Thyagopanishad of Sri.T.S.Balakrishna Sastrigal

Thyagopanishad

(The Upanishds of Saint Thyagaraja)

By

Sri.T.S,Balakrishna sastrigal

Translated and condensed  by

P.R.Ramachander

(Sri  T.S.Balakrishna Sastrigal  (1919-2003)  belonged to Thiruvidaimarudhur   and was an eminent  Hindu Scholar and  Harikarga  exponent. In this great book , he   has taken 57 Krithis of Saint Thyaga Brahmam   and  explained the meaning as well   as deeper significance)

These are a collection of Essays(57 in number)  by  Sri  T.S.Balakrishna Sastri   under the heading  THyagopanishad  in a journal called  Vaideeka Samvardhini.Each essay takes one Krithi of Saint Thyagaraja   and gives the meaning as well   as  a commentary on it. Unlike that learned author, I have only given   those comments in a nutshell. He further says that these great outpourings of devotion from Saint Thyagaraja are   really the  meaning  of The Upanishads and that is why it has been been called    as Thyagopanishad.

1.Raga Rathna Malika

(Garland of gem like Ragas)

Saint Thyagaraja  has done a survey   of his work in this   great composition, He says that he intends to decorate  the God  with a   garland    of gem like Ragas. He says this garland is    the total   essence  of our great religion:-

Ragha rathna malika che

By
Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander


Ragam-Reethi Goula
Talam-Roopakam
Lnguage –Telugu

Pallavi

Raga rathna maliga che
Ranjillu nata hari shatha

Anu Pallavi

Bhaga sevinvchi sakala
Bhagya manthuda murare.

Charanam

1.Naigama shad shasthra puraana
Agamartha sahitha mata

2.Yogivarulu aanandamu
Nondhe sanmarga mata

3.Bhagava thothamulu koodi,
Pade keerthanamulada

4.Thyagaraju kada there
Tharaka mani chesina.


English translation

Pallavi

With a garland made of,
Hundred gem like ragas,
Which is very dear to mind of Hari.

Anupallavi

Come , let us serve that Lord well,
And receive all sorts of luck.

Charanam

1.This garland of words is the essence of four Vedas,
Six Vedangas , Puranas and Agamas.

2. This garland of words is seem as the,
Greatest joy leading great sages to salvation

3.Thse are the gems which are sung by,
The greatest of devotees gathering togather

4.Composed by Thyagaraja , it is a way to his salvation

2.Ramavathara

(Incarnation  as Rama)

      In this Krithi , the saint says , he does not wherefrom the God Rama came.He reasons out that it is not Kailasa, Vaikunta ar Brahma Loka  and concludes   that  he is greater than   the Trinity of Gods  as he has come with courage, Dharma, Truth  and pleasant words.

Yenthundi vedalathivo

By
Saint Thyagraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam Darbar
Thalam Triputa

Pallavi

Yenthundi vedalathivo , Ye ooro , ne theliya,
Ippudaina thelapavayya.

Anupallavi

Andha chandhamu vere nadathellella trigu-,
Nathee thami yunnathe kani Sri Rama Neevu

Charanam

1.Chidukandena aparaha chaya ula thagilenche,
Shiva lokamu kaathu

2.Vadu roopudai palini vanchinchi yanath suvani,
Vaikundamu kathu

3.Vida vachanamu chiramu thrumpa patta,
Vidhi lokamu kathu

4.Thidavu dharmamu sathyamu mrudhu bhashalu kalku
Divya roopa thyaga raja vinutha neevu.

English translation

Pallavi

Oh Lord , I do not know, where from you came,
Nor to which place you belong.
At least tell me now about it.

Anupallavi

Oh Rama, apart from the great beauty that you posses,
You seem to be beyond the three types of qualities.

Charanam

1.You do not belong to the place of Shiva,
Where one is scared that he may commit mistakes any time.

2.You do not belong to Vaikunta , the land of the Brahmachari,
Who deceived King Maha Bali

3.You do not belong to the land of fate,
Where the lord lost his head by telling a lie.

4.But Thayagaraja is now telling,
That you are Lord Rama who has,
Come with courage, Dharma , truth and pleasant words.

3.Avathara  Thathtwam

(The Philosophy behind that  incarnation)

 The sage tries to analyze   the philosophy behind the incarnation  of Rama, though   he feels that   there is b no need. He concludes that  he is the divine soul which is in the middle of Sun   and he does not have any bad qualities and He is Dharma, Truth, humility   and kindness  to devotees.

Undethi Ramuduookadu

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Raga Hari Kambodhi
Thala Roopaka

Pallavi

Undethi Ramudokkadu,
Oorage chedi pogu manasa.

Anupallavi

Chanda marthanda madhya,
Mandalmu nanu chelungusu

Charanam

Thamasadhi guna rahithudu,
Dharmathmudu , sarva shamudu,
Kshemakarudu , Thyagaraja
Chitha hithudu jagamunindi.

English Translation

Pallavi

There is only one Rama,
And so why are you bothered , Oh mind.

Anupallavi

He is the one who is firmly there,
In between the very bright universe of Sun.

Charanam

He is without any base qualities,
He is the soul of Dharma, he is truth and humility,
He does good to those like Thyagaraja,
Who keep Him in their mind always

4.Sathya Vruthan

(Rama  whose penance   is Truth  )

   Rama has taken truth as his penance . He gives his word only once ,  he   used his arrow only once  and he had only one wife and he requests devotees not to forget him   as   that Rama had a   very stable mind.

Oka Mata, Oka Banamu

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Ragam Hari Kambhodhi
Thalam Roopakam

Pallavi

Oka matta , Oka Banamu
Oka pathni vruthuu ,manasa

Anupallavi

Oka chithamu kala vade
Oka nadunu maravaguve

Charanam

Chira jeevithvamu , nirjara vara,
Soukhya mosa ngune,
Dhara paraketi Devude,
Thyagaraja vinuthude.


English Translation

Pallavi

Oh mind , he is a man of,
One word, one arrow and one wife

Anupallavi

Do not for get him ever,
Because he has a stable mind.

Charanam

He gives death less life,
Without becoming old,
As well as a very pleasant life,
And Thyagaraja tells,
He is the only God like that.

5. Ramavathara Karanam

(The  reason for   incarnation as Rama)

 The sage tries to analyze why  Lord Vishnu   took   this Avathara  of Rama., He gives   the reasons in the form of Questions and concludes   that it is  to look after   great sages and   to remove sorrows of Samsara

Elavathara methu kondilo

By
Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by
P.R.Ramachander

Raga Mukari
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Elavathara methu kondilo,
Emi karanamo ramudai

Anupallavi

Aalame putaka Ayodhyaa,
Palana chese dendhukka Sri Rama

Charanam

Yogula brachedunthuka bhava,
Rogula brachedunthuka , satha,
Raga rathna malikanu rasinchina,
Thyaga rajuniki varamosa kudaka

English Translation

Pallavi

Oh Lord , what is the cause of your,
Being born as Lord Rama

Anupallavi

Is it for grazing the cattle or is it,
To rule and look after Ayodhya,

Charanam

Is it for looking after great sages?
Is it to remove the sorrow of birth?
Or is it to become a Lord to,
Thyagaraja , who composed,
This garland of pearls of songs.

6.Raman Alitha  Sukham

(The pleasure   given  by Rama.)

The saint   does  analyzes     the type of pleasures  given by Lord Rama.  He concludes , that he fills the mind of people with joy  , gave pleasure   to Sita by his  handsomeness, gave  pleasure to Lakshmana   by making him do service  to him  , made Bharatha  happy  by making him remember your face   and gave Anjaneya pleasure  by giving g his feet to him.

Lekkana ninnu juttu

By

Sage Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Asaaveri
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Lekanaa ninnu juttu konnaru,
Eka hrudayulai nithyanandamu

Anupallavi

Srikara karunaa sagara nirupama,
Cinmaya haritha chinthamani nee eda

Charanam

1.Soundaryamulalo sukhamu seethamaku,
Soumithriki kanula jadalo Sukhamu

2.Sundara mugamuna sukhamu Bharathaniki,
Sugnana roopamuna sukhamu Ripgnaniki

3.Charanayugamunandy sukhamu Anjaneyanuki,
Vara guna Thyagaraja Vadanandamu

English Translation

Pallavi

Is it without reason , they have crowded round you,
For do not their heart get filled up by perennial joy.

Anupallavi

You are with Lakshmi , you are the sea of mercy,
You have matchless divinity, you are the gem of thought

Charanam

1.Seetha got pleasure due to your handsomeness,
Lakshmana got pleasure in obeying orders of our eyes.

2.The thought of your pretty face was happiness for Bharatha,
The shadow of your thought reflected though Bhatarta,
Was giving great pleasure to Shatrugna.

3.Your twin feet gave great pleasure to Anjaneya,
And the boon you gave to write about him is pleasure to Thyagaraja.

6.Durasai

(Wrong  desire)

The sage says   that  he only tells about   his good qualities and has a wrong desire   that Rama would come in search of him.  He then asks the  pardon of God   as he  does not do   good acts like bath, charity and has not studied  Vedas.

Sugnamule cheppu kondi

Raga Chakravaka
Thala Roopaka


By
Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Pallavi

Sugunamule cheppu kondi.
Sundara Raghu Rama

Anupallavi

Vakalerunka leka yidu
Vathu vanusu duras che

Charanam

Snanadhi sukarmam bulu
Danatha yayanam bhuleruga,
Sri Nayaka kshamiyinchu mu,
Sri Thyagaraja nutha

English Translation

Pallavi

I am telling your good qualities.
Oh pretty Raghu rama

Anupallavi

Without knowing the way to you,
I had wrong desire that,
You would come to me.

Charanam

Please pardon me Oh Lord,
For I am poor in good acts like bath,
And never did charity
And never had the knowledge of Vedas,
Oh God, who is being praised by Thyagaraja.

7.Yaarukku Upadesam

(Advice     to whom.)

The saint feels that  there is no use  of  advising  the men of  Kali age and it is like telling the taste  of cooked food   to a bull.

Kali naruluku thelipemi

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Kunthala varali
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Kali narulukku mahimalu thelipemi,
Palamana letha

Anupallavi

Illanu velayu vara vruksha rajulakkadu,
Kularuschi theliyu chandamu kani

Charanam

Darasuthulagai dhanamunakai ooru,
Perulakai bahu petha dhanamukai,
Sareku bhaktha veshamu konuvariki,
Tharaka nama Sri Thyagarajarchitha

English Translation

Pallavi

Did you know tell your greatness,
To the people born in kali age,
Thinking that there is no use

Anupallavi

It is like teaching the roaming royal bull,
The taste of things like beaten rice.

Charanam

Thyagaraja feels that is useless ,
As t is like telling the name of Rama,
Who put on the act of a devotee,
For the sake of wife , wealth ,
For the sake of children and great fame

8.Yellorkkum   iniyavan

(one wjo is sweet   for all)

Saint  wonders how Rama   Talked with various people  like  Uncle  , brother  , mother father   relartives , kings   sages and Rakshasas   and kept    them always  pleased

Yemani matladadithivo

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Ragam  THodi

THalam Aadhi

Pallavi

Yemani matladithivo  Rama,

Yevari manassuke  yevidhamo thelisi

Pallavi

For understanding the mind of various people,

How did  you converse  ., Oh Rama

Anupallavi

Mama, marudhu la nujulu   thalli thandrulu ,

BHamalu  pari janulu  swa vasa melada

Anupallavi

For making uncle  , brother in law  , brothers, mother, father ,

Wives , relatives  and others  as your own.

Charanam

Rajulu, munulu  Surarulu Varadik-,

Rajulu  mari  sooru;lu sasadara dina ,

Rajulu  lopadi naduvanu  thyaga,

Raja  vinutha   nayabha   yamuga   mudduga.

Charanam

For  making  kings , sages  , Rakshasas ,  the great guardians,

Of directions , devas , learned people  and the moon and the sun,

To obey you with  diplomacy , scare and sweetness ,

Oh Lord Who is worshipped by Thyagaraja.

9.Madhura   Mozhi

(sweet words )

Paluku Kanda chakkarenu

By

Sage Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Nava rasa kannada
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Paluku kanda chakkerunu kerune,
Panathulara choodare.

Anupallavi

Koluvu koodamunanu kolusuvarini
Pilasi Dasaradhi prema meera paluke

Charanam

Surula kamini manula ganama,
Darana nala kinchunnu srungara,
Rasa yuktha vaara ramnulada choosi,
Saras Thyagarajunitho pogade.

English translation

Pallavi

The sweet words are sweet like Sugar candy,
Oh ladies , please see

Anupallavi

Calling with love, those great people in the hall,
As well as those who are working there, Sri Rama,
Told them endearing sweet words,

Charanam

The words that Rama spoke in between,
Witnessing the ladies of heaven and Apasaras
Singing their songs in which love is mixed.
And also enjoying the interest filled dances,
To Thyagaraja with love are indeed sweet.

10.Nalla Snehithan

(Good Friend)

Saint  Thyagraja requests    his mind  considering it as his friend   and requests  it to sing about Lord Rama instead of Roaming here     and there

Manasa eduloruthunu na

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam Malaya marutham
Thalam Roopakam

Pallavi

Manasa edulorthunu na,
Manavi che konave

Anupallavi

Dinakara kula bhooshunani deenudavai bhajana chesi,
Dinamu kadupu manina nevu vinava vela guna viheena

Charanam

Kalilo rajasa thamasa gunamulu kalavari chelumi,
Kalasi melasi thiruguthsu mari kalamu kadapakane,
Sulabhamuka kada theranu suchanalanu theliya cheyu,
Ilanu thyaga raju mata vinavathela guna viheena

English translation

Pallavi
Oh mind, why are you not obeying me,
In spite of my requests

Anupallavi

Please sing the ornament of the clan of Sun god,
With great humility and spend your days,
At least please hear and obey this, Oh mind without any good

Charanam

You spend all your time in this kali age , by simply roaming,
And making friendship with people with regal and base qualities,
And Thygarja will tell you easy methods to attain salvation,
Sing about Rama, oh bad one . Can’t you reform hearing this?

11.Sesha Kaingaryam

(The service   of  Adhi Sesha- Lakshmana )

The saint  tells us about the service by Adhi Sesha to Rama and tells that  Lakshmana  is indeed lucky.

Mithri Bhagyame , Bhagyamu

By
Sage Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam Karahara Priya
Thalam aadhi

Pallavi

Mithri bhagyame, bhaghyamu sou

Anupallavi

Chithra rathna maya seshathapamanthu,
Seethapathini yunisi yoosu sow,

Charanam

Bhakuka vindha raghamulanalabhamu,
Seyaka menu pulakarinchakaa,
Thyagaraja nuthdakku Ramuni,
Thathwarthamunu pogadi joosu sow

English Translation

Pallavi

The luck of Lakshmana is the real luck

Anupallavi
Having rocked the cradle in which Rama
Is sleeping on the gem studded bed of Adi Sesha

Charanam

Having seen been able to sing the real qualities of Rama,
About whom Thyagaraja sang pretty songs in several Ragas

12.Udal pethra  Inbam

(The pleasure that the body felt)

The saint tells that eyes which   are not able to see   the God are useless,  the body which has not hugged Lord Vishnu is  useless and hands that  have not offered flowers  to him is useless.

Ennaka manasuku rani

By
Saint Thyagraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Neelambhari
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi
Ennaka manasuku rani,
Pannaga sayi sogusu
Pannuga kanu konani kannulele
Kannulele kanti minnulele

Charanam

1.Mohamutho neelavaari,
Vaha kanthi nigerina,
Sri Harini kattu konani deha mele,
Deha mele ee gehamele

2. Sarasija malle Thulasi
Viruvaji pari Jatha pu
Virulache poojinchini karamulele,
Karamulele ee kapurmulele

3.Malimitho Thyagraju
Nelina ramamurthini
Lalinchi pogatani nalikele,
Nalikele suthra malikele

English translation

Pallavi

What is the use of having such eyes,
Which are not becoming happy,
On seeing the Lord sleeping on Adhisesha,
Which is beyond our mind ,after great thought ,
What is the use of having such eyes.

Charanam

1.What is the use of the body that does not,
Embrace Krishna who is like a blue cloud,
With great affection, what is the use of that body.

2.What is the use of hands that does not offer,
Flowers like Lotus, Jasmine, Thulasi, parijatham,
To the God, What is the use of that hands.

3.What is the use of that toungue that does not sing,
About that Rama who saved this Thyagraja,
What is the use of that toungue or the chain of beads.

13, Seethapathiyin sidhantham

(The principles   of Lord Rama)

The saint says that Lord Rama himself   is his principle as told by Him to Lord Anjaneya.

Sithapathi  naa manasuna

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam  Khamas

THalam  Desadhi

Pallavi

Sithapathi  naa manasuna

Sidanthamani  yunnanuraa

Pallavi

Oh consort  of  Sita, In  my mind,

I firmly believe that you  are my principle. 

Anupallavi

Vathathma jathula   chenthane ,

Varninchina  nee palugulella

Anupallavi

All the words   that  were   described by you,

To the son of wind God and others

Charanam

Prema joochi naapai  pedha manasu jesi  ,

Nee mahimalella  nindaara joopi,

Yi mahini  bhatyametikanna mata,

Ramachandra Thyagaraja  vinutha.

Charanam

Keeping great love on me,  , with a very broad heart,

Showing all your greatness   you told me,

“Why this great   fear in you in this great world ?”

And I believe them , Oh Ramachandra worshiped by Thyagaraja.

14.Seetha Vallabhan

(The Lord Of Seetha)

It is interesting that sage   addresses  Lord Rama as the  Lord of Sita .He requests  him never to say “no” in protecting him.He says that  since , the Lord’s devotees are many  , it would be difficult   for him   to write about  all of them.

Valla kathanaka , Sita vallabha

By

Saint Thygaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Pallavi

Valla kathanaka Sita Vallabh brova na

Anu Pallavi

Valla nadi bhatha charitha mella vrayenalara

Charanam

Sthambhamunanu tharumaruguna dimbuda Yasoda oodini,
Dambudaina muchkundani tasi maruguthsu
Sambhavinchi yuga yugamuna sarasa Thyagaraja vinutha,
Kumbhaka rechaka vidhulanu kori brosinaavu naa

English translation

Pallavi

Oh husband of Sita, never tell me that you cannot save me

Anupallavi

Why should I write the story of the devotes whom you saved

Charanam

From within a pillar, from behind the tree*, as a child,
In the lap of Yasoda, appearing and vanishing from the proud Muchkunda,
You have been happening from ages to ages,
And those you know you know Khumbaka and Rechaka**,
And Thyagaraja says , that , all this was ,
To satisfy the requests of your devotees.

Note. *He appeared as Narasimha from inside the pillar and as the naughty Krishna from behind the tree.
**Kumbaka and Rechaka are yogic inhalation and exhalation.

15.Yethai Cheithal yenna

(what does matter  , whatever we do)

The sage says  that in spite  of your doing great acts, in spite of your attracting others,  there is absolutely no use  unless  he gets the grace of Lord Rama,

Yemi chesina nemi

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Thodi
Thala Tripuda

Pallavi

Yemi chesina nemi Sri Rama,
Swami karuna leni varilalo

Anupallavi

Kama moha dasulai Sri Ramuni,
Kattu theliya leni varilalo

Charanam

1.Immu kalikina nemi illaliki,
Sommu pettina nemi,
Kamma vil thuni keli thelisi yemi,
Thammi kandivani karunaleni varilalo

2.Savamu chesina nemi kalimini puthroth,
Savamu kalikina nemi
Pulilo nanya bheeja janidhuni koni yemi,
Shivakara Sri Ramuni daya leni varilalo

3,Meda kattina nemi andhuna,
Laandharu jodu kattina nemi
Chediyalunu meppincha thelisi yemi,
Eedu leni Ramuni dayaleni varilalo

4.Rajyamelina nemi bahujanu lola,
Poojyulalia nemi,
Aajya pravahamutho nanna midina memi,
Poojyudaina Ramuni daya leni varilalo


5.Guruvu thanaina nemi kandike menu,
Guruvai doshina memi,
Vara mantra manyula kupadesinchina nemi,
Va thyagarajanu thuni daya leni varilalo

English Translation

Pallavi

Without the mercy of Rama,
What is the use of doing anything in this world?

Anupallavi

The slaves of passion and desire , can never,
Understand Sri Rama,
What is the use of their doing anything.

Charanam

1.What is the use of earning lot of money?
What is the use of buying ornaments to wife?
What is the use of being engulfed in passionate play?
If you are not having the mercy of Rama , with lotus eyes.

2.What is the use of doing fire sacrifices?
What is the use of begetting good sons?
What is the use of adopting a son? Is it a wealth?
If you are not having the kindness of Sri Rama.

3.What is the use of building big houses?
What is the use of several lamps hanging in your house?
What is the use of having power to attract many women?
If you are not having the kindness of incomparable Rama.

4.What is the use of becoming a king and ruling?
What is the use of becoming great so that others worship you?
What is the use of feeding others with pouring of ghee?
If you do not get the kindness, of the worshipful Rama.

5.What is the use of being teacher to many people?
What is the use of others praising you as a great one?
What is the use of being able to teach great mantras to others?
If you do not get kindness of Rama, the lord of Thyagaraja.

16.Nalla Pizhaippu

(Good profession)

The sage is whatever may be your profession and whatever may  be your achievements in it , without the mercy  of Lord Rama  it is useless

Dhaya leni  brathukemi  , Dasarathi

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam  Nayaki

 Thalam Jampa

Pallavi

Dhaya leni  brathukemi  , Dasarathi, Rama

Pallavi

Oh Rama son of Dasaratha ,what  is that life  ,

Without your kindness.

Anupallavi

Vayasu nooraina vasudha  nelina Gaani

Anupallavi

Even if you are  hundred years old,

Even if you  happen to rule this earth.

Charanam

Rajadhiraja , rathi raja satha lavanya,

Pooja japamula vela pondhukanedhuta,

Rajilli lokantharanga marmamu thelipi,

Raja cheyani Thyagarajadhi vinutha

Charanam

Oh king of kings who is as pretty as hundred god of love,

At the time when I worship and chant your name,

Unless   you come with friendliness before me ,

Tell me about  the secrets of the world,

And make me agree , Oh Lord    who is worshiped by Thyagaraja,

17.Nayakiyin Viruppam

(The  desire  of  the Lady.)

The sage   imagines his mind as his girl friend and requests it to go and bring her lord. The sage imagines himself as the girl friend  of Lord.

Dasani thodi deve oh manasa

By

Sage Thyagaraja


Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Harikambodhi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Dasani thodi deve oh manasa

Anupallavi

Kanikara mudho kani kara midi,
Chirakalamu sukhamanuvimbha vegame

Charanam

Pathithula broche pattathi karini,
Paramartha matha vasishtanu sarini
Dhyuthi nirjitha satha sambhararini
Threena Thyagaraja hruchcharini

English translation

Pallavi

Go and bring my Lord, Oh mind

Anupallavi

For enjoying pleasure for some time,
By looking at me with love and holding my hand,
Go fast and bring my Lord, Oh mind

Charanam

Please bring the Lord
Who is qualified to save sinners,
Who learnt the truth from sage Vasishta,
Who is hundred times prettier than God of love,
And who is traveling in the mind of Thyagaraja

18.Than yelimai

(Humility   of self)

The sage   tells the lord all his  imaginary mistakes   and  asks the Lord  , how  he will be able   to save him)

Edula kappaduthuvo, Sri Ramachandra

By
Sage Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Aahiri
Thala Mishra chapu

Pallavi

Edula kappaduthuvo, Sri Ramachandra

Anupallavi

Madumaya samsaramanthu thagilina nandru

Charanam

1.Anudhinamu thara thanaya vargadulabha,
Lanamaseyu koraku dhanamulukalikina,
Manujula pogadi aarjinchina vaikamulajoochi,
Thanaku sari lethani piguvuna thirigina nannu

2.Kayaja janaka naa prayamu;ellanu,
Mayapoorithulaina dayadhulachetha,
Sayaparuanthamu kaya klesamu jenda,
Nayenukani mouni dhyeya,
Ninnutheliya leni nannu

3. Sathamani baandhavula jathanu nammi mathiki,
Hithavuleka yo pathitha pavana sam
Thathamu Thyagaraja hitha soora nigarapoo,
Jitha nine charanu jochithi kaani nannu

English translation

Pallavi

How will you save me, Ramachandra

Anupallavi

Me who is caught in the whirlpool of domestic life

Charanam

1.How will you save me Ramachandra,
Me , who gets money by praising the rich,
To look after my wives and children,
And act as if there is none as god as me.

2.Oh Lord Vishnu, the father of God of love,
Except my body getting thinner by working,
For the relatives and family of mine,
I have never bothered to find you out,
And so God , who is worshipped by the silent,
How are you going to save me.

3.Thinking that these relatives are more permanent,
I was not wise, Oh God who uplifts the sinners,
And were you not the one who did good to this Thyagaraja,
Inspite of the fact that Devas were worshipping you,
How are you going to save me.

19.Mumathamum  sammatham

(All three  schools of religion are  Ok)

The saint    who is a great devotee  of Lord Rama  prays to Lord shiva in this   great Krithi.

Devathi Deva  Sadhashiva

By

Saint  Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam  Ramakriya

Thalam  DEsadhi

Pallavi

Devathi Deva  Sadhashiva.

Dhina nadha , Sudhakara  , dahana nayana

Pallavi

Oh God of Gods   who is ever peaceful,

Who has  sun, moon and fire  as his eyes

Anupallavi

Devesa . Pithamaha  , mrugya  sama-,

Dhi  gunaabharana   Gowri  ramana

Anupallavi

He who is searched by  Indra , Brahma and others

And who  has peace and other attributes   as ornament,

And o the God who makes Gowri happy.

Charanam

Bhava  chandragaladha ra  neelagala  ,

BHanu koti  Sangaasa   srisanutha  ,

Thava  pada bhakthim  dehi  dheenabandho,

Dara hasa vadana , Thyagaraja nutha

Charanam

Oh Lord of existence , who wears the crescent of the moon,

Who has a blue  neck , who has the luster of crores of Suns,

Who is being praised by Lord Vishnu, who is the friend of suffering people,

Who is a pleasant smile  in his face , give me Devotion to your divine feet.

20.Ekantha seva

(Person to person worship of God)

Sage  requests Rama to tell him    that he was born in this world   to make the minds of devotees  happy..The Krithi  in which the saint talks personally to his Rama.

Ramabhi Rama manasu ranjilla

By

Sage Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Dhanyasi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Ramabhi Rama manasu ranjilla palkaka Radha

Anupallavi

Eemahini velasina thela sada nadho

Charanam

Bhangaru medi panbupai bhama mani Janaki,
Srunga rinchu koni cheluvonda ninnu kani
Pongusu malle virula poojinchu vela Sri Hari,
Sangeethamu padumni Swami Thyagarajutho.

English Translation

Pallavi

Oh Rama who is pretty , can you not talk sweetly to me

Anupallavi

Do you know why were you were born in this world

Charanam

When the great Lady Janaki sitting on a golden cot,
Having made her up and looking very pretty,
Is worshipping you with jasmine , with great love,
Can you not ask this Thyagaraja to sing a song.

21.Athma Rama  Sevai

(personal service  to Lord   Rama)

The saint says that  people in spite of   great search and struggles   would not be able to see  Rama , who is inside  his mind.

Nadachi Nadachi  jooche

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated  by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam  Karahara  priya

Thalam aadhi

Pallavi

Nadachi Nadachi  jooche ryodhya,

Nagaramu ganare

Pallavi

Though they walked and walked  ,

They could not  see  town of Ayodhya

Anupallavi

Pudamisutha sahayudai chelange,

Poornuni, Athmaramuni gooda

Anupallavi

To join with   the complete one  ,

The Rama of my soul who is with Sita

Charanam

Atta kanula   goorchi  therasi  soothramu.

Batti veliki vesadarulrai,

Puttu  chavuleni  thavu theliyaka,

Pogaeru, Thyagaraja  vinuthuni

Charanam

Those   who slightly close   and open their eyes,

Who count the beads    of their rosary,

Who are acting a form, who do not know

The place where   birth and death is not there,

But who  praise God who is praised by Thyagaraja,

Would not see   that town of Ayodhya.

22,.Manathirkku  Upadesam

(Advice to the mind)

The sage   tells his mind , which knows everything about him,    to study Sri Rama’s life

Mana vyala kimpa radhade

By

Sage Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachhander

Raga Nalina kanthi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Mana vyala kimpa radhade
Marma mellaa thepe thane mnasa,

Anupallavi

Kanudaina Rama Chandruni
Karunanntharangamu thelisina naa

Charanam

Karma Kanda matha drushtuli bhava,
Gahana charulai kasi jendhag,
Kani manava avatharudai,
Kanipinchi nade nadatha Thyagaraju

English Translation

Pallavi

Oh mind, I would tell you all the tricks,
Can you not obey me.

Anupallavi

As I know the merciful thoughts of Ramachandra,
Who is great, can you not obey me.

Charanam

You showed men who strictly follow all rituals,
And are completely immersed in domestic life,
How to get rid of their problems by taking,
An incarnation of man, in Ramavathara,
And Thyagaraja asks to you to realize this,

23.Neeye  THunai

(Only you are my help)

Saint Thyagaraja   says there is no need at all by Vishnu  , but he needs Him. And so he requests Him to recognize his devotion to HIM    and help him.

Paraku chesina nee kemi

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Joojavali
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Paraku chesina neekemi,
Balamu kaligera parathpara

Anupallavi

Suraavanu suraptha maa,
Va Raja rapa gana naa yeda


Charanam

Mudhana needhu paadaravinda,
Mulanu patti mrokka kaletha,
Nidhana roopa tharitha bule,
Thu dara Sri Thyagaraja nutha.

English Translation

Pallavi

Nothing would happen to you,
If you are disinterested,
Because you are divine God

Anupallavi

You are friend of devas and Brahmins,
You are consort of Goddess Lakshmi,
You are pretty and ever young,


Charanam

Did I not happily salute you catching your feet,
Oh God who is the first of everything,
Oh God who has a pretty form,
I do not have any other resort,
And you are charitable by nature,
And why indifference towards this Thyagaraja.

24,Parihasa  Varthai

(Words  making fun)

SAiint asks the Lord  whether   hs words appear to Him as    words of teasing?.He  feels   that when Lord felt that words  of Draupadhi, Vibheeshana  or Prahladha were  not considered funny bt the lord, why this change in attitude.

Parihasaka maa maata

By

Saint Thyagaraja


Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Natakapriya
Thala Roopaka


Pallavi

Parihasaka maa maata,
Pathikurilo pogatinathi

Anupallavi

Verpuna nanu manamuna
Vesampuna ne kori,
Saranagatha rakshaka neenu
Santhathamunu saranande

Charanam

Oka munikai Droupadi
Dwaraka nilayaa saranana,
Oka mataku Vibheeshanudu,
Oor valaloka sarananaka,
Sakaleswara Prahladhudu,
Jaliche sarananaka,
Hithakarudai brochithive,
Thyagarajuni maata.

English Translation

Pallavi

Did my word look funny,
Did the words that I told before many , look funny,

Anupallavi
When I told , please provide me protection,
With fear , assumption and great sorrow,
To you who is the provider of protection to all,
Did my words look funny?

Charanam

When Draupadi due to a sage,
Told protect me Oh God who is in Dwaraka,
When Vibheeshana could not tolerate one word,
And crossed the sea and told, please protect me,
When Prahalda with sorrow told, please protect me.
Did it appear as words of fun to you?
And did you not protect all of them?
And then why , the words of Thyagaraja appears funny to you?

25.Sangeetha Jnanam

(The knowledge   of music)

Sitavara sangeetha jnanamu

BY

Saint  Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam  Deva Gandhari

THalam  DEsadhi

Pallavi

Sitavara sangeetha jnanamu,

Dathavrayavaleraa

Pallavi

Oh groom of Sita , the knowledge  of music,

Should be written  on head by Brahma.

Anupallavi

Geethadhyaki , lobhanishath sara,

Bhootha jeevan mukthudowtaku .

Anupallavi

Oh Rama who is gita and  the essence of  all Upanishads ,

Suppose  some one wants his soul get salvation

Charanam

Aakasa sareeramu  brahmamane ,

Athmaramuni  tha  sari joochuchu,

Lokadhulu   chinmayamane   suswara,

Loludow Thyagaraja sannutha

Charanam

Understanding and verifying that   to the Brahmam,

The sky itself is the body  and is Athmarama  himself,

The people   for practicing  the meditation on music,

With   good musical notes, Oh LOrd prayed by Thyagaraja ,

Would need   it to be written on their head by Brahma himself.

26.Sukha Jeevanam

(Pleasant life)

The great sage says , his only job    is thinking about the feet of consort  of Goddess Lakshmi. He says the Lord g has looked after  several people   who worshipped him and so, he would look after  him also.

Sripathe nee paada chinthaname jeevanamu

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramchander

Raga Nadaswarali
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Sripathe nee paada chinthaname jeevanamu

Anupallavi

Neparadesi naakasi , papave,
Sanuvuna Daya chesi

Charanam

Rajadhi raja ravi kot theja,
Poojinchi ninni indhrathulu Dig,
Rajulai velaya letha,
Rajillu Sri Thyagarajuni ki

English translation

Pallavi

My life is thinking about your feet, Oh consort of Lakshmi

Anupallavi

I am extremely poor and so be kind to me,
And protect me , oh great one

Charanam

Oh King of kings who shines like billions of Suns,
Did not Indra and others by worshipping you,
Become the rulers of directions,
And so Thyagaraja who is all right, thinks only about you.

27.Narada  Guru

(Narada   who is the Guru)

The sage appeals to  the great musician and Guru Narada , at least  to prortect him now. Then he points out   the great acts  of Narada,

Narada Gurusami

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam  Darbaru 

THalam Aadhi

Pallavi

Narada gurusami iganainanan-

Nadarimbavemi yikaravemi

Pallavi

Of teacher Narada , can you not support me,

At least now? Why this famine   for your mercy?

Anupallavi

SAregu Sangeetha yoga Naigma,

Parangathudaina, Parama Pavana

Anupallavi

Oh very pure one who  has found the other bank,

Of   Music , the science  of Yoga, Vedas   and Vedanga

Charanam

Ithihasa puranagama charithamulevari valla kalige  ,

PathiniDanamiyya buddhi sathya bhamakedula galige,

Dyudhijitdasaradhabra ninnu vinaa muniyathula nevaru sakige,

KshithiniTHyagaraja vinuthanammithichintha theerchiprahladhuni  brochina

Charanam

Who could have brought to light  Ithihasas, Puranad, Agamas,

And  divine stories? Who could have  given Sathyabhama ,

The thought of giving   her own husband as   Charity?.

Oh lord whose luster of the body beats  the colour of the cloud,

To  the sages and Yathis , except   you , who is the protection,

In this world this Thyagaraja besides you, Oh sage,

28.Anbenum kopam

(The anger called  love) 

The sage feigns anger at the Lord and asks him, “What is the use  f being slave of your slave?” and tells him, he does not    love   sages any more.

Nee dasanudasudanani  pere yemi balamu

By

Saint Thyagaraju

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam Hameeru Kalyani

Thalam Desadhi

Pallavi

Nee dasanudasudanani  pere yemi balamu

Pallavi

What is the use  of being called as  your slave of slave

 Only for names sake it.

Anupallavi

Pedha  sadhulandhu   neeku premaleka poye

Anupallavi

You have lost your love  towards  poor  Sadhus.

Charanam

1.Sarivarilo  nannu  chowka   jesidhivi  gaani,

Karunimbaleka   neethu  karmamanedhavu gaani

Charanam

1.You  insulted  me  among every one without  any pity,

And told me that this is all due  to your karma.

2.Rosamu  ledhaa ye  ruchira  vaakulu poye,

Dasula  brochithivata Thyagarajilalo.

2.You Told me that  “don’t you  get agitated”,

And all your pretty sweet words vanished,

But   people say  you protected your devotees like Thyagaraja

29. Bhakthiyum  Virakthiyum

(Devotion    and Detachment  )

The sage loks disappointed that   the Lord to him he is devoted  is not at all  bothered   about him.

Emana thichethavo ye menchinavo

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Sahana
Thala Roopaka

Pallavi

Emana thichethavo ye menchinavo

Anupallavi

Na mattala vinavo rama
Na thala vara lemo

Charanam

Yasa mayuvu sad bhakthiyu,
Yekanda chithamu
Su sareera mosangu bhasura
Thyagaraja vinutha

English Translation

Pallavi

What orders have you passed?
What thoughts run in your mind

Anupallavi

Oh Rama , won’t you hear my words,
What is written n my head.

Charanam

Having given fame , long life and great devotion,
A mind which is stable,
And good body to this Thyagaraja,
He is singing this prayers to you,

30.Yethu BHajanai

(Which is worship  by singing?)

The sage says that    singing his praises   with motive  of getting some thing from him is   not worship/

Adhi kathu Bhajana manasa

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Yadu kula Khambothi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Adhi kathu Bhajana manasa

Anupallavi

Yethalonensu dokkati,
Payyedha kalkinathiso nokati

Charanam

Goppa thanamugai yasa,
Kuthsitha vishaya pibhasa,
Meppulagai bahuvesa midi
Yuppathil letharu Thyagaraja vinutha.

English translation

Pallavi

Oh mind that is not Bhajana*
*Mass prayer singing

Anupallavi

What is thought in the mind is one,
And what is got as charity is another

Charanam

Desire for a great position,
Interest in base and bad things,
Putting on acts so that others appreciate
Is this Bhajana, Oh Rama who is sung by Thyagaraja

31. Raman cheitha  Anyayayam

(The  injustice    done by Rama  )

The sage   requests his Lord Rama not to do injustice and not to him as a stranger.He points out that  the Lord had protected many  people who have  done mistakes.

Anyayamu seyakkura Rama Nannu

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Kapi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Anyayamu seyakkura Rama Nannu
Anyunika choodakura Rama nayeda

Anupallavi

Yenno thappulu kalavarini
Rajanya neevu brochinavu kanu kanu

Charanam

1.Jada bharadhudu jinga sishuvu nethi,
Padalika deerchaka lethaa,
Kadalini munigina girinoka,
Koormamu kapadaga letha

2.Pudammini pandava drohini,
Dharma puthrudu brova lethaa,
Nadimi prayamuna Thyagarajanutha,
Na poorvaju patha theerpa letha.

English translation

Pallavi

Do not do injustice, Lord Rama,
Do not see me as a stranger , Rama

Anupallavi

You have saved many people,
Who have done mistakes several times

Charanam

1.Did not sage Jada Bharatha,
Save the little one of a deer,
Did you not become a tortoise,
Put the mountain properly and save,

2.Did not Dharmaputhra save ,
Those who came to trouble him in forest,
And did not his elder brother try,
To change the path of Thyagaraja.

32.Matha  Bedham

(Difference   of opinion)

The sage  indicates  that though he does not have differing opinions,  he would get   happiness  only by worshipping Rama

Ithara deivamula ilanu Soukhyama Rama

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Chaya tharangini
Thala Roopaka

Pallavi

Ithara deivamula ilanu Soukhyama Rama

Anupallavi

Matha bedhamu leka sada madhini marulukonna dhana

Charanam

Manasu thelisi brochinanu,
Marachinanu Neeva Rama,
Dhana vadana Tharunamithe,
Thyagaraja sannutha

English translation

Pallavi

Oh Rama , would I get happiness by other Gods?

Anupallavi

For me who does not have difference of opinions,
And having passion only for you

Charanam

If you save me by knowing my mind,
Or completely forget about it,
This is the time to say,
Thyagaraja is yours Rama.

33.Sri Varada Rajar        

(Lord Varada Raja of Kanchipuram)

The saint  went to visit one of his relations called  “Upanishad Brahmam”  in Kanchipuram.  Aty that time , he  composed this song praising  Lord Varadaraja.

Varadaraja pahi maam

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R. Ramachander

Raga Mohana
Thala Roopaka

Pallavi

Varadaraja Pahi maam,
Sada mudham dehi

Anupallavi

Kari gireesa shiva surapathi
Sarasija bhavadhi vinutha

Charanam

Deva devanyadha gather nasthi Sri pern,
Devi sahitha karunakara Sri Thyagaraja vinutha

English translation

Pallavi

Please save me Varadaraja
Please always give me devotion to you.

Anupallavi

He who sits on a elephant like hill,
He who is worshipped by Shiva and Indra,
He who is worshipped by Brahma sitting on a lotus.

Charanam

Oh God, I do not have any one else,
Except you merciful one with Perumdevi*,
And so says Thyagaraja.
* Tamil name of Goddess Brahadamba

34.Geethartham

(The meaning  of Geetha)

The saint says  that import of Geetha and the joy   got of Music is in Rama.He gives an example of Lord Hanuman for it.

Geetharthamu sangeethanandamu

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Churutti
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Geetharthamu sangeethanandamu,
Needhavuna choodara , oh manasa

Anupallavi

Seethapathi charanabhjamu nidu konna,
Vtathma juniki bhaga thelusuraa,

Charanam
Harihara bhaskara kaaladhi karmamu,
Lanu madhamula marmamula neringina,
Harivara roopudu hara haya vinudhudu,
Vara Thyagaraja Varadhdu sukhiraa.

English translation

Pallavi

Oh mind ,see the meaning of Gita,
And the joy of music in Rama.

Anupallavi

This is well known to Lord Hanuman,
Who caught hold of the feet of consort of Sita

Charanam

He assumed a tiny form though,
He knew religions worshipping Shiva, Vishnu and Sun god,
And also knew the dharma with change of time,
He is the form of boon of Rama , he worships Lord Shiva also,
And would shower his blessings on Thyagaraja

35.Dhanushkoti

(The sacred water  in Rameswara)

The sage asks himself why he is wandering here and there when one crore of sacred waters in  Dhanushkoti.He says similarly   in Rama all other Gods are there  .

Kodi Nathulu

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam Thodi

Thalam Aadhi

Pallavi

Kodi nathulu   danushkodilo undaga,

Yediki  thirigeve , oh Manasa

Pallavi

When there are crores  of rivers  joining,

In   your  Kundalini(Dhanushkodi) , why are  you wandering  here and there  , oh mind.

Anupallavi

Soodiga, Shyama Sundara Moorthi nee,

Madi madikki jooche Maharajalukku

Anupallavi

Why are they who are  great royal sages ,

Who keep on looking at   the blue coloured pretty god

Charanam

Ganga noopurambunanu janinchenu,

RAngani Kaveri  Gani  rajillenu,

Ponguchu Sri Raghu Nadhuni prema tho,

Bogade Thyagaraju manavi vinave  ,

Charanam

The river ganges originated from feet of Lord Vishnu,

The  river Cauvery became great   after   seeing Ranganatha,

And so please hear   the request   of Thyagaraja  ,

Who sings with love praising, the Lord of Raghu clan

36.Deivam yenge?

(Where is  God?)

The sage   asks how can God  be not there  for atheists, when great people have told that “God is there.” He believes that with a pure mind when he sings that God  would  appear before  him.

Kathanuvariki kathu kathini moralinidu

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Thodi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Kathanuvariki kathu kathini moralinidu,
Peddhala matalu nedapatha melano

Anupallavi

Athambu chekkillache muthugaru momu chooda,
Budhi kal kinatti mavatha ravathemiraa.

Charanam

Nithura nirakarinchi muthuka thambura patti,
Sudha maina manasuche suswaramutho,
Pathu thappaka bhajinche Bhaktha balanamuseyu,
Thathaya salivi neevu Thyagaraja sannutha.

English translation

Pallavi

For those who say, it is not there, it is not there,
But would the words of the great ones,
Who said it is there, become false.

Anupallavi

Why is it he does not come before us,
Though we yearn to see his cheeks which shines like mirror.

Charanam

Forsaking sleep , holding the gem like Thambura,
With a pure mind and with very clear notes,
And without mistakes we sing about him with devotion,
He who protects devotees would appear before Thyagaraja.

37.Deiva Bhakthi

(Devotion to God)

The Sage asks God in whose form he is  and whether in feminine or  masculine form   or the five elements.

Ye dhavanura nila kada neeku

By
Sage Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Kalyani
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Ye dhavanura nila kada neeku
Yenchi jjota naka padavu

Anupallavi

Sita Gauri Vageeswari yanu
Sthri roopamulandha Govinda.

Charanam

Bhoo kamalarka nila nabhamanthu,
Loka kodulantha,
Sri Garudaku Thyagaraja kararchitha,
Shiva Madhava Brahmadula yanthaa.

English translation

Pallavi

Where are you , I am not able to find out,
In spite of search, where do you live?

Anupallavi

Oh Govinda, are you with feminine forms like,
Site , Parvathi and Saraswathi

Charanam

Are you the invisible one who lives in
Earth , Sun, water, air and ether or are you,
One of Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma,
Who are worshipped by Thyagaraja like Garuda.

38.Nal Vazhi

(Good path)

Sage advises us not to engage in bad acts and reminds us that what we get  is according to our Karma.

Chede budhi maanuraa

By

Sage Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Ataana
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Chede budhi maanuraa

Anupallavi

Ide pithra mevaro choodaraa

Charanam

Bhoo vasiki thagu balamu kalukanani
Bhudhulu palka vinaletha manasa
Sri vaasu deva sarva nanusunu,
Chindinnchara Thyagaraja vinuthuni.

English translation

Pallavi

Do not spend your brain in unnecessary things

Anupallavi

See to whom you are giving it

Charanam

Oh mind , have you heard learned people,
Telling that those in earth would get things according to Karma,
Think that Lord Vasudeva everything,
Says Thyagaraja.

39.Bhakthi Pareekshai

(The test for devotion)

The Sage asks Rama, why he is angry with him , who is a devotee. He says he cannot tolerate His anger.

Thasala melara saketha Rama

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Marga hindolam
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Thasalla melara saketha Rama

Anupallavi

Valasi bhakthi margamu thonu ninnu,
Varninchu chunna na pai

Charanam

Endu pothu nenemi jeyudhunu,
Ethsoda moraa pettu thunu,
Thantha nalatho brothu pova lena
Thala jalaraa Thyagaraja vinutha

English translation

Pallavi

Why are you angry Saketha Rama

Anupallavi

On me who  is adopting the path of devotion,
Is describing you

Charanam

Where will I Go? What will I Do?
With whom can I appeal?
Should my actions be like that,
Of an actor , who spends his time like that?
Asks Thyagaraja

40.Pini poruthal

(Tolerating   Sufferings)

The sage is worried that  Brahmins have lost their way    and is sad that the great God  who  has learnt  chants to   avoid hunger and sleep   seems not to be bothered

Sri kantha neyeda baladhi bala

By

Saint Thyaga raja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Bhava Priya
Thala Desadhi

Pallavi

Sri kantha neyeda baladhi bala
Chela kanga letha vaatha

Anupallavi

Bagari nutha nee vari bhalaa
Balamuna theliya letha

Charanam

Kaka thaithyu neka sarmuna neya,
Kanja jasthramai paraa letha,
Srikara dwijulai thaari neruga leni
Chintha neeku dosa demi Thyagaraja nutha

English Translation

Pallavi

Did not the chants Bala and Athibala,
Greatly shine in you, Oh consort of Lakshmi

Anupallavi

Did you who is worshipped by Indra,
Not know the strength and weakness of your people.

Charanam

Did not the arrow you sent against Kakasura,
Get altered in to the great Brahmasthra,
Why is that you are not worried that ,
The Brahmins have lost their way, says Thyagaraja.

41.Thirai Vilaguma

(Would the curatains get removed?)

The Saint asks the God Venkatesa of Thirupathi to remove the    screen of competition, which spoils the llife  of people.

Therathiyakka Ratha naloni

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga gholibhandhu
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Therathiyakka Ratha naloni
Thirupathi Venkata Ramana mathsaramanu

Anupallavi

Parama purusha darmartha mokshamulu,
Paratholu sunnathi naaloni

Charanam

1. Mathsamu aagali kalamuche -magnamaina reethiyunnathi,
Athsamaina deepa sannithini maru -kattapadi sosi nattunathi

2.Iravondhaka bhujiyinchu samayamuna –eekathakulu reethiyunnathi,
Hari dhyanamu seyuvela chithamu- anthya juvadakku poyi nattunnathi

3.Vaguramani theliyaka mruga ganamulu -vachi thagulu reethi yunnathi,
Vegame nee nadhamunanu sarinchithi –Thyagaraja nutha mada mathsara manu


English translation

Pallavi

Oh Venkatramana of Thirupathi, can you not please,
Remove the screen of competitiuon from my mind.

Anupallavi

Becase thus competition drives far ,far away,
The three purusharthas-Dharma, wealth and salvation.

Charanam

1.My state is like that of a fish biting the hook through ignorance,
And competition prevents the divine light from spreading everywhere.

2.My state is like being choked by a fly when I am eating good food,
As my mind which is meditating on Hari , goes and sits in the hut of a bad man.

3.My state is like that of the ignorant animals getting caught by the net,
And so Thyagaraja requests, remove the screen of competition and wrong notions.

43.SAmarthya Sali

(The very clever one)

The saint says that events do not happen due to our cleverness   but due to   the will  of Lord Rama

Manasaa mana samarthya memi oo

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Vardhanee
Thala Roopaka

Pallavi

Manasaa mana samarthya memi oo

Anupallavi

Vinu Saketha Raju viswa mane rathamunekki,
Thana Samarthyamuche thane nadi pinchine

Charanam

Alanadu Vasishtadhulu pattamu kettedu palu,
Kulavini vegame bhooshanamula nesakini kaikanu,
Palumaru jagambulu kallala nina ravi jooni maya
Valavesi Thyagaraja varadhudu thaa janaka lethaa

English translation

Pallavi

Oh mind, what is our ability?

Anupallavi

Listen, The Saketha Rama drove his chariot ,
All over the world by his own ability.

Charanam

What happened To Kaikeyi , who gave her chain to Mandhara,
When she told about Vasishta fixing the coronation of Rama?
What happened to Sugreeva , who told lies when Vali was killed*?
Oh Rama did you not throw the your enchanted net,
And made things happen in a way , opposite to what they thought?
And This Thyagaraja knows that your blessings are always there for him.

* Sugreeva pretended he was sorry at Vali’s death

44.Yethu Upanishath?

(Which is upanishath?)

The sage says that   his birth is not in vain   but for describing   the God.

Ye paniko jaminchithi nani

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Asaveri
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Ye paniko jaminchithi nani
Nee venndhsu valathu Sri Rama Nenu

Anupallavi

Sri pathi Sri Rama chandraa nee,
Chinthaniki theliyadha nenu

Charanam

Valmeekadhi munulu narulu ninnu
Varninchiri naayacha deheerunaa,
Melmiya undu sadbhakthulu
Methsudhare Thyagarajanutha nenu

English Translation

Pallavi

Oh Rama , please do not ever think,
For what job was I born in this world,

Anupallavi

Oh Consort of Lakshmi , Oh Ramachandra,
This is not something that is not known to your mind

Charanam

Though great sages like Valmiki have described you,
Would I be with no desire to describe you?
Would not great devotees appreciate me?
Oh Rama who is being praised by Thyagaraja.

45. BHajanayum gaanamum

(Musical prayer    and music)

The sage is sad that he has not been able to see  experts in songs of prayer of his God. He feels that people are getting divided by the Gods they worship and philosophies   they follow.

Nee bhajana gana rasikula

By

Saint Thyagraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Nayaki
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Nee bhajana gana rasikula
Nenendu Ghana raa Rama

Anupallavi

Sri bhava sarojaa sanadi sasi,
Mano Ramana vandhya ilalo

Charanam

Saguna nirgunamula nijamudhapparala,
Shanmadhamula marma mashta sidhula,
Vakalu soopa sandhasilla kandini
Varaanan Thyagaraja vinutha

English translation

Pallavi

Oh Rama , why have I not seen,
The connoisseurs of your songs of devotion

Anupallavi

Have you not been saluted by Lord Shiva,
Lord Brahma, Indra and others

Charanam

They are trying to find the superiority,
Of worshipping you with a form or as formless,
They are trying to find out about the six types of religious approaches*.
And they are trying to get the eight different occult powers,
And would they able to be able to enjoy your sweetness,
Which can give them all they want to know, says Thyagaraja

* Worship of Vishnu, Shiva, Shakthi, Ganesa, Subrahmanya and Sun God.

46,BHakthiyum parivum

(devotion  and mercy)

The saint says that it is not proper for god  to disregard him,before people  who are like him. He says he has never  parted with the lOrd Rama   and so he does not merit this treatment.

Maryadha kadhaya manu bhavathe mayya

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

Raga Bhairavi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Maryadha kadhaya manu bhavathe mayya

Anupallavi

Saivaaralalo Nannu sokase yudella
Harihari neeandi karuna nidhiki

Charanam

Dhanavara lanyulane thara thamyamu munu
Kanudaina Dasaradhike kalathani keerthi kathaa
Ninnu paya nerani nannu brova kundethi
Dhanadasa kudaku Thyagaraja poojitha

English translation

Pallavi

Leaving me out like this is not respectable, Rama

Anupallavi

It is not proper for you Lord Vishnu, who is treasure of mercy,
To disregard me in front of people like me

Charanam

Don’t you make comparison between your man and others,
Perhaps you who are the son of Dasaratha ,
Does not think me as one of yours,
And as I have never ever parted from you and always worshiped you,,
You should not make me suffer like this , says Thyagaraja

47.Graha balan

(The effect of planets)

The saint says  that there  is no point in knowing   about the strength of  nine planets. It would be better to know  the strength   of Blessing I of Rama.According to him those   who constantly meditae  on Rama   would not bother   about the power of planets.

Graha balamemi rama, anugraha balame balamu

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Revagupthi
Thala Desadhi

Pallavi

Graha balamemi rama, anugraha balame balamu

Anupallavi

Graha balamemi thejo mayavi,
Grahamunu dhyaninchu variki nava

Charanam

Graha peetala Pancha papamula naa,
Grahamulu kala kamaadhi ripula nee,
Grahamu jeyu Harini bhajinchu,
Thyagarajaniki Rasikagresaruluku

English translation

Pallavi

Oh Rama, what is the power of planets,
Only the power of your blessings is real power

Anupallavi

What is the power of the nine planets,
To those who meditate on the statue of God.

Charanam

My planets and the five type of sins incite,
The six enemies like passion and anger,
But these can be easily won over by singing about Hari,
By Thagraja and those who pray like him.

48.SAngeetha jnanam

(The knowledge   of music)

The sage tells that   without devotion, knowledge   of music  would not lead you in good path .The saint confirms  that this is more important than knowledge   of religion.

Sangeetha gnanamu Bhakthi vinaa

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Dhanyasi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Sangeetha gnanamu Bhakthi vinaa,
San margamu kaladhe , Oh Manasa

Anupallavi

Birungi natesa sameeraja kadajama
Thanga narathathu lupasinche

Charanam

Nyayaa nyayamu thelusunu, jagaulu,
Maya maya mani thelusunu , Durguna,
Kaya jathi shad ripula jayinche
Karyamu thelusunu, Thyagarajuniki.

English translation

Pallavi

Oh mind , the knowledge of music,
Without devotion is not the right path.

Anupallavi

Was not this music made a mode of worship,
By Bringi, Lord Nataraja, Hanuman, Agasthya and Mathanga.

Charanam

This Thyagaraja knows what is just and unjust,
He knows that this world id full of illusion,
He knows the method of winning over bad aspects lie,
Anger, passion, miserliness, desire and competition.

49.Kattupattavan Kadhai

(The story  of the God who was tied)

The saint requests his mind to pray without break    that Damodhara   who was tied and come out of the mire  of pain and suffer=ing.

Kada thera ratha manasa

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Thodi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Kada thera latha manasa

Anupallavi

Edaleka bhajana chesi nee,
Edakalku nijamu thappurala thelisi

Charanam

Kala chitha loukikamanu srung
Kalamanthu thagalalakaye yuloo,
Kala pathiniki nija dhasuda
Velasillu Thyagaraja mada vini

English Translation

Pallavi

Oh mind , can you not get out of this mire,

Anupallavi

Can you not without break sing prayers,
And know what is right and what is wrong.

Charanam

Can you not become real slave to Krishna,
Who was tied to the mortar and not get chained,
To the path followed by bad people,
And follow the words of Thyagaraja.

50.Dhana  Dharma

(The dharma    of Charity)

The saint recommends doing of charity with control of mind.He asks what is the use of offering Panaka by a Brahmin who lives  in the street full of muslims a and what is the use of singing  the compositions of  Thayagraja elsewhere   but not in front of Rama.

Samayamu thelisi punya mularjinchini

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Asaveri
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Samayamu thelisi punya mularjinchini
Thanikudundi yemi poyyemi

Anupallavi

Samatha thodi dharmamu jayame kani
Kramamutho manavini vinane Oh Manasa

Charanam

1.Saramela kavithala vini verri vadu
Santhosha padiyemi padagemi
Cheradesi kutti kannulu bhaguga
Korchiyundenemi therasiyundenemi

2.Thuraga veedhilo vipruniki panaka pooja,
Neraga chesi yemi cheyakanemi
Daralonu dhana kotlakku yajamanudu
Thaiya maihenemi lobhiyayithenmi

3.Pdamu Thyagaraja nuthanipai kani
Padithenemi yetchithenemi
Yethanu Sri rama bhakthiyuleni nara janm
Methiyemi yetha kunidinanemi.

English Translation

Pallavi

What is the presence or absence of rich people,
Who do not earn punya* at the proper time.
*Deeds that are blessed by God.

Anupallavi

Oh mind, victory is achieved by Dharma with mind control,
And so follow this in a proper way.

Charanam

1.What is the use of a mad man becoming happy or sad,
By hearing sweet songs which have enriched meaning,
What is the use of blind broad eyes being fully open or closed,

2.What is the use of doing or not doing Panaka* worship,
For a Brahmin in the street full of Muslims,
What is the use of a man owning crores of rupees,
But in death bed being miser or spendthrift
A mixture of Jaggery water, dried ginger and ghee.

3.What is the use of singing the words of Thyagaraja,
Or crying if it is not done before Sri Rama,
What is use of being born or not born as a man,
If they do not have devotion to Sri Rama.

51.Raga Rasamrutham

(The nectar like  juice  of Raga )

There is a story that once sage Narada came to visit  Saint Thyagaraja once, and after   hearing him sing , left a book called’suvararnavam”  . That night it seems Narada   came in the dream of the saint and told him  about perfect music by reading that book. This song is suppose to describe his ecstacy on reading that book

Raga sudha rasa

By
Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by
P.R.Ramachander

Raga Aandholika
Thala desh aadhi

Pallavi

Raga sudha rasa panama chesi rajillave manasa

Anupallavi

Yaga yoga thyaga bhoga phala mosange

Charanam

Sadashiva mayamagu nada onkara svara,
Vidhulu jeevan mukthalu ani ,
Thyagaraju theliya.

English translation

Pallavi

Having drunk the nectar like juice of raga,
Have you not become happy?

Anupallavi

Which is the result of ritual, yoga, sacrifice , and enjoyment together.

Charanam

Thyagaraja knows that the music,
Of the sound of “Om” which is,
Completely occupied by Sadashiva,,
Is enjoyed by the liberated souls.

52.Murayidum murai

(the method   of making request)

The sage asks the Lord why in spite of saluting him often, he does not show mercy to him.The sage thinks perhaps my method is not as good as Druva or Prahladha.

Mari mari ninne moralida nee

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Kambodhi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Mari mari ninne moralida nee
Manasuna daya rathu

Anupallavi

Karimoravini sara guna chana neeku,
Karana memi sarvandaryami

Charanam
Karunatho dhruvani kethda nilsina kadha vinnanayya,
Suraripu thanayunikai nara mrugamena soochanale maiya,
Marasiyunnavana charuni brochina mahima thelubhavayya
Tharanu velayu Thyagaraja sannutha tharamukhadhikane vinanayya

English translation

Pallavi

Mercy is not coming in to your mind,
Even when I again and again entreat you.

Anupallavi

Oh God who is in every being,
What was the great hurry to go,
When the elephant requested you.

Charanam

I have heard of the story of your standing with mercy before Dhruva,
What is the secret of your becoming man-lion to help the son of enemy of devas,
Please also tell me why you saved an ungrateful monkey wandering in forest,
And so please understand that it is not good for you not to be pleased with Thyagaraja .

53.Panchanatha  pura Vaasi  Sri Rama

(Lord Rama is one who lives  in Thiruvayyar)

The sage gives  a glowing description of the city  of Thiruvayyaru.He tells Rama that he is happy  that lord Rama   has chosen to live in this town bur t enquires    from the Lord whether he is satisfied.

Muripemu kalike katha Rama san

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Mukaari
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Muripemu kalike katha Rama san
Muninutha kari varadha Sri Rama

Anupallavi

Parama purusha jagadheesa vara mrudhu bhasha,
Suguna mani kosa, neeku

Charanam
1.Eeduleni malayamaruthamuche koodina Cauvery thadamathu,
Medale methalatho srungaramu minthsu sadana mulalo,
Vedusu boosukulakini hothrulai Veda goshamula che nudhiyimba,
Jooda chivudu koru yogiya maina sundaramaku puramu dorikinanuthsu

2.Sakala sukandha raja sumamulu salalitha magu kokila nadhamulu,
Sukhamukha sanakadhula nuthamaina sura tharuvulu kaliki,
Nigadamanthu vani koluva surapathi neelamani nibha sarera nedu,
Pragadamaina nava rathna kachitha haataka mandapa vasamu kali kelanuthsu

3.Eemamahilo sokasaina Chola seemayanthu varamaina panchanadha pura,
Dhamuni chendhanu vasiyinh sudakai neemathi nendhsaka,
Kama janaka Thyagaraja sannutha nama bhavana thanaya vidhrutha charana,
Kshemamuka varthillu natti puramuna neeku.

English translation

Pallavi

Are you satisfied Rama,
Who was prayed by great sages,
And who took care of the elephant

Anupallavi

Are You satisfied Rama,
Who is the divine Purusha, the lord of universe, and who speaks softly,
And who is the place where all the good is there.

Charanam

1.Are you satisfied Rama because you are housed in this pretty town,
Which is incomparable, which is in the banks the river Cauvery with sweet breeze,
Which has places to sit, houses with more than one floor which shine by prettiness,
Which has Brahmins, Agnihothris and full of sound of Vedas and prayers,
And where Lord Shiva who wants to see you is there.

2.Are you satisfied oh Rama , that you were made
To live here in the golden gem studded Mandap,
In this Thiruvaiyaru where Sweet smelling flowers abound,
Where birds like the Koel sing, Where divine trees which would
Surprise even sages like Sanaka are there,
And where in front of your place the goddess of learning is serving you.

3.Are you happy to live in his blessed Thiruvaiyaru which is,
In the pretty Chola desa of this great earth,
Where you have agreed to live near live near God Pranatharthihara,
And want to live here comfortably for many more years to come,
Oh Rama Oh God who is served by Hanuman, the son of wind God.

54.Ksheera  SAgara  SAyanan

(He who sleeps on the ocean  of milk)

The sage Addresses Lord Vishnu who sleeps on the ovean of milk to remember   him . He then quotes instances where he has dashed with great speed to help his   devotees.

Ksheera sagara sayana , nannu

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Deva gandhaari
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Ksheera sagara sayana , nannu
Chintha petta valenaa Rama

Anupallavi

Varana rajuni brovanu vegame
Vacchinathi vinnnanura Rama

Charanam

Naree maniki cheeralichanathi nade vinnanura Rama
Theerdev Ramadasuni bandhamu theerchinathi vinnanuraa
Neerajakshikai neerathi dhatina nee keerthini vinnanura
Tharaka Rama Thyagarajunutha dhaya thonelu koraa Ramaa


English translation

Pallavi

Oh Rama, who lies down on the ocean of milk.
Can you not keep me in your memory.

Anupallavi

I have heard  about your speedily coming,
To save the king of elephants

Charanam

I have heard about the act of your giving Sari to a gem of a lady,
I have heard of your putting an end of imprisonment of the brave Ramadasa
I have heard of the fame of your crossing the sea for the sake of the fish eyed one,
All this being the flow of your mercy, Thyagaraja requests you to remove his worries.

55.Bhaktha  Lakshnam

(The signs   of a devotee)

Saint  tells us the  properties and  signs of a devotee  of Sitharama. He will be sarisfied with what he  gets, will not have any deceit  , will not tell about his greatness   and so on.

Bhakthuni charithramu vinave

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Pyakadai
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Bhakthuni charithramu vinave
Manasa Sitha Rama

Anupallavi

Aasakthi kela thakoru suji,
Van mukthudai yanandhamu nondhu

Charanam

1.Japathapamulutha jesithi nanaraathu adhi kakka mari
kapadathmudu manamai palkaraathu,
Upamadanukku lekayunda vale nani oorayura thiruga ka raathu,
Chapala chithudai yalusu thulapai saregu parama kaaraatha ne hari

2.Bhava vibhavamu nija mani yemcha karaathu adhikaramari
Shiva Madhava bhedha mucheyaka rathu
Bhuvanamanthu thane yoga yuda nani pomki potta saaka rathu
Bhvanaath maja drudhamou Sithapathi pada mulanuye marathathu hari

3.Rajasa thamasa gunamulku karathu athikaakanusu
Vyaja munanu raaletha nakaaraa thu
Rajayoga margamu nee chithamu raja chooda vida vakaarathu
Raja shikamaniyai nathyaga Raja sakuni mara varaathane Hari.

English translation

Pallavi

Oh mind Please hear the story of ,
The devotee of Sita Rama
Anupallavi

Giving away as much as he can,
And getting satisfied with what he has,
He gets the happiness of a soul getting salvation


Charanam

1.He does the chanting and meditation properly,
Does not have any deceit in his mind,
Does not go from place to place and say there is none like him,
Does not with a feeble mind get attached to home and wealth, Oh Hari

2.He would not think that what is happening is the truth,
Also he will not have differences between Vishnu and Shiva in his mind,
He does not spend time by telling he is the only respectable one
He never forgets devotion to the feet caught hold by Hanuman, Oh Hari

3.He does not get the base and regal qualities at any time,
And thinks that everything comes to us due to Karma,
He keeps the method of Raja yoga in his mind and thinks of God,
And will never forget Rama who is the friend of Thyagaraja of Thiruvarur.

56.Sudha BHakthi

(Pure devotion)

The saint ask the Lord , where  he will search for him .He tells a few places   where  He would not be there  like people with evil mind or who speak evil words.

Ne nendhu vedakuthuraa-Hari

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Raga Hari Khambhodhi
Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Ne nendhu vedakuthuraa-Hari

Anupallavi

Aanalku momunavaari mora,
Laara kinchi rani

Charanam

Kalushathmudow dush karmayuthdow,
Palu mari durbhasiyow ilalo,
Bhakthagre sarulalo veshiyow,
THyaga Raja poojitha

English translation

Pallavi

Oh Hari ,Where will I search for you?

Anupallavi

You who would not come,
Even if Brahma, with four heads calls you.

Charanam

Where would I search for you Hari, who is worshipped by Thyagaraja
In this place where people are having a very vulgar mind,
People who do evil acts and people who speak evil words are there,
And in this place where people act as if they are your devotees.

57.Kudumbha Jeevanam

(Life of the family) 

The sage asks Lord Rama who protected Sugreeva from his brother and  Vibheeshana from his brother, why he is not giving similar  protection to him  from his brother  who had been troubling him.

Na moraala  kimpavemi  Sri Rama

By

Saint Thyagaraja

Translated by

P.R.Ramachander

Ragam  Deva Gandhari

Thalam  Roopakam

Pallavi

Na moraala  kimpavemi  Sri Rama

Pallavi

Oh Rama  , would not you bother  to hear my requests

Anupallavi

Nee mahimalu  vini vini  Ne,

Nentho  nera  nammithi

Anupallavi

Hearing and hearing about your greatness,

I believed in you very greatly.

Charanam

1.Oka vasanaruda landaus-,

Hodharu  badhalu  tha-,

Laka   molalidabrochithivi,

THanaku  Sugreevamu  gaadhaa.

Charanam

1.When persons roaming  in the forest  ,

Was not able to bear    the problems  ,

Caused  by his brother  and appealed to you  ,

Did you not protect him ? Did it not  ,

Become  ornaments to your neck?

2.Oka nisicharudanna mata,

Lorvaka   charananaa,

Sukha vachanamulo  naadhu,

Palukulanni  Vibheeshanamaa.

2.When a  Rakshasa who was  roaming at night ,

Unable to bear the  words spoken by his brother  ,

Appealed to you saying  “You are  my only protection”,

Did his voice appear   sweet to you like the voice of the parrot,

Does only my appeals to you   appear  to  be   fearsome.

3.Poosalu goorchina tatuvale,

Pooni bajinchaka ,

Aasalu gala Thyagaraju,

Dasaudanuchu  delisi

3.Even after  knowing that   this Thyagaraja ,

Wishes  to pray you permanently  ,

Just like  golden beads are arranged ,

On a thread and that he is your devotee.