and given against a loin cloth. People who are heading to the temple stop in front of Amar Peruman’s matam to witness the wonder! Next a huge bundle is placed on the right pan but still it remains up. All the cloth bundles in his house are piled on the right pan but still they do not equal the weight of loin cloth.  People are awe struck.

Amar Peruman (pleading again)

Ayyane! It looks as though Easan is behind these events. I will hand over all the gold, gems and all other wealth I have. Please accept them and have your food.

Easan (with finality)

Adiyavare! I told you already that there is nothing comparable in worth to the Koupeenam gifted by Annai Adhiti… Whatever happens, I will conclude my fast only after getting items equaling in weight to the Koupeenam.

Amar Peruman

This Thulabaram is not large enough to hold the gold and other gems I have. .. The one at Thirunallur temple alone will do. Please come… Let us all go there…

Iraivan starts walking towards the temple. Behind Him, Amar Peruman walks along with his wife and child carrying the Koupeenam in his hand in great reverence. His servants and guards carry all his gold and other gems in bundles. The people in large numbers also follow saying that there is some activity enacted by Easan is going on. All of them enter the temple and reach the mantapam where the temple Thulabaram is kept.  Those who are already inside the temple also rush to the mantapam when they see the brahmachari in garb of upanayanam, walking with great radiance followed by Amar Peruman and his wife carrying the child.

In the mantapam….

Amar Peruman keeps the Koupeenam on the left pan of the Thulabaram and all the bundles containing the gold and other gems are piled on the right pan one over the other. The Thulabaram is not balanced. The pan containing the Koupeenam is lower and the other containing his entire wealth on the right pan is higher. Amazed on seeing such a phenomenon, the crowd stands bewildered not even batting the eyelids.

Amar Peruman looks at his wife embarrassed… Understanding his intent, she removes all the ornaments she is wearing and places them on the right pan. Still the Thulabaram is not balanced and remains as it is.    

Easan

I am not going to accept anything which does not equal the worth of my Koupeenam. Let me go…

He gets ready to depart. Amar Peruman looks at Easan, having arrived at a final decision as to what to do further.

Amar Peruman

Ayyane! Please wait for a moment… I have under taken a vow in the Sannidhanam of Easan that I will give my entire life to feed, clothe and give a place for rest to those who come to me… I realise the significance of that only now.

Saying this, he removes all of his items kept in the Thulabaram and keeps them on the floor. Catching hold of his wife who is holding their child, he circumambulates Easan thrice and bow to Him. He with his wife and child then climbs and sits on the right pan of the Thulabaram. There is the loud sound of Dundhubis. The Thulabaram gets balanced to the astonishment of everyone. The temple bells toll and the Veda mantras are emanating from the sky. Easan along with Annai Parvati appears there mounted on His Nandi vahanam.

Easan (blessing Amar Peruman)

Amarneedhi Nayanare! To uphold justice, you are prepared to sacrifice yourself!  You name and fame will remain as long as this earth remains. Whosoever worships Me will worship you as well!

The Devas shower flowers from the skies. All the people of Thirunallur assembled in the temple bow to Easan and Annai in great reverence. The Thulabaram in which he, his wife and the child are seated transforms into a chariot and flies towards the heavens. The assembled people chant Panchaksharam in great earnest. Amarneedhi Nayanar merges unto Easan.

Thirukailayam…

Naradar comes there and looks at Nandi at the entrance… Absorbed in his thoughts Nandi fails to notice Naradar’s presence. As Naradar chants the Panchaksharam ‘Om Nama Sivaya’ aloud, Nandi comes back to his senses and bows to Naradar hurriedly.

Naradar

Nandiyare! What is the matter? You are lost in thoughts!

Nandi

It is all very confusing to me! That is why I didn’t notice your presence. Please pardon me for that!

Naradar (mockingly)

I understand… How can Nandiyar ever remain without being confused? Anyway, may I know what is confusing you now?

Nandi is hurt by his taunt and it shows in his face. Naradar feeling genuinely sorry for hurting his feelings speaks to him.

Naradar

Nandiyare! Please pardon me if I have hurt your feelings. You ask me whatever you want to. I will definitely clarify your doubts and clear your mind of any confusion.

Nandi brightening up looks at Naradar.

Nandi

Just now, Amarneedhi Nayanar merged unto Iraivan with his wife and child. It is said that that nothing in these fourteen worlds can equal anyone who sacrifices himself for Iraivan. When that is so, Amarneedhi Nayanar alone could have sat on the Thulabaram. Why he dragged his wife and child also along with him?    

Naradar

That is the reason why Iraivan hailed him as Amarneedhi Nayanar! What did Amar peruman say that he would give in place of the Koupeenam lost by him? He said that he would give everything that belonged to him in place of the Koupeenam lost due to his carelessness. Easan declined that he could not accept gold or any other articles asa Brahmachari. That is the reason why gold was not accepted as compensation and the Thulabaram did not balance. To be true to his word, Amar Peruman sat on the Thulabaram with his wife and his child as they were the only ones which belonged to him. 

I will now narrate the inner meaning …Please listen…

 The Aanmas in Me, You, Amarneedhi Nayanar, his wife, his son and all the Jivans in this earth are nothing but those which have separated from Iraivan, Who is Paramatma. Is it not natural for the separated Jivaatma to reunite with Paramatma? Accordingly, when he gave all the Aanmas that he had as compensation, Easan accepted them.  Are you now cleared of your confusion?

Nandi

Naradare! What is this?  Talking of Jivaatma and Paramatma, you have only compounded the confusion! Are You, Me and Iraivan not distinct from each other?

Hearing this Naradar laughs uncontrollably and the whole Kailayam rattles by his laughs!

Thiruchchitrambalam