Marriage Songssouth indian wedding.

 The Brahmin marriages of Tamil Nadu consist of several rituals which are not prescribed by the Vedas. Such rituals are not, naturally accompanied by Vedic Manthras. Examples of such rituals are Kasi Yathrai, Oonjal, Nalangu etc.

To make these rituals interesting such rituals are accompanied by songs sung by the guests assembled to attend the marriage. This also gives rise to lot of merriment and mirth and gives a chance to the talented budding singers a chance to exhibit their talents. These special songs which were known to our grand mother's generation slowly disappeared and gave way to suitable film music. But even that has gone out of fashion nowadays, where people are in a hurry to complete the rituals as fast as possible.

Aadeer Oonjal

Aadi Poorathu Uditha

Aadinar Oonjal Sarvesar

Aananda Thiru Nadanam

Aanandam Aanandam Aanandame

Aanandam Aanandam Aayenamana

Bhojanam Cheyya Varungo

Chandra Mathiyo Ival

Chaya Kuruchigalam Menakshikku

Dandha Mukhanukku

Dina Mani Vamsoddhara

Gowri Kalyana Vaibhogame

Kandha Malar Mel Urayum

Kanmani Rugmani

Kannunjal Aadinaal Kanchana Malai

Kannunjal Aadugindral

Karumbhana Mozhi Thanile

Koti Manmatha Roopanukku Shobhanam

Ksheerabdhi Sayanane

Laali Sri Raghu Vamsa

Madhura Puri Easwariyal

Malai Chathinaal Kodhai

Malayadwaja Suthani

Mangalam Cher Puduvayin

Mani Malai Malar Malai

Manmathanukku Malai Ittaye

Nalangida Varum Raja

Nalanguidugiral Meeana Lochani

Neeradina Sri Rama

Palale Kal Alambi

Raghu Kula Chandranukku

Rama Jaya Jaya

Rathna Mani Mandapathil

Rathna Oonjalil

Sandegam Kolladhe

Seetha Kalyaname Vaibbhogame

Soma Surya Nayana

Vaarai Rukmani Yen Mugathai Parai

Vadana Dyuthi Jitha Soma

Varum Varum Nalangida

Yen Prana Rajare

Yengal Sambandi

Aadeer Oonjal

Translated by P. R. Ramachander

[These Songs are sung when the bride and groom swing for the first time on a decorated swing.]

Pallavi

Aadeer Oonjal

Charanam

1. Vindai nirai chem. Pavazha kaalgal natti,

Vilangum uyar marakathathaal kodungai pooti,

Andamulla nava rathna oonjal meedhe,

Abhimanyuvudan vathsalayum aadir oonjal

2. Indiranum, sasiyum one vadam thottu aatta,

Chandra shekaranum Umayum Oru vadam thottu aatta,

Thumburu naradarum veenaigal meeta,

Sri Ranga nadtharudan aadeer oonjal

English Translation

Pallavi

Please swing in the swing,

Charanam

1. After erecting the magical pillars of red coral,

After hanging the hooks made of emerald,

On the very pretty swing made of nine gems,

Abhimanyu and Vathsala, please swing.

2. One side swung by Indra and his wife Sasi,

And another side swung by Lord Shiva and Parvathi,

With the accompaniment of Veena played by Dumburu and Narada,

Please swing along with Sri Ranga Natha.

Aadi Poorathu Uditha

[Laali songs are sung after Oonjal like Pachai podal Vara Poojai etc.]

Raga Kurinchi

Thala Mishra Chapu

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. Aadi porathu uditha Aandal nam kodhai,

Aani arangarudan Oonjal aadinal appothe

2. Padi pamalai thantha patta piran kothai,

Pani arangarudan aadinaal Appothe

English Translation

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. Then itself our Kodhai born in the month of aadi,

In the star of pooram swung along with Ranganatha

2. That Kothat who sung about the great crowned God,

Swung then itself with Sri Ranga Natha.

Aadinar Oonjal Sarvesar

[These Songs are sung when the bride and groom swing for the first time on a decorated swing.]

Raga Plaval

Thalam Chapu

Pallavi

Aadinar oonjal sarvesar,

Padinaar Naradar, Veenai vilasar

Charanam

1. Kodi bhaskara prakasar,

Kondaduvar ulle nindru aadum eesar,

2. Dasargal klesa vinasar,

Thadathagai thannai thazhuva ullasar

3. Poorvathil Kanchana malai,

Poorna thapsugal cheyathathinale

4. Raja kumarani ppole

Rathinam izhaitha por peedathin mele

5. Kalyana kolangal kondu,

Kadai kannal adikkadi deviyai kkandu

6. Arpudha aabharanangal poondu,

Aalasya puri rajan vasalil nindru,

7. Peethambarangal tharithu,

Pinne veniyil sugantham mudinthu

8. Manda hasamay chirithu,

Madurai Meenakshi priyalai ninaithu.

English Translation

Pallavi

Please swing in the swing,

God of all, sang Narada,

Who is an expert in playing Veena.

Charanam

1. He who shines like billions of Suns,

He who dances in the mind of his devotees

2. He who destroys troubles of his devotees,

The joys one who embraced Thadathagai

3. Because Kanchana Mala did,

Great penance in early days

4. Like a princes,

Sitting on a gem studded plank

5. Having dressed up for marriage,

He sees again and again the Goddess

6. He is wearing wonderful ornaments,

And stood in front of the king of Madurai

7. He was wearing yellow silk,

And had decorated his tuft with scented flowers

8. He was smiling very softly,

Thinking about his darling Madurai Meenakshi.

Aananda Thiru Nadanam

[These Shobane songs were sung when the bride groom is being invited to take oil bath before marriage.]

Raga Pandhuvarali

Thala Roopaka

Pallavi

Shobhaname

Charanam

1. Ananda thirunadanam,

Haranudane Parvathiyum,

Arpudamay aadi nindrar,

Anaivarum kondata

2. Bala Krishnan thala mida,

Bhakthar yellam adisayikka,

Pathanjali ma muni pothra,

Paramananda thiru nadanam

3. Dumburu Naradar geetham pada,

Ambigai pagar narthanam aada,

Yem perumanum pugazhndu honatda,

Ambojasanar magizha

4. Vani Saraswathi innisai pada,

Varada abhaya kaikalil udukkaigal aada,

Sarpabharanam padam eduthu aada,

Chandra mouli Jadai virithada,

5. Vanavathor Vedangalk oda,

Mamunivargal aasi koora,

Chengayil maan mazhu chirandhulanga,

Mangai Shivakama valliyudan kooda

6. Vanabvarellam then mazhai choriya,

Vaiyagam yellam inbuthirukka,

Thooya veneerum thulangum vagayum,

Ayanin aananda kalippai kandu

English Translation

Pallavi

May all good happen

Charanam

1. The dance of divine joy,

Danced Lord Shiva with Parvathi,

Wonder fully performed they,

And all people praised the dance.

2. With the child Krishna keeping the beat,

With all devotees wondering at it,

With sage Patanjali appreciating it,

He performed the divine dance of joy

3. With Dumburu and Narada singing,

With consort of Parvathi dancing,

With Lord Vishnu appreciating,

With Lord Brahma becoming very happy

4. With Goddess Saraswathi singing,

With drums in hands of giving and blessing,

With snake dancing opening its hoods,

With Lord Shiva dancing opening his tuft

5. With Devas singing Vedas,

With great sages showering blessings,

With hands holding deer and axe,

Along with Shiva Kama Sundari he danced

6. With all gods showering nectar like words,

With all the heavens in throes of joy,

With the white sacred ash showing clearly,

With the great God in throes of joy.

Aanandam Aanandam Aanandam.

[This song can be sung any time during the marriage.]

Raga Bhairavi

Thala aadhi

Pallavi

Anandam, Anandam, Anandame

Paramanandam Anandam, Anandame.

Charanam

Sri Ramanum Mana magan aanaare,

Namma Janaki Mana magal aanale,

Vandavarkum parthavarkkum Anandam,

Seethaikkum Ramanukkum Aanandam,

Naam cheytha pooja phalavum,

Indru palithathamma.

English Translation

Pallavi

Joy, joy and only joy

Divine Joy, joy and only joy.

Charanam

Sri Rama became a bride groom,

Our Sita has become his bride,

For those who have come and,

To those who have seen there is joy.

Joy for Sita as well as Rama,

And today we have attained,

The fruits of all our worship.

Aanandam Aanandam Aayenamana

[This song immediately after the Mangalya Dharana is over.]

Raga Bhiravai

Thala Aadhi

Pallavi

Ananda mananda maayena mana

Charanam

1. Ramud Pelli kodukkayena, mana,

Seethamma pendli koothruvayena,

Kousalya nochina china nomu saphala mayene

Ananda mananda maayena mana

2. Rathnala palakavesi - Seetha,

Ramu lidharu koorthsundri - chelu,

Lathi vegavirulu srungarinchiri - Brahma,

Nanda vadhyamula sadamrokinchiri

Ananda mananda maayena mana

English Translation

Pallavi

Become happy and happy that our

Charanam

1. Rama has become the bride groom and that our,

Mother Sita has become his bride and,

The penance that Kousalya observed has borne fruit.

2. By putting a plank made fully of gems,

And on that Sita and Rama sat on it,

And on that they became showing their love,

To each other and Lord Brahma,

Played musical instruments.

Bhojanam Cheyya Varungo

[This song is a song meant to invite the bride groom's party for lunch.]

Pallavi

Bhojanam Cheyya varungo, Raja

Bhojanam cheyya varungo

Anupallavi

Meenakshi Sundaresa kalyani Mandapathil,

Bhojanam cheyya varungo

Charanam

Chithramana, nava chithramana,

Kalyana Mandapathil,

Vidha vidhamana vazhaigal katti,

Vetti ver kozhundu thoranangalum,

Mattiya kodamum, pavala sthambhavum,

Pachai maragathangal, thal gathi cheygalum,

Muthu muthana nuni vazhai ilaigalum,

Pasum ponnal cheytha Pancha pathrangalum,

Panneer jalathudan udharaniyume,

Muthu muthaga munne thelikka

Mummurthi Sakala devargal kooda,

Annam Parvathi Aadhi Para Shakthi,

Arundathi, indrani Agalya Kousalya,

Draupadhi, Sita, Thara Mandodhari,

Indira devi, Rambhai thilothamai,

Gandharwa pathni, kinnara devi,

Ashta dik palakar baaryal udane,

Saptha mahu muni rishi pathnigalum,

Pandhu adithar pol pattukkal katti,

Gejjai mettukkal kala kala vena,

Pasum pon thattile payasangal eduthu,

Parindu praindu parimara vandhar

English Translation

Pallavi

Please come to take your meals,

Please come to take your royal meals.

Charanam

In the picturesque marriage hall,

In the very new picturesque marriage hall,

Different types of Banana plants are erected,

All round Khus roots have been tied,

The hall is shining with gem studded pillars.

The floors have been paved with green emeralds,

And very, very pretty Banana leaves have been spread,

And by its side is the water pot made by pure Gold,

And in it is kept the scented rose water with a sacred spoon,

And from it water is sprinkled drop by drop

2. All the devas including the Sacred trinity have assembled there,

And dressed with pretty well made up silk Saris,

And with anklets making jingling sounds,

Food is being served with care and love,

By Goddess Annapurni, Parvatrhi and Adhi Parashakthi,

Arundathi, Indrani, Ahalya, Kousalya,

Panchali, Sitha, Tara, Mandodhari,

The queen of Indra, Rambha, Thilothama,

The kinner devi, the wives of Gandharwas,

Along the the wives of the eight guardians,

And with the wives of the seven great sages.

Chandra Mathiyo Ival

[These are called Pathiyams and are again sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice. Some of them would try to tease or make fun of the groom/bride or their parents.]

Ragam Mohanam

Tala aadhi

Pathiyam

1. Chandra mathiyo ival, indraniyo, poorna,

Chandra oliyo, Surya vindai oliyo

2. Sundara rambayo, jyothi prakasamo,

Yengal kulam vilanga vandal Yamuna rathiyo

3. Indranaar raniyo, Isainda Brahman vaniyo,

Andarathu amarar choozh alangaramo

4. Kanda malar veniyo kara thalaa kamalamo,

Kakshiyay vandu uditha santhi mathiyo

5. Ivalai naan yelimai cholla yelitho, yelitho,

Yengal kulam vilanga vandal Yamuna rathiyo,

Indhaadi Thamboolam Vangikkodi.

English Translation

1. Is she one with a face like moon,

Is she the queen of heaven,

Is she moon light, Is she the magical light of Sun.

2. Is she the pretty Rambha, Is she a halo of light,

Is she the Goddess of love come to brighten our clan.

3. Is she the queen of Indra, Is she the obedient wife of Brahma,

Is she the decoration surrounded by the Gods of the sky

4. Is she the bunch of flowers, Is she lotus in hand,

Is she the peaceful one who rose before me like a picture

5. Is it easy for me to tell bad about her

Is she the Goddess of love come to brighten our clan.

Hey Girl, take this Thamboola from me.

Chaya Kuruchigalam Menakshikku

[These are called Pathiyams and are again sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice. Some of them would try to tease or make fun of the groom/bride or their parents.]

Kummi

1. Chaya kurichigalam Meenakshikku,

Chayana kamichugalam,

Chandra kulathu arasi Meenakshikku

Santhikku Cheer eduthal

2. Benares pattugalaam, meenakshikku,

Pacchai churuttugalam,

Pandiya ridapari - Meenakshikku,

Vendiya cheer koduthal

3. Ponnaal jarigaikalam, menakshikku,

Pudumai ravikkaiyam,

Punniyavathi magizhndu, meenakshikku,

Poorithume koduthal.

4. Srungara peeligalam, meenakshikku,

Thanga narkaligalam,

Seemayellam jayitha Meenakshikku,

Stri dhanamay koduthal.

5. Velli pettigalaam, Meenakshikku,

Vichithra mettigalaam,

Viveka guna sampanna Meenakshikku,

Vegu vidhamay koduthal

6. Muthu kondaikalam Meenakshikku,

Rathna thandaikalam,

Mohana avathara Meenakshikku,

Muccheer vaithu koduthal.

7. Thanga thodavam, menakshikku,

Thinga pedaavaam,

Thayar mana magizhndu Meenakshikku,

Thane rumba koduthal.

8. Kaapu kolusugalaam Meenakshikku,

Chegappu dinusugalaam,

Srungaramagave, Meenakshikku,

Cheythu rumba koduthal.

9. Arpudha vangikalaam - Meenakshikku,

Aauyiram pangikalaam,

Annai manam Magizhndu - Meenakshikku,

Unnathamy koduthaal.

10. Karai Kandigalaam - Meenakshikku,

Year pon vandikalaam,

Kanchana Malai yappo - Meenakshikku,

Kanisamaga koduthaal.

11. Nakshatra maalaigalaam - Meenakshikku,

Nava rathna olaigalaam,

Nagareegamaga Meenakshikku,

Naala vidham koduthal.

12. Vaira murugukalaam - Meenakshikku,

Vaali thirugakalam,

Vyapariyidathil - Meenakshikku,

Vaangi rumba koduthal.

13 Surathu muthukkalaam - Meenakshikku,

Chuzhitha nathukkalam,

Soora senan sudhani - Meenakshikku,

Sondhamaga Koduthal

14, Athar poo chendugallam - Meenakshikku,

Methaigalaam, thindugalaam,

Chuthi kandham vveesa - Meenakshikku,

Nithya nithyam koduthaal.

15. Manikka pullakkam - Meenakshikku,

Aani pon pallakkaam,

Meenakshi priyal magizha - Meenakshikku,

Mel innamum koduthaal.

English Translation

1. For Meenakshi coloured chairs,

Beds for sleeping for her,

For Meenakshi the queen of moon dynasty,

2. For Meenakshi, silks from Benares,

Green rolls from Pandyas was given,

To meenakshi as wedding present.

3. For Meenakshi the cloths weaved of threads of Gold,

Blouses stiched in ultra modern way,

That blessed woman gave happily to Meenakshi.

4. For Meenakshi, very pretty feathers,

Chairs made of gold,

And personal money was given to Meenakshi,

Who won over all directions.

5. For Meenakshi, silver boxes,

Very modern toe rings,

She gave in different ways,

To Meenakshi who was full of wisdom.

Anklets made of gems,

6. For Meenakshi head gear made of pearl,

She gave as three types of gifts,

To Meenakshi who was very pretty.

7. For Meenakshi, Bracelets made of Gold,

And Peda for her to eat,

Her mother with great sense of joy,

Gave Meenakshi in large numbers.

8. Jingling silver anklets as well as feet bangles,

In different colours of red,

She gave in a lovely fashion,

To Meenakshi in large numbers.

9. For Meenakshi, wonderful armlets,

And one thousand servant friends,

Her mother gave Meenakshi

10. For Meenakshi Karai and Kandis,*

And goilden cart for her to climb,

Gave Kanchana Malai to Meenakshi,

In proper numbers.

* Ornaments

11. For Meenakshi, star necklaces,

Ear studs made of nine gems,

She gave in a proper way,

To Meenakshi who was modern.

12. For Meenakshi diamond nose studs,

And ear ornamenys,

She purchased from merchant,

And gave in large numbers to Meenakshi

13. For Meenakshi pearls from Surat,

Chuzhitha Nathus [not able to understand]

She Gave Meenakshi daughter of Soora sena,

As her own property.

14. For Meenakshi bouquet of scented flowers,

Cushions and pillows,

Which spread incense al round,

She gave daily.

15. For Meenakshi nose ring of ruby,

And palanquin made out of Gold,

Was given so that she becomes happy,

And she gave more of it.

Dandha Mukhanukku

[Laali songs are sung ceremonies after Oonjal like Pachai podal Vara Poojai etc.]

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. Dadndha mukhanukku ilaya kandhanukkum Lali.

Chathur marai moolanukkum, mayanukkum lali

2. Aadi poorathuditha Aandal nama kothai,

Ani arangarudan aadinaal appodhe

3. Paalale Kal alambi, pattale thudaithu,

Mani thengai kaiyil koduthu,

Manjal neer chuzhathi

English Translation

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. Laali for Lord Subrahmanya, the brother of Ganesa,

Laali for the basis of Four Vedas and to Lord Vishnu.

2. Aandal who was born in the poora star of month Aadi,

Swung in the swing along with Ranganatha.

3. Washing their feet with milk and drying it with silk,

And giving in their hands a coconut,

And swung round them the turmeric water.

[These Shobane songs were sung when the bride groom is being invited to take oil bath before marriage.]

Raga Panduvarali

Tala Roopaka

Pallavi

Shobhanam

Charanam

1. Dina mani vamsoddhara,

Dheena jana mandhaara,

Divyalakrutha bhooshaa,

Druda kodanda hastha

2, Palaya Maam Sri Rama,

Pavana Raghu kula soma,

Bhaktha vanditha Charana

Papa vidhoora harana

3. Dasaratha Nandana,

Thadagi mardhana,

Ahalya pavana,

Ambuja lochana.

English Translation

Pallavi

May all the good happen

Charanam

1. The one who made solar dynasty great,

The one who helps the down trodden

The one who has dressed up divinely,

The one who holds Kodanda firmly

2. Please look after me, Rama,

Oh God who is the moon to the holy dynasty of Raghu,

Oh God whose feet is worshipped by devotees,

Oh God who drives away to far off

3. Oh God who is the son of Dasaratha,

Oh God who killed Ogress Thadaga,

Oh God who made Ahalya pure

Oh God with lotus like eyes.

Gowri Kalyana Vaibhogame

[This song is a song which can be sung any time during the marriage.]

Raga Shankarabharanam

Thala

Pallavi

Gowri Kalyaname Vaibhogame

Lakshmi Kalyaname Vaibhogame

Charanam

1. Ksemangal kori, vinayaganai thudithu,

Shankaranayum gowriyayum Varnithu,

Sri Ramanayum janakiyayum varnithu

2. Vasudeva thava Bala, Asura kula kala,

Sasi Vadana roopini, Sathya bhama lola,

3. Kothode vazhai maram kondu vandu niruthi,

Koopudaya pandalukku mel kattu katti

English Translation

Pallavi

The great celebration of the marriage of Gowri,

The great celebration of the marriage of Lakshmi

Charanam

1. Praying Lord Ganesa, asking for good events,

Describing Lord Shiva and Goddess Gowrri,

Describing Lord Rama and Goddess Sita,

2. The son of Vasudeva got out of penance,

The lord who destroyed entire clan of Asuras,

The goddess who has the face like the mon,

The God who is infatuated with Sathya Bhama

3. After erecting a Banana plant along with the bunch,

And after tying the roof for the strong Pandal [stage].

Kandha Malar Mel Urayum

[Laali songs are sung ceremonies after Oonjal like Pachai podal Vara Poojai etc.]

Raga Kurinchi

Thala Kanda Chapu

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. Kandha malar meethu urayum - kattazhagi sithai,

Indhu mukha Sundari sree - Ramar magizh kodhai

2. Kosalai kumarane - Kousalya Rama,

Kousikarin velvi thannai - katha paranthama

3. Kallai pennakki vaitha - kamala por patha,

Thol ulagil keerthi migum - duraye Raghu natha

4. Siva dhanusai murithu vitha - Cheer miguntha thola,

Bhuvani pugazh Janakan Petha Sithai manavala

English Translation

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. The very pretty Sita sitting on scented flowers,

Who has a moon like face and makes Rama happy.

2. Oh Kosala Rama who is the son of Kausalya,

Oh God who saved the Yaga of Viswa mithra.

3. Oh God with lotus like feet who made the stone in to a lady,

Who was very famous in ancient world, Oh Lord, Oh Lord of Raghu

4. Oh Ace who broke the bow of Lord Shiva,

Who has very powerful and great shoulders,

Who is the husband of Sita, daughter of world famous Janaka.

Kanmani Rugmani

[These are called Pathiyams and are again sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice. Some of them would try to tease or make fun of the groom/bride or their parents.]

Raga Ananda Bhairavi

Thala Aadhi

Pathiyam

1. Kanmani Rugmani, yennudaya bhooshani,

Kanaka Oyyari nee Kamala vadhani

2. Minnal oli pondra nee vinnor paniyum nee,

Vilangave ulagathil vandhavalum nee.

3. Swarna prathimai, jyothi maya roopiniyum nee

Prasanna vadium nee, por kodiyum nee

4. Kannal karumbum nee, Karkandy rasavum nee,

Unnathanamaathoru utha then nee

5. Chennel vilayndhidum sukha vasi neeye,

Singamanathor, vachani neeye,

Karunai kadal pondra gunavum neeye

Kalyana guna seela vadani Vaaray.

English Translation

1. Darling Rukmani, who is an ornament to me,

Who shines like Gold, you are having a face like lotus

2. You are like the shine of lightning,

You are being saluted by the devas,

And you came to this world to make it great.

3. You are a statue of Gold,

You are the form full of light,

You have pleasing form,

And you the golden climber.

4. You are the sweet young sugarcane,

You are the juice of sugar candy,

And you are the very great good honey.

5. You are the pleasure making good rice to grow,

You are the one who talks dear sweet words of love,

You are the one who is like the sea of mercy,

And Oh come, sweet heart with a good character.

Kannunjal Aadinaal Kanchana Malai

[These Songs are sung when the bride and groom swing for the first time on a decorated swing.]

Raga Aananda Bhairavi

Thala Yeka

Pallavi

Kannunjal Adinal Kanchana Malai

Mana magizhndal.

1. Ponnunjal mel poorithu,

Bhooshangal Darithu,

Iswaranaridathil, Adi Asayum,

Romba Vaithal

2. Uttami Pettha Kumari,

Nithya sarvalangari.

Bhakthargal papa samhari,

Padma mugha oyyari

3. Asaindhu Sangiliyada,

Usandu Urvashi pada,

Isaindhu Thalangal poda,

Meenakshi Priyal Kondada

English Translation

Pallavi

Swung she, our Garland of Gold,

For the first time,

Charanam

1. In the golden swing,

And happy she became.

Ecstasic in the golden Swing,

And in love with the Lord of all.

2. Daughter of great ma,

Gaily made up to the toe,

Remover of sins of devotees,

The lotus girl who is haughty.

3. With her movements pretty,

Swung the chains hither and thither,

From the sky sang the great Urvashi,

And all people around kept the beats,

With Our darling Meenakshi's praise.

Kannunjal Aadugindral

[These Songs are sung when the bride and groom swing for the first time on a decorated swing.]

Pallavi

Kannunjal Adugindral

Charanam

1. Kannunjal Aadugindral,

Mana Magizhndaal

Kanchana malai mana magizhundaal,

2. Ponnunjalil poorithu bhooshangal tharithu,

Easwaranaridathil aasaigal pala vaithu,

3. Uthama kumari, nithya sarvalangari,

Bhakthargal papa samhari,

Padma muga oyyari

4, Asaindu sangiliyadi usandu oorvasi pada,

Isaindhu thalangal poda,

Meenakshi pariyaal kondada.

English Translation

Pallavi

She is swinging for the first time

Charanamn

1. She is swinging for the first time,

Her mind is extremely pleased,

Kanana Malai's mind is well pleased.

2. Becoming happy sitting on the golden swing,

Wearing several ornaments, keeping lot of desires,

On the great God, she is swinging for the first time.

3. 4. Making the chains move due to her movements,

With Urvasi the divine maiden singing,

And all well pleased people keeping beats,

And With Meenakshi celebrating the occasion.

Karumbhana Mozhi Thanile

[These are called Pathiyams and are again sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice. Some of them would try to tease or make fun of the groom/bride or their parents.]

Folk song

Kummi to be song after Paligai

1. Karumbana mozhi thanile,

Kanakam thedi vaaray penne,

Varuvayodi penne Valli

2. Vagayana thiruthanikku,

Thiruthanikku vandhayana

3. Therumundu thiru nalumundu

Arumundu kulamum undu

4. Angeyoru kovil undu,

Kulikka kolangal undu

5. Kumbittu sevikka servai undu,

Kattilundu methai undu

6. Kaal pidikka thathi undu,

Methai undati penne valli

7. Manmathan pol purushan undu,

Pirithu metha pesarandi

8. Parthayodi pangimarrgal,

Padu than chonna soothugalai

9. Kettayodi thozhimargal,

Kizhhavan chonna soothugalai

10. Parthalum Kizhavanodi

Patharai mathu thangamodi

11. Chonnalum kizhavarodi,

Soothu katha kizhavarodi

12. Annan yendru naan irundhen,

Migavum vithai pesurandi

13. Pattanendru naan irundhen,

Parihasangal pannurandi

14. Aalayadi pillayarai,

Anu dinamum naan maranthen

15. Pathu masam sumanthu petha,

Parvathiyayum naan maranthen

16. Sandhiyanam naan maranthen

Siva poojaikal naan maranthen,

17. Madhyanan naan maranthen,

Maha poojaikal naan maranthen

18. Thottu thali kattiyathoru,

Deivayanayum naan maranthen

19. Unnale ponne valli,

Ulagamengum thedi vanthen

20. Kadu vetti kal porukki,

Kanakamengum chuthi vandhen

21. Modu vetti mul porukki,

Bhuvanamengum chuthi vandhen

22. Aalolam yenbal valli,

Arai nodiyil kadhir odippal

23. Kololum yenbal valli,

Oru nodiyil kadir odippal

24. Odicha kadirayellam,

Ullam kaallal thoothi vital,

Kathu Vakkinele Thothi vital

25. Kalle noralakki,

Kaleppen olakke chathi,

26. Annarukke ezhu urundai

Azhagaka urutti vecha

27. Micha mirundha mavayellam,

Velavarukke thaan thantha,

English Translation

1. In the words as sweet as sugarcane,

Oh girl, come in search of gold,

Will you come Oh girl, Valli

2. To the famous Thiruthani,

If you come to Thiruthani

3. Chariots are there, festivals are there,

River is there, ponds are there

4. There is one temple there,

There are bathing tanks there

5, For saluting and worshipping, God is there,

There are cots, there are beds

6. To massage the legs there are maids,

And there are soft cushions there, Oh Girl

7. There is a man who is like a god of love,

And he talks a lot in a confusing way

8. Have you heard the words of your friends,

About the acts of deception of him.

9. Have you heard from your friends,

The lies told by that old man

10. Does he look like an oldie;

He is the high quality gold.

11. Even if he tell is he an old man,

Is he an oldie who has learned deception

12. I was existing as my elder brother,

Tells he in a confusing manner

13. I was existing as a grandpa,

And then he makes fun of us.

14. I daily forget the existence,

Of Lord Ganesa below the banyan tree.

15. I forgot Goddess Parvathi,

Who gave birth to me after carrying for ten months.

16. I forgot my ablations at dawn;

I forgot to worship Lord Shiva.

17. I forgot my noon ablations,

And I also forgot all great worships.

18 I also forgot Deivayanani,

Whom I wedded by tying a Thali.

19. Due to you, Oh Girl Valli,

I have searched the whole world.

20. I had cleared forests, removed stones,

And went on searching all forests.

21. I cut the hills, cleared thorns,

And made a round of the whole world.

22. Valli will shout "Alolam",

And she will cut the ears of grain within a second.

23. Valli will shout "kololam",

And she will cut the ears of grain in a second.

24. All the harvested ears,

She ground with her legs,

And winnowed it before the wind.

25. She will make a stone in to a mortar,

And hit it with the pestle

26. She cooked it and made,

In to seven balls for the God Ganesa himself.

27. And all that is left over,

She gave it to Lord Subramanya.

Koti Manmatha Roopanukku Shobhanam

Raga Panduvarali

Thala Roopakam

[These Shobane songs were sung when the bride groom is being invited to take oil bath before marriage.]

Pallavi

Shobhaname

Charanam

1. Koti Manmatha rooparukku,

Sri Gomathi Sametharukku,

Sangu chakra nesarukku,

Swami Sankareswararukku

2. Giri Raja puthrikku

Par pugazhum sundarikku,

Paranthamam ishwarikku,

Prathyaksha Sundarikku

English Translation

Pallavi

Wishing for good things,

Charanam

1. For him who is like billions of love Gods,

For him who is with Goddess Gomathi,

For him who likes conch and the wheel,

For him who is the great God shiva

2. For her who is the daughter of the king of mountains,

For her whose beauty is praised by all the world,

For her who is the consort of Lord Vishnu,

For her who is prettiness personified.

Ksheerabdhi Sayanane

[These are called Pathiyams and are again sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice. Some of them would try to tease or make fun of the groom/bride or their parents.]

Raga Ananda Bhairavi

Thala Aadhi

Pathiyam

1. Ksheerabdhi sayanane, chinmayanandane

Devar kurai theerkka vanda Garuda dwajane

2. Maaratha aananda kadal thannil moozhga vaitha

Manmathakaarane Vanaja nayane

3. Daralama yendan munnagave vandhu,

Thazhuviye rathathin mel yethu Madanane

4. Paaralum Sishupalan thannai avamanam cheytha,

Parama kalyani oyyaara nayane

5. Theeratha mana kkavalai theerthu vaitheer,

Chiru budhi rukhmananai avamathitheer,

Peranandam thannil thilaya vaitheer,

Poorna vadivagave sevai thantheer.

English Translation

1. Oh God who sleeps on the ocean of milk,

Oh God who is divinely happy,

Oh God with a flag with Garuda,

Who came to solve problems of devas.

2. Oh Krishna who looks like God of love,

Oh Krishna who has lotus like eyes,

You made me drown in the perennial sea of joy.

3. Without any problem come before me,

Hug me and help me climb the chariot.

4. Oh God who has pretty eyes that does only good,

You insulted Shishupala who was ruling the world.

5. You completely cured my incurable worries;

You insulted the silly minded Rugmi,

Made me drown in great joy,

And appeared before me in your full form.

Laali Sri Raghu Vamsa

[Laali songs are sung ceremonies after Oonjal like Pachai podal Vara Poojai etc.]

Raga Kurinchi

Thala Kanda Chapu

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. Laali Sri Raghu Vamsa, thilaka, sakalesa,

Laali Sri Muni hrudaya Kamala ruchi nilaya

2. Pranadha Jana Kumudha vana thuhi nagara Vadana,

Nava Nalina dala nayayana, phani Ramana sayana.

English Translation

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. Laali to the god who is the greatest of Raghu clan,

Laali to him who lives in the lotus hearts of sages.

2. To those people who salute,

He who has lotus like moon like face,

Who has eyes like the leaves of lotus,

And who sleeps on the pretty bed of snake.

Madhura Puri Easwariyal

[These Songs are sung when the bride and groom swing for the first time on a decorated swing.]

Ragam BHairavi

Thalam Yeka

Pallavi

Aadir oonjal

Charanam

1. Madhura puri easswariyal, mahimayagi,

Mangai manavalar udan deviyagi,

Malaya dwaja pandya mahimayagi,

Raja rajeswariyal aadir Oonjal

2. Chengolum pattayuma - thirukarathil yendi,

Desamengum aala pattabhishegam choodi,

Rajanga koluvirukkum rajyamala,

Raja rajeswariyal aadir oonjal

English Translation

Pallavi

Swing in the swing

Charanam

1. The goddess of the town of Madurai superbly,

Becoming Goddess with her husband,

Became the daughter of Malaya Dwaja Pandya,

Let that Rajarajeswari swing in the swing.

2. Holding the scepter and authority to rule in her hands,

She crowned herself to rule all the countries,

And for the sake of ruling became the ruler,

Let that Rajarajeswari swing in the swing.

Malai Chathinaal Kodhai

Raga English note

[These Songs are sung when the bride and groom exchange garlands for the first time.]

Pallavi

Malai Chatthinal, Kothai, Malai Matthinal.

Charanam

1. Maladainthu Mashila Rangan

Malayavar than marbile, maiyal aai,

Thaiyalal Malarkarathinal Poo

2. Rangarajanai, Anbar - thangal nesanai,

Asi koori, bhoosurargal - pesi miga vazhthida,

Anbudan - Inbamai,

Andal karathinal Poo

English Translation

Pallavi

Flower garland put on his neck, Kothai

Flower garland exchanged from him, Kothai

Charanam

1. On him who is lord Vishnu,

On him who is the spotless Ranga,

The winsome lady,

With her flower like hands,

With love filling her heart,

2. When the friends and priests,

Praised and blessed him who is God,

With love and with joy,

With her holy hands.

Malayadwaja Suthani

[These are called Pathiyams and are again sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice. Some of them would try to tease or make fun of the groom/bride or their parents.]

Ragam Mohanam

Thalam Aadhi

Pathiyam

1. Malaya dwaja suthani mangala mrudu vachani,

Senkamala nayaniye, chelvi kelay

2. Yenneramum yen varthai thavaramale,

Chonna padi nee nadanthayaanaal

3. Chandiranai kanda sagaram pol pongi naan,

Mathu, vegu sathu vendru manayil vazhven

4. Deva Rambhayanalum, thedi yinge vandalum,

Devi yenakku aavi yendru thirumbi paaren

5. Chandra kantha mandapa manjathil naadi,

Santhoshamay sarasam cheythu koodi,

Panchavarna kiliye, unnai konji vachanippen.

English Translation

1, Daughter of Malaya Dwaja pandya, who talks good things softly,

Oh Girl with red lotus like eyes, please hear what I say.

2. If at all times you obey my words,

And act according to them

3. Like a sea rising at the sight of moon,

I will always be in the house thinking you are a nice, nice girl

4. Even if the Rambhai of heaven comes in search of me,

Thinking that you are my soul, I will not look at her

5, I will come to the cot which attracts the moon,

Would merge with you in a sweet fashion,

Oh bird of five colours, I will talk sweet nothings to you.

Mangalam Cher Puduvayin

[Laali songs are sung ceremonies after Oonjal like Pachai podal Vara Poojai etc.]

Ragam Kurinji

Thalam Kanda Chapu

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. Mangalam cher puduvayin maa nagarin meethe,

Malar thulasiyin meethe avadaritha mangai Kothai,

Ranga mannarudan rathina oonjal meethe,

Pongi Magizhvudan Aadeer Oonjal

2. Indiranum Raviyum vadam thottatta,

Chandra shekaranum umayum oru Vadam thottu aatta,

Dumburu Naradarum Venai meetta,

Sri Ranga Nadarudan Aadeer Oonjal

English Translation

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. She who was born in the holy city of Puduvai,

On the forest of the flower bearing Thulasi plants,

And is swinging in the gem studded swing,

Along with Lord Ranga Raja happily.

2. The swing was moved on one side by Indra and Sun,

And another side by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi,

And dumburu and Narada were playing Veena,

And she swung along with Lord Ranganatha.

Mani Malai Malar Malai

[Laali songs are sung ceremonies after Oonjal like Pachai podal Vara Poojai etc.]

Raga Kurinji

Thala Kanda Chapu

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

Mani malai, malar malai, Vaira Malai,

Marakada Mamalai - muthu malai

Aniyana poopanthal - asainthu aada,

Anikuyile, mani mayile, aadeer oonjal

English Translation

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

Bead necklace, flower necklace, diamond necklace,

Great necklace made of Emerald - pearl necklace,

Well decorated stage with flowers - slowly shaking,

Oh decorated nightingale, Oh pretty peacock, swing.

Manmathanukku Malai Ittaye

[These Songs are sung when the bride and groom exchange garlands for the first time.]

Pallavi

Manmathanukku Malai ittaye

Charanam

1. Manmathanukku Malai ittaye,

Mathe manmathanukku Malai ittaye,

Adi Mathe manmathanukku malai ittaye,

Janmam adhil sukithu Neeradi

2. Manmathanukku malai ittu,

Malai thanai kai pidithu,

Kanaka nonbu nothathu pol,

Kidaithathu Bhagyamadi

3. Chen thazhai Odayile,

Mandharai pothadu pol,

Indirano, Chandirano,

Sundarano, avar thanadi

English Translation

Pallavi

You have married* the God of love

*literally "put the garland on"

Charanam

1. You have married the God of love,

Lass, you have married the God of love,

Hey lass, you have married the God of love,

And you have plunged in to happiness by that.

2. By Marrying the God of love,

By holding the garland in your hand,

Which is similar to the penance of Gold,

You have attained great luck.

3. Like the pretty Mandara flower blooming

In the stream with pandanus on both sides,

He is Devendra, the moon as we ll as the pretty one.

Nalangida Varum Raja

[These are sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice.]

Pallavi

Nalangida Varum Raja

Charanam

1. Nalangida varum Raja,

Nanayam ulla duraye,

Muthizhaitha pandalile,

Rathina komattikku,

Vanda janam kathirukka,

Varum ayya nalangidave.

2. Pattu Jamakkala methai,

Pandalile virithirukku,

Nalu vidha vathiyangalum,

Naggarigamy olikka

3. Yenda ooru, yenda desam,

Yengirundu vandheer,

Mohana param thanile,

Mohiniyai kana vandhen.

English Translation

Pallavi

Oh King, come to decorate your darling.

Charanam

1. Oh King, come to decorate your darling,

Oh Lord who is very honest,

Come to this stage decorated with gems,

For decorating your lady who is like pearl,

For all the invitees are waiting,

And so Sir, come to decorate your darling.

2. Silk has been spread over the cushion,

In the stage which has been made for this,

With the eighteen type of musical accompaniments,

Which are played in civilized manner.

3. Where from are you, from which country,

Where from have you come?

Due to being attracted in the pretty world,

I have come here to see the bewitcher.

Nalanguidugiral Meeana Lochani

[These are sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice.]

Pallavi

Nalangidugiral Meena Lochini

Charanam

1. Nalangidugiral Meena Lochani,

Nadarudan Vandu Kooda,

Naradarum Nalla Ganangalai Pada,

Nana Vida Taalam Poda,

2. Neela Varna Divya Manjalai Edutthu,

Nithyanandarai Kurithu,

Poorithu, Bhoopathi Padathile Ittal,

Pushpa Haram Marbil Pottal.

3. Swarna Panneer Chombai - Jothi eduthal,

Sundareswarar Mel Thelithal,

Vasanai Kalanda Parimalam Poosinal,

Vanangi Chamaram Veesinal

4. Visthiramai Neenda Nettiyai Thottal,

Kasthuri Thilagangal Ittal,

Malligaiyai Chelli Kai Ale Thelithal,

Maha devar Veniyile Mudithal

5. Thanga Thambalam Thaga Thaga endru Eduthal,

Thamboolangaludan Koduthal,

Munnale Nandraga Pathiyam Padithal,

Meenakshi Priyal Manasai Sada Pidithal

English Translation

Pallavi

Our girl Meenalochani,

Is decorayting her darling

Charanam

1. When she came with her husband,

Narada sang beautiful songs,

And all kept different beats.

2. Taking the blue coloured divine turmeric,

Thinking of him who is happy for ever,

With happiness filling her mind,

She decorated the feet of her king.

3. Golden pitcher with scented water she took,

And sprinkled on the God of beauty

And applied she scented balms,

And also fanned him with peacock feathers.

4. She caressed his wide long forehead,

And applied round dot with musk divine,

And took jasmine flowers in a lot,

And put it in his made up hair.

5. She took a glittering gold plate,

And gave him with Thamboola,

And also sang nice Pathiyams,

And thus our darling Meenakshi caught hold of his mind.

Neeradina Sri Rama

[These Shobane songs were sung when the bride groom is being invited to take oil bath before marriage.]

Ragham Pandu Varali

Thala Roopaka

Pallavi

Sobhane

Charanam

1. Neeradina Sri Rama,

Nirai karum kuzhal choozha,

Cheerai thaila snanam cheyya,

Cheer mighu daasarathe.

2. Melam pathinettum kotta,

Melor geetham isaikka,

Thaladhikaludan chera,

Seela mighu thalai kuniya,

Pappala pala pala vena thailam,

Parimalam pala vidham veesida,

Thagida thagida thathomena,

Thalangal thalai thanil theerthida,

Neeradina Rama - jaya Shobhane

English Translation

Pallavi

May all the good come

Charanam

1. Oh Rama who took bath,

With black curly hair round you,

Oh great son of Dasaratha,

Please come to take oil bath

2. With eighteen types of drums playing,

With the devas singing on the sky,

Which merged with different beats,

With Sita with good character bending her head,

With the scented oil shining on your body,

With the beats on the drums playing,

Oh Rama you took your bath.

Victory to you let all good come to you.

Palale Kal Alambi

[Laali songs are sung ceremonies after Oonjal like Pachai podal Vara Poojai etc.]

Raga Kurinji

Thala Kanda Chapu

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. Palale Kalalambi, Pattale Thudaithu,

Muthana pengal ellam, Muvarumai Chutta Lali

2. Ganga Jalangal Kondu, Mangayargal Devi,

Mani vilakkai kayyil endi - Valaya Vandu Chuttha Lali

3. Deva Thanthi than Muzhanga - Devargal Pugazha,

Pathinettu Vadhiyamum - Pugazh Divya Muzhanga Lali

English Translation

Pallavi

Laali

Charanam

1. Washing his feet with milk divine,

Drying his feet with the softest silk,

Three pearl like women go round and round.

2. One lady great,

Carrying the holy waters of Ganges,

The goddess of women carrying,

A lustrous lamp divine,

They go round and round.

3. With pretty music from strings of God,

With Gods blessing from the sky,

With Eighteen instruments accompanying,

Singing their praise.

Raghu Kula Chandranukku Shaobhane

[These Shobane songs were sung when the bride groom is being invited to take oil bath before marriage.]

Raga Pandu Varali

Thala Roopaka

Pallavi

Shobhane

Charanam

1, Sri Raghu kula chandrunuku

Srutha kairava Chandranuku,

Pooritha daya saandrunukku,

Bhoga Mahendranukku.

2. Shobhaname Ramanukku,

Sugunabhi Ramanukku,

Prabhava jaya damanukku,

Shobhana Ramanukku

English Translation

Palallavi

Wishing for good things

Charanam

1, To The moon of the Raghu dynasty,

To the one who is like the white lotus of the moon,

To the one who is filled completely with mercy,

To the one who enjoys like the great Indra.

2. Wishing good things to Rama,

To him who is store house of good qualities,

Who is store house of fame for victories,

Wishing good things to Rama.

Rama Jaya Jaya

[This song is a song which can be sung any time during the marriage.]

Pallavi

Sri Rama jaya jaya,

Seethamma manohara,

Karunya Jaladhe,

Karuna nidhe, jaya, jaya

Charanam

1. Thillayil vanam thanile,

Ramar vandal malayile,

Ramaroda senayellam,

Ramarai Kondada

2. Sangu Chakram tharithu kondu,

Dhanusai kayil pidithu kondu

Kodandam thannai pidithu Ramar,

Kolakalamy irundhar

3. Janakaroda manayil vandu,

Seethayudaya villai murithu,

Janakiyai malayittar,

Janakar aranmanai thanile

English Translation

Pallavi

Victory, Victory to Sri Rama,

Who has stolen the mind of Sita,

Who is the ocean of mercy,

Victory, Victory to the treasure of mercy.

Charanam

1. In the forest of Chidambaram,

Sri Rama came in the evening,

All the army of Sri Rama,

Kept on praising him

2. He came wearing the conch and the wheel,

He came holding the bow in his hand,

And holding the Kodanda, that Sri Rama,

Was happy and great.

3. He came to the house of Janaka,

Broke the bow belonging to Sita,

And married the daughter of Janaka,

In the palace of Janaka.

Rathna Mani Mandapathil

[These Songs are sung when the bride and groom swing for the first time on a decorated swing.]

Ragam Bhairavi

Thalam Ekam

Pallavi

Aadeer oonjal

Charanam

1. Rathna mani mandapathil, Nalla muthaal alangarithu,

Nava rathnathal izhaitha, Kalgal naati,

Vajra vaidooryathal, palagai cherthu,

Gomedhaga Pushpa raga Kodungai pooti

2. Gandasaram Makara Gandi padakkam minna,

Kathu thodu kamala saram Palapalanna,

Endisayum pugazh padathil chilambu konja,

Yervayulla Deviyudane aadeer oonjal

Pallavi

Swing in the swing

Charanam

1. In the stage built of gem stones,

Decorated by best quality pearls,

With pillars made fully of nine precious gems,

With plank made of Diamond and Vaidoorya,

With the hooks made of Gomedhaga and Pushpa Raga.

2. Wearing necklaces and with shining pendant,

Made in the form of fish, with ear drops,

And lotus garlands shining greatly,

And the anklets chiming on his feet,

Which are famous in all eight directions,

Swing along with the Goddess who is great.

Rathna Oonjalil

[These Songs are sung when the bride and groom swing for the first time on a decorated swing.]

Pallavi

Rathna oonjalil aadinaal

Charanam

1. Rathna oonjalil aadinal,

Padmasuthanai padinaal,

Muthu sarangal kulungida,

Rathna malai asaindhida,

Chuthilum sagigal vilangida,

Methavum Madhurambikai

2. Madhi mukham manda hasamai,

Mannan idathil nesamay,

Bhaskaran pugazh prakasamay,

Para devathai ullasamay

English Translation

Pallavi

She swung in the gem studded swing

Charanam

1. She swung in the gem studded swing,

She sang about the son of the lotus flower,

With her pearl necklaces swinging here and there,

With friends surrounding on all sides,

The Very sweet Goddess.

2. With a gentle smile her moon like face,

With lot of love towards her king,

Whose fame shines like a Sun,

Swung the very happy divine goddess.

Sandegam Kolladhe

[These are called Pathiyams and are again sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice. Some of them would try to tease or make fun of the groom/bride or their parents.]

Sandegam, kollade, endan mel -

Sathiyamai Cholgiren, idai kelai.

Chandira Bimba Mandahasi undan -

Chengaram chindai magizhndu piditha nalai -

Soppanathil Analum e prapancha madargalai -

Sugithu Nan Anaithahthillai, en tholal

Surasenan sudani Petta en sugumariye,

Suthu endru Ariyadennai Sugithu Alai

Para Paksha Kashtangalai Chumanthu Nane -

Bana Bhadran Sathruvai Jeyikka ponen -

Komalakara Kuyile, endan kudumba mane,

Kopam Kollamal ennai Koodadi En thene.

English Translation

My heart of hearts,

Don't doubt me for a minute please,

I will tell you, all the truth,

Please hear this, oh darling mine.

My heart of hearts,

From the day, I held your hands,

Oh darling with a moon faced smile,

Even in dream, oh darling mine,

I have never held in my pleasing hands,

No lady of earth except thee. Oh darling mine

The daughter of son of Surasena,

I am innocent and plain, darling mine,

Hold me with you darling mine.

Carrying all thine doubts, darling mine,

I went to fight enemies of Bana Bhadra,

Hey, beautiful nightingale mine,

Hey, gazelle of family mine,

Leave this anger and become one with me, darling mine.

Seetha Kalyaname Vaibbhogame

By Sage Thyagaraja

[This song is a song which can be sung any time during the marriage. Smarthas sing this same song by substituting Gowri instead of Sita.]

Raga Sankarabharanam

Tala Kandalaghu

Pallavi

Sita Kalyana Vaibhogame

Rama Kalyana Vaibhogame

Anupallavi

Pavanaja Stuti Patra Pavana Charitra

Ravi Soma Vara Netra Ramaniya Gatra [Sita]

Charanam

1. Bhakta Jana Paripala Bharita Zara Jala

Bhukti Mukti - Da Lila Bhu - Deva Pala

2. Pamarasura Bhima Paripurna Kama

Shyama JagadAbhirama Saketa Dhama

3. Sarva Loka Dhara Samaraika Veera

Garva Manasa Dura Kanakaga Dhira

4. Nigamagama Vihara Nir - Upama Zarira

Naga Dharagha Vidara Nata Lokadhara

5. Paramesa Nuta Gita, Bhava Jaladhi Pota

Tarani Kula Sajjata Tyagaraja Nuta

* This song also is sung with "Gowri Kalyana Vaibhogame."

English Translation

Pallavi

The great celebration of the marriage of Sita,

The great celebration of the marriage of Rama

Anupallavi

He who is praised by Hanuman, the son of wind,

He who has a very holy story,

He whose eyes are the Sun and the moon,

He who has a very pretty body.

Charanam

1. He who takes care of the needs of devotees,

He whose arrow case is full of arrows,

He who gives salvation to devotees,

He who looked after earth just like a play.

2. He who appears great to the common man and devas,

He who is desired by people who are full,

He who is black and prettiest in the world,

He who lived in Saketha [Ayodhya] Pattana.

3. He who is the basis of all the world,

He who is the great hero of war,

He who is far away from proud people,

He who is a golden one with courage

4. He who lives in sacred books and Vedas,

He who has an incomparable body,

He who is the soul of great Ragas,

He who takes care of devotees,

5. He who is sung in prayers by Lord Shiva himself,

He who removes the problems of domestic life

He who understands the human beings,

And is sung by sage Thyagaraja.

Soma Surya Nayana

[These are called Pathiyams and are again sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice. Some of them would try to tease or make fun of the groom/bride or their parents.]

Pallavi

Soma Surya Nayana

Charanam

1. Soma Suryava nayana, Un sareeramellam,

Chornthirukka Vendiya Karanangal enna.

Surukkai inda sangadiyai, surukkai en karanam ketka,

Kapadamillamale, Urayum Nanna

2. Mohiniyai Kandu Bhogikka Asai kondu.

Hariyidathil Apamana patta manna -

3. Mosam Cheythu munivar pathinigalai thodarnthu,

Padivritha bhangam Cheytha Prabhu Neeranna

4. Vervayal Annai Thantha Salvai Nananchu Poche,

Visala lalada basmam azhiyalache,

Nalu Nariyargal Arindal enakku eche,

Nan enna thavam cheytheno, enakku Vache.

English Translation

Pallavi

Oh one with Dun and moon as eyes

Charanam

1. Oh Darling mine with Sun and moon as eyes

Why should you look so worn.

Please darling mine,

Tell all the reasons for this first.

2. Did you follow Mohini,

And got insulted by Hari, Oh darling mine.

2. Did you deceive the sages fine,

And followed their wives dear,

And insulted by them, oh darling mine

3. Oh darling mine,

Why is the shirt,

Given by your mummy, so wet,

And oh why, your forehead broad,

Is full of water darling mine.

4. When four ladies know,

About thee, darling mine,

They will abuse me, darling mine.

What penance did I, darling mine,

To get an husband like you, darling mine.

Vaarai Rukmani Yen Mugathai Parai

[These are sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice.]

Pallavi

Varai Rukmani, yen mugathai parai

Charanam

1. Varai, Rukmani Devi, Nerai En Mugathai Parai,

Nalangida Pathathai Tharai. Magizhvaga.

2. Vanchanai Cheydha, Pey Uyir Thuncha Vendra Mayan,

Kanchala nethran Kaiyal - Manjal Poosigiren.

3. Mandra giriyai Sumandirarukku amritham,

Vindai ayi eenda kaiyale, Chandanam Poosigeren

4. Vala Karathil Azhi dharithirukkum Vasudevan,

Thilaga pottidugiren Thiru nettiyil nerai

5. Theembu cheyda Kaliya paambil meedil nadithon,

Aambal malar vayan kaiyal Thamboolam tharugiren

English Translation

Pallavi

Come my Rugmani, See my face straight,

Charanam

1. Come my Rugmani, See my face straight,

Extend your feet for putting Nalangu,

With all the happiness in the world.

2. He who has not deceived any one,

He who has killed all the bad devils galore,

He who has beautiful black eyes,

Am applying turmeric paste on you, oh dear

3. He who took the Mandara Mountain,

With his hand, in times of yore,

Applies with his magical hands Sandal on you, oh dear

4. I, the great Vasudeva,

Who wears the ocean in his right hand,

Am putting thilaka,

On your forehead straight, Oh dear

5. He who danced on the head,

Of the evil Serpent Kaliya,

Am giving you with my lotus hand,

Thamboola to you, Oh dear.

Vadana Dyuthi Jitha Soma

By Saint Thyagaraja

[These Shobane songs were sung when the bride groom is being invited to take oil bath before marriage.]

Raga Kaamya vardhini

Tala Roopakam

Pallavi

Shobhane

Charanam

1. Vadana dhyuthi jitha soma,

Vasudha manasa kaama,

Madha manava gana bheema,

Maam pahi Sri Rama.

2. Janaka sutha hrud Ramana,

Jamadagni cha madha harana,

Pranadha ganala Varuna,

Pahi maam muni charana

3. Vigalitha moha paasa,

Vidhu koti sangaasa,

Bhagwan sakaladeesa,

Pahi papa vinasa,

4. Vara thyaga raja nutha,

Varija sambhava Thatha,

Parama kalyanayudha,

Pahi maam shubha charitha.

English Translation

Pallavi

Wishing for good things

Charanam

1. To him whose face wins over the moon,

To him who is desired by the mind of goddess earth,

To him who is leader of exuberant men,

Please protect me, Oh Rama.

2. To him who pleases the mind of daughter of Janaka,

To him who killed the pride of son of Jamadagni,

To him who is like god of rain to the thirsty,

Please protect me, Oh God whose feet is worshipped by sages.

3. To him who cuts the ties of bondage,

To him who resembles billions of sun gods,

To him who is the god of all gods,

Please protect me, killer of sins.

4, To him who is worshipped by Thyagaraja,

To him who is the father of Lord Brahma,

To him who is the greatest doer of good,

Please protect me, Oh God with good story.

Varum Varum Nalangida

[These are sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice.]

Pallavi

Varum, Varum Nalangu ida

Charanam

1. Vaarum, Vaarum Nalangida, Sri Vamana Avaatharare,

Theerum, Theerum, En Kavalai, Theertha Ramachandrare,

Azhi Pettha Kayyile - Kanayazhi Modiram Minnave,

Thozhimarudan Koodi - thottathil Vilayadave

2. Atchudanada Moorthiye - Pachai Kavacham Podave.

Atchutarum Lakshmiyum, Ichai udane Koodiye.

English Translation

Pallavi

Please come, come to put Nalangu

Charanam

1. Please come, please come for putting Nalangu,

He who was born as Vamana,

Put an end, put an end,

To all my worries, Hey Ramachandra.

In the hand that was born to the sea,

The Lustrous ring sparkling bright,

Please come to make merry,

In the garden beautiful,

With my lovely friends all around.

2. Hey God who is Achuytha,

For wearing the shirt of green,

Come with Lakshmi and Achutha,

With lovelorn face.

Yen Prana Rajare

[These are called Pathiyams and are again sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice. Some of them would try to tease or make fun of the groom/bride or their parents.]

Ragam Aananda Bhairavi

Thala aadhi

Pathiyam

1, Yen Prana Rajare, eerezhu ulaga vasare,

Manaivi naan chollum mozhiyai magizhndu kelum

2. Pathiyai deivam yendre enni, bhakthiyai poojai panni,

Nithiyamum naan ummai sevikka vendum

3. Kodi Manmatha roopa, koodi yennal aana mattum,

Nadiye pani vidai naan nadathugiren.

4. Adhile chila apacharam aayiram naan cheythalum,

Upacharamagave thaam grahithu

5. Kuthrangal naan yethanai cheytha pothum,

Chithathil vaikamal kshamithu kaarum,

Prana Saka pole yennai anaithu kollum.

English Translation

1. The king of my soul, who lives in all fourteen worlds,

Please hear with joy the words told by me who is your wife.

2, It is necessary that I should think that my husband is my god,

Worship you with devotion and serve you well daily.

3. Oh darling who is like billions of love Gods,

I would try to serve you to the best possible extent.

4. In that that I would cause thousands of short comings,

But please understand them as good things done.

5, Even if I do many, many wrong things,

Please pardon me by your mind and look after me,

And come and hug me like the very dearest friend.

Yengal Sambandi

[These are called Pathiyams and are again to be sung during Nalungu which is a play between the groom and bride meant to break the ice. Some of them would try to tease or make fun of the groom/bride or their parents.]

Pallavi

Yengal Sambandi

Charanam

1. Yengal Sambandi,

Sappidave Mattal.

Vegu Sangojakkari

Idliyile iru nooru

Thayir Vadayile inooru

Puliyodarayum,

Venpongalum,

Kai Murukkum Boondhi Laddum,

Then kuzhalum,

Vida Vidamaga,

Oru Kai Parapal

2. Amerikka Badam,

Arabia Pereechai,

Irakkin Pistaa,

Kashmir Akroot,

Kumkuma poo potta,

Karkandu Palai,

Kudam Kudamaga,

Kudithe Theerpal

English Translation

Pallavi

Our daughter's mother in law

Charanam

1. Our daughter's mother in law,

Never takes food, never -

If it is Idlis, she takes but two hundred,

If it is Thair Vadai she takes only five hundred,

She also takes,

Varieties and Varieties,

Of Puliyodarai, Ven Pongal,

Kai Murukku, Boondhi, laddu,

And honey kuzhal lots and lot,

2. She only drinks, poor lady, pots and pots of milk,

Mixed nicely with crystal sugar,

With Almonds from America,

With dates from Arabia,

With Pisthas from Iran,

With Akroot from Kashmir,

Along with Saffron.

even keel.

 In a philosophical debate at Saharsa in present-day Bihar, Mandan Mishra was reluctant to concede defeat at the hands of Adi Shankara, who was young enough to be Mandan’s son. Mandan Mishra’s wife Ubhaya Bharati, who was a mediator, politely told her husband that he lost the debate to Adi Shankara. She admonished her husband, the delusion that he could never be wrong had made him reluctant to accept that Shankara was right. Right to be right doesn’t make one upright and ethical. It fills you with arrogance. Camus’ insistence on not being right has a greater and deeper significance. In his book The Rebel, Camus wrote that a genuine rebel or revolutionary couldn’t succeed in his rebellious ways unless he accepted his opponents to be right occasionally because then only could he fight with them on an even keel. “Giving equal opportunities even to the foes and then fighting is a sign of a rebel. A rebel thrives in dissensions. He’s a man of principles. So, he doesn’t insist on being right each and every time. To be a rebel is to be ethical,” wrote Camus. He also believed that a rebel is never judgmental. Only those who’re judgmental, don’t allow others to be right. Just like retreat is a strategy in warfare, accepting that one’s not right at a specific time or moment is also a sign of evolution. It helps one rejig his strategies and assess the strengths and weaknesses of others. Acceptance of being wrong is symptomatic of a healthy mind and a broad outlook.

Vidur told Dhritrashtra that the battle of Kurukshetra broke out because not just Kauravas, even Pandavas insisted on being right and were never ready to accept their weaknesses and wrongs. If either of them forfeited the ‘right’ to be right every time, such destruction could have been averted. Accepting that you can be wrong ennobles and enlightens you. Walt Whitman said, “I’m conscientious and not condescending, because I’m least bothered about being right and infallible, for, I’m a human.”

Yet again.

 https://m.timesofindia.com/life-style/soul-search/6-inspirational-quotes-from-the-bhagavad-gita-that-everyone-should-take-lessons-from/photostory/106520201.cms

Anyone

 Anyone can dance. I truly beleive in this. From the time we are born, kicking our legs and hands, expression, rhythm and motion is a part of our lives. The beating of the heart and the way we breathe also follows this basic rhythm and movement. So dance is not something new for any of us. Its finding our own rhythm and moving our body synchronous to it. There are no bad dancers, but only bad listeners. Even silence can be the music for our dance. When we dance, we not only move our body, but also involve our minds, heart and finally infuse our very soul into the very being of the dance. So, why do most people hesitate to dance, and feel vulnerable in social events where dancing happens? Over the years, dancing has been made into something unattainable, elitist, . The simple pleasure of moving the body to a rhythm, exploring the emotions associated with the movement (strong, graceful, joyful etc) expresses different facets of who we are. When you dance your body releases endorphins. This is a chemical that trigger's positive energy and good vibes! It helps improve our emotional state and reduce our perception of pain. So basically, dancing is your cure for happiness!

By Dr. Nandhini navnith. 

The vicious cycle.

 

The turbulent senses drag the mind of even a wise man. If a person can draw his senses away from worldly things as a tortoise draws in its limbs, then his wisdom will be firmly set. Lord Krishna explains the vicious cycle of longing for the sense objects to Arjuna in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2 slokas 62 and 63 — attachment emerges to a man thinking about sense objects. From attachment desire, from desire anger, from anger delusion, from delusion the loss of memory; the destruction of discrimination and with that a person is lost. He will be in the swirl of samsara with repeated births and deaths (punarapi jananam punarapi maranam).

Valayapettai Sri Ramachariar said in a discourse that everyone has one kind of torment or the other, from a tiny insect to Brahma, the God of creations (all celestials included). People who are in the pursuit of worldly pleasures will develop mental distress caused by agitation and may become nonplussed. When distress grows, a person may not get wisdom and a clear vision of truth.

The reason for all the above is our papa karma (past deeds). We should never try to seek remedies to overcome this by ourselves without the blessings of God. If we worship God who has “Subhaasrayathvam“ — the power of neutralising our sins (subhathvam) and who is the ultimate refuge for us (Aasrayathvam), we can easily cross the sea of samsara with no rebirths.

clouds

 Azhwars, the Vaishnava saints, rendered hymns in Tamil, encompassing the philosophical and theological ideas of the three fundamental doctrines of Vaishnavism. These three are tattva (ultimate reality), hita (the means to attain the same) and purushartha (supreme goal of life). Each of the Azhwars presented these in a manner readily comprehensible to the ordinary man through their hymns dedicated to the Supreme, said Tirukkudanthai Dr. Venkatesh in a discourse.Poigai Azhwar, Bhuttat Azhwar and Pey Azhwar sang on Vaikunta and Tiruvikrama. Tirumazhisai Azhwar was focused on antartyami, the Lord within us. Kulasekhara Azhwar was dedicated to singing on Rama. Tiruppan Azhwar sang on both the sthalams, Tirumalai and Tirupati. Tirumangai Azhwar rendered pasurams on all the Divya Desams. Lord Krishna was everything to Periazhwar, Andal and Nammazhwar. For his disciple Madhurakavi, Nammazhwar was the ultimate guru and sang on him. However, Tondaradippodi Azhwar believed only in residing in Srirangam, and singing upon Lord Ranganatha. His prayer, “Pachai mamalai pol meni” continues to reverberate in temples and resonate with devotees over the centuries.

Born in Tirumandangudi under the Kettai star in the Tamil month of Margazhi, Tondaradippodi Azhwar established a garden to offer herbs and flowers to the Lord every day. He took pride in being a tolava tondan. He rendered two prabhandams — Tiruppalliezhuchi and Tirumaalai. It is often said that those who do not know Tirumaalai, do not know Tirumaal (Narayanan). Tiruppalliezhuchi is rendered in all the Vaishnava temples every day. He reinforced the efficacy of nama sankirtan. Such is the power of the Lord’s name that if uttered in hell, it turns into heaven! “Namanum Mudgalanum pesa… Naragil ninrargal ketka, naragame sorgamagum” (When Yama and Mudgalan were conversing, the latter simply said, Krishna. At once, hell turned into heaven).

In verse four of Andal’s Thiruppavai, gopikas summon Parjanya, the god of rains, and order him to rain. Devotees are close to Lord Krishna’s heart, so the devata of rains obeys the orders of the gopikas, T.N. Aravamuda Thathachariar explained in a discourse. The Lord, after all, is the One who resides inside everyone, including the devatas. He is present in everyone as antaryami.Lord Narayana has five forms — para, vyuha, vibhava, antaryami, and archa. The first three pasurams speak of the para, vyuha, and vibhava forms. In the fourth pasuram, Andal speaks of the antaryami form. It is said that the clouds refer to Acharyas, who lead us to Bhagavan. Scholars have compared Poigai Azhvar, Bhootatazhvar, Peyazhvar, Thirumazhisai Azhvar, Thirumangai Azhvar and Ramanujacharya to clouds. In Thiruvarangathamudanar’s Ramanuja Nootrandadi, Ramanujacharya is compared to clouds.

There is one difference between the gracious Ramanuja and clouds. Clouds may give too much rain, causing floods. Or they may give scanty rain, resulting in droughts. But there are no such problems in the case of Ramanujacharya. His teachings always lead his sishyas to the Lord. There is nothing negative in his approach.

The verse begins with the words ‘aazhi mazhai kanna’. But some scholars point out that this can be split as aazhi mazhaikku anna. Anna means elder brother. Krishna is the generous cloud, and His elder brother is Balarama. Balarama is the avatara of Adi Sesha. Ramanujacharya likewise is the avatara of Adi Sesha. So, it can be assumed that Ramanuja’s avatara, which is to take place in the future, is being suggested here.Goddess Bhumadevi once asked Lord Vishnu in Sri Vaikunta which service He liked the most. God replied that He relished the service of people making and offering garlands to Him.  Sri Dushyanth Sridhar said in a discourse that the Goddess took the avatar of Sri Andal to fulfil His cherished desire. Also called Godha, she was brought up by Vishnuchithar (Periazhwar) in an atmosphere of love and affection, who used to make garlands and offer the same to Lord Vatapatrasayee at Srivilliputhur daily.Sri Andal practised devotion from a young age and composed “Thiruppavai” and “Nachiar Thirumozhi”. Her life has been stitched into a perfect spiritual system. She showed us how to realise God through the spiritual act of stringing garlands and singing His paeans.  The term Andal refers to one who rules over. She had reigned over the people through her devotion, knowledge and clarity in words. In the fourth poem of Thiruppavai (Aazhi mazhai Kanna), she uses the unique Tamil letter “Zha“ 11 times, which shows her mastery of the language. It is said that the navagrahas act as guards to Lord Rama, Ranganatha and Srinivasa. Andal has mentioned in Thiruppavai about navagrahas — Sun and Moon (1st and 22nd poem), Mars (20th), Venus and Jupiter (13th), Saturn (20th), and Mercury (17th).

The thousand names of the Lord, narrated by Bhishma in the war of Kurukshetra, and known as the Vishnu Sahasranamam to all, is unique. There is no end to its efficacy. There is not a single undesirable characteristic in Him, rather He is the epitome of all that is right and just. Chanting Vishnu Sahasranamam and singing His praise is the only way to attain everything, His Holiness Srirangam Srimad Andavan (Srimushnam) Srivaraha Mahadesikan said in a discourse.One should know what is desirable conduct. When Draupadi was dishonoured in Duryodhana’s court, she reposed faith in His name and chanted ‘Govinda’, securing immediate benefit and succour. Vishnu Sahasranamam is one of the most nuanced renderings, with subtle, deep, and highly philosophical interpretations. In its literal form, it dovetails bhakti marg with mukhti marg.

It is human nature to become accustomed to certain comforts and experience difficulty when those comforts are gone, even if for a short while. The average person seeks to lead a fearless life but endowed with wealth. The ultimate blessing lies in chanting Vishnu Sahasranamam.

“Paramam yo Mahateja Paramam yo Mahattapa paramam yo maahad brahma par manya parayanam” says Bhishma. “That which is the greatest light, that which is the greatest penance, that which is the greatest brahmam, is the greatest shelter that I know” — the prayer is so powerful that it can be chanted even when one is unwell, since Vishnu namam is the ultimate medicine. Chanting the lines, “Sri Rama Rama rameti rame rame manorame; Sahasranama tat tulyam ramanama varanane” is also highly recommended. The best dharma in life is to chant Vishnu Sahasranamam and serve others, in His name.

A s 2 combined.

 

In centuries gone by, Vedas used to be recited very early in the morning. Belief was that 3am-430am in Margazhi was the most auspicious time to learn and recite the Vedas and Prabhandham and thus one benefits the most when one reads the Vedas and Prabhandham at this time. It is also a known fact that the planetary position of Moon is such that it would aid spiritual seekers on Ekadasi day.

Vaikunda Ekadesi

Legend has it that, to protect the Devas, Vishnu once fought a long battle with an Asura. Shakti, Vishnu's female energy, emerged out of his body and defeated the Asura. A pleased Vishnu named this maiden as Ekadesi and granted her the power to relieve people from the greatest sins, if they observed a fast on this day, and also to help them reach Vaikundam. Vaikunda Ekadesi is a very holy day and is spent fasting, praying and in meditation. Devotees look upon this austerity as a means to succeed in their spiritual endeavour. It is believed that there is no fasting that is even comparable to the Vaikunda Ekadasi fasting, such is its power.

Lord NamPerumal, in all his glory and resplendence, enters the Parama Padha Vaasal (the Gateway to Salvation) early in the morning on the Vaikunda Ekadesi day. Devotees pass through this symbolic Gateway to Heaven or Vaikundam, the abode of Lord Vishnu, to obtain his blessings and grace and to find their way to heaven.

‘Vedham Tamil Seitha Maaran’- The beginning of a 10 day festival

NammAzhvaar, the greatest among the Azhvaars, was primarily responsible for Naalaayira Divya Prabhandham( it was from NammAzhvaar that Natha Muni picked up the entire content of the Prabhandham- Natha Muni was directed by Aravamudai of tirukudandai and hence he is also referred to as ‘Vedham Tamil Seitha Maaran’. When one says just Azhvaar, it means the reference is to Nammazhvaar, such is the reverence for him.

As a mark of honouring the Azhvaar and his contribution to the Prabhandham, Lord NamPerumal himself comes to meet him every year at the 1000 Pillar Mandapam on each of the 10 days following the Vaikunta Ekadesi and listens to Araiyars singing and enacting the Azhvaar praise - 100 Paasurams a day from ThiruvaaiMozhi – for 10 days beginning Vaikunda Ekadesi for a total of 1000 Paasurams during the 10 day Ira Pathu period. All the Azhvaars are also present on the occasion as well as Ramanuja and ThiruKachi Nambi. Thus started the 10day Divya Prabhandham festival.

Madurakavi Azhvaar’s praise of NammAzhvaar

“Kanninun Sirutha Ambinaal

Katunappa Panniya Perumaayan

Ennapanil Nannith Then Kurugur Nambi Yenrakkaal

Anniku Amuthoorum Enraavukey”

(Madura Kavi’s praise of his Lord, NammAzhvaar….The wonder child -My Lord -was held on a leash of rope. And just uttering Kurugur Nambi’s (NammAzhvaar) name is like bringing nectar to oneself)

Especially Vaikunta Ekadasi is quite significant. It happens in the Tamizh month of Margazhi, where reciting of Vedas and Prapandam is considered auspicious. This happens as a twenty days event where the first ten days before Vaikunta Ekadasi are called Pagal Pathu, where 2000 pasurams from the prabandham are recited. The first ten days festival are in the honor of the last azhwar, Tirumangai Azhwar for his commendable effort in constructing the fort like compound walls of the Srirangam temple. He was also instrumental in organizing the ten day Tamizh Divya prabandham festival in consent with Lord Namperuman. 

On Vaikunta Ekadasi day, Lord Namperuman of Srirangam with His paraphernalia enters the Vaikunta Vaasal (Parama Pada Vaasal) to grace His devotee Nammazhvar, who immediately seeks Moksham or salvation. However Lord Namperuman delays this request as He wants to listen to Tiruvaimozhi rendered by Nammazhvar. There are over 1000 pasurams in Tiruvaimozhi and these are recited in the form of song and dance by a group called Arayar in Srirangam, who enact and praise the azhwars and recite 100 pasurams per day, popularly known as Arayar Sevai. This ten day festival starting from Vaikunta Ekadasi is known as IRa Pathu.

Nammazhwar Moksham: From the day of Vaikunta Ekadesi, Ira Pathu festival commences, where 100 pasurams from Tiruvaimozhi are recited and culminates with Nammazhwar Moksham.

NammAzhvaar didn’t want ‘life’ anymore. He asked for Moksham on the very first day. NammAzhvaar’s desire to attain Moksham is said to have been as big as the sky. Lord, however, wanted to make a positive change to the world through his Paasurams and wanted everyone to absorb the beautiful Paasurams of NammAzhvaar. As the Lord decided that the world should benefit from Nammazhvaar’s Paasurams, he delayed the Moksham of NammAzhvaar till the very last day.

Finally after listening to the beautiful Paasurams of ThiruvaaiMozhi, Lord gives in. The Lord was so taken in by the Paasurams that it is said Lord wanted to take NammAzhvaar to Vaikuntam in the same form. “It was this body that rendered the beautiful Prabhandham to the world and hence I want to take you with me with your body itself” was Lord’s view.

Last of the Azhvaars, Thirumangai Azhvaar, also made a significant contribution to the Prabhandham. His biggest contribution to the Srirangam temple was his effort in building the huge fort like walls around the prakaarams. It was also Thirumangai Azhvaar who wanted this to be a Tamil Divya Prabhandham festival(as against just the Vedic recital that existed before his time) and requested the Lord to make this so. And the Lord is said to have agreed.

Nathamuni wanted to create a festival for ThiruMangai Azhvaar for his contribution to the Prabhandham. Thus started the 10 day Pagal Pathu festival (the opening 10 days of the festival) which precedes the Vaikunta Ekadesi. At Srirangam, Lord NamPerumal listens to the 1st 2000 Paasurams at Arjuna Mandapam during the first 10 days.

A specialist Araiyar

Beginning the Amaavasai day in December, the 4000 Divya Prabandham is enacted by the Araiyars (King of Music), the descendents of Natha Muni, who is believed to have introduced the Araiyar Sevai.

Lord Ranganatha himself is said to have given the Araiyars the right to perform the unique musical chanting at Divya Desams and presented them with the cone-like cap, two cymbals and the sacred garland (which they wear around their neck when they perform). Araiyars have been bestowed the special right to start as well as end the Paasurams in Vaishnavite temples through their special song and dance sequence.

On the tenth day, after the Tiruvaimozhi recitation is over, Lord Namperuman finally yields to the pleading Nammazhwar who had been seeking Moksham from the first day of Vaikunta Ekadasi, after Nammazhwar falls at His feet (Tiruvadi Thozal). In order to bring out the greatness of Nammazhwar and his pasurams, Lord Namperuman took him to Vaikuntam in his full form (with his body). i.e Nammazhwar attained salvation (Moksham) on this day. The crowd bereft of Nammazhvar becomes restless and requests Lord Vishnu to return Nammazhwar to humanity as his service is still required for their upliftment. Lord Namperuman consents by saying, "Thandhom", meaning granted. Hence Nammazhwar returns to his place and continues his service to the humanity. This event is witnessed by Sri Ramanujar and Tirukachi Nambi. This event is celebrated as a grand festival for twenty days, starting from Pagal Pathu and ends with Nammazhwar Moksham.

Nammazhwar Moksham is certainly a treat to the eyes, this is celebrated in a grand manner in Srirangam. Lord Sri Namperuman, in order to honor Nammazhwar, descends from Vaikuntam to meet him every day for ten days and listens to Tiruvaimozhi by  Arayar (Arayar Sevai). This event happens at the 1000 pillared  Manimandapam at Srirangam.

Sunday 30th December 2007 - 1.30am

6 Araiyars(Ramanuja, Sampath, Varadarajan, Narayanan, Rangarajan and Devarajan) arrived at the 1000 Pillar Mandapam at 1.30am and for the next hour and a half they kept the devotees, who had stayed awake late night to witness the Araiyar Sevai, captivated with the enactment of the final 100 paasurams of NammAzhvaar’s ThiruvaaiMozhi.

By the time they had presented this song, dance enactment with the Abhinayam of 90 of the last 100 Paasurams of the Prabhandham, it was 3am. It was once again a tireless effort by the Araiyars. As long as these Araiyars of Srirangam continue to show the passion that they displayed on this night, one can be assured that the Araiyar Sevai, at least in Srirangam, is here to stay for another generation and more.

They went back well after the clock had struck 3 only to return in a couple of hours for the balance 10 paasurams and conclusion of Thiruvaaimozhi.

At 6am, the 6 Araiyars were back at it again and along with NammAzhvaar make their way to the Thirumaamani Mandapam. With NammAzhvaar placed in front of NamPerumal, the Araiyars begin the recital of the balance 10 paasurams (they had presented 90 of the last 100 paasurams of ThiruvaaiMozhi till 3am earlier that morning).

And as the Araiyars recited the last of Paasurams of Naalaayira Divya Prabhandham, NammAzhvaar falls on the feet of NamPerumal and attains Moksham, quite a dramatic scene. Subsequent to this, NammAzhvaar adorns the garland worn by NamPerumal himself.

The Last verse of Prabhandham

“Avaa Aara Choozh Ariyai Ayanai Aranai Alatri

Avaa Atru Veedu Petra Kurugur Sadagopan Sonna

Avaail Anthaathigalaal Ivai Aayiram Mudintha

Avaail Anthaathi Ippathu Arinthaar Piranthaar Uyarnthey”

(The 1000 songs on the Lord is by Thiru Kurugur Sadagopan who found his liberation(Moksham). Those who master these verses will attain Moksham too)