Sundarmoorthiyar

2

Sundaramoorthy Nayanar

Thirukkailayam…

Easan and Annai are seated and Easan is lost in thoughts…

Annai

Emperuman appears to be deep in thoughts! May I know what He is thinking about!

Easan

You are aware of everything! When I expressed my anguish of not having a father and mother, You also expressed your misery of not having suckled a child. I took Karaikkal Ammayar as Ammai and Thirunavukkarasar as Appar and your distress was resolved by having Gyanasambandan as our Pillayar!

Annai

You also took Kannappar as your friend.

Easan

Yes! When he was about to remove his second eye also, I stopped him and took him as a friend of Mine! But he forgets himself whenever he sees Me and goes into raptures with tears streaming from his eyes. Though I have taken him as My friend, he still considers Me as Iraivan only! But I want to be a friend of someone and do what all a friend does to help him!

Annai (laughingly)

It appears that your desires are as limitless as You are! Anyway… What all one will do for his friend!

Easan

Though one has parents, brothers, sisters and other relatives, he spends most of his time with his friends only, be it when he is studying and later on when he is doing a job. A friend is one who understands the needs and act to help his friend in distress without being asked! Like giving him food when he is hungry, giving him money when he is in need, to share his personal secret when he is smitten by love, to be a messenger to convey his feelings to his lady love, to help in arranging his wedding, to act as a mediator when there is a dispute among the couple, be a good teacher and advisor, to be a servant and even be prepared give up his life for the sake of his friend! True friendship must be like that!

Annai

I doubt that this wish of Yours will ever be fulfilled!

Easan

Devi! How do you conclude that?

Annai

Where is this friend of Yours? Does he exist now? If not, when and from where he will come? Who can it be? Is he one living among the Devas or one who is living on the earth? Is he going to be born or is he already there? Who can be Your friend among the eighteen Ganas of Ours? I doubt very much!

Easan

Amarar, Chittar, Asurar, Daityar,garudar, Gandarvar, Kinnarar, Thirudhar, Kimpudar, Yatshakar, Vidyadarar, Bhoothar, Paisasar, Antharar, Trikalamunivar, Uragar, the Akasajeeviayr and Bhoomiyar are our eighteen Ganas. Out of them only those who are born on earth as Bhoomiyar cultivate friendship and live by it. Pisiranthayar and Kulotthungan, Avvai and Adiyaman , Karnan and Duryodanan are great examples f lasting friendship.

Annai is looking elsewhere…

Annai (wondering)

Your wish is going to fructify!   Please look there! There goes Your Aalalasundarar entering My flower garden to pluck flowers!

Easan looks there.

   *****

Aalalasundarar walks into the Nandavanam of Annai lost in the fragrance of the flowers. Concentrating on Easan and murmuring Panchaksharam, he goes around looking for fragrant flowers to make garland for Easan. Inadvertently he enters the area where only females are permitted and starts plucking flowers there.

Two personal servants of Annai, Kamalini and Aninthithai also reach there for picking flowers for Annai and start chatting. Realising they are getting late …

Aninthithai

We must have plucked the flowers for Annai by now! We have been chatting forgetting our task. Let us hurry now.

As they hurry ahead, they see AalalaSundarar walking towards them. His handsome figure and gait mesmerises them. AalalaSundarar also casts his eyes on them and is totally infatuated by their beauty.

Aninthithai

This is Annai Parvathi’s private area. Males are not permitted here. Please get out of here quickly.

Though her tone was threatening, she is smitten by his handsome look.

AalalaSundarar extends both his arms in a welcoming gesture without replying and looks at her with great love. Aninthithai surrenders into his arms unable control her passion. The flower basket tied behind Sundarar falls down and the flowers scatter around making a soft and fragrant bed on the floor. Overcome with lust Kamalini also runs to him and hugs him from behind. The three of them get totally lost within in themselves unmindful of the time. After their lovemaking all three of them sleep. When it is dawn and the sun rays prick them, they wake up. Sundarar sees the two women lying on both of his sides and the flowers scattered all around. Realising that he has totally forgotten his duty towards Easan, he is both sad and distraught. He runs searching for Easan. Aninthithai and Kamalini also wake up.

   ****

As they run into Annai, they cast their heads down ashamed to face Annai because of their act.

Annai

I am disgusted by your behavior and to call you both as my personal servants. You are supposed to marry the man of your choice by following due rituals with Agni as witness before indulging in physical intimacy. You are standing in front of Me after your despicable conduct driven by lust. There is no place for both of you here anymore. You will be born in earth as human beings. Since Kamalini had physical intimacy with the man with whom Aninthithai fell in love first, she will be born as a Dasi!   

Both the women fall on the feet of Annai and cry realising their folly. They request Annai to grant them recourse from Her curse. 

   ****

At the same time….

Aalalasundarar is standing in front of Him with his head bowed ashamed of his action. Easan looks at him feigning anger!

Easan

What is this? Having declared that you are My servitor forever, you have not only forgotten Me last night but also losing yourself indulged in lustful escapade last night!

Aalalasundarar (shedding tears)

Easane! Emperumane! I am Your servitor always! My duty is only to serve You! What happened last night is surprising me! I have been living with total control on my senses and leading the life of a Brahmachari! I became infatuated and mad on seeing two beautiful women there. I forgot my duty and vow! Please forgive me and allow me to continue my service here.

Easan looks at Aalalasundarar with great compassion but pretends that He is terribly annoyed!

Easan

You will be born as a human being as you have forgotten to do your duty.

Aalalasundarar is terribly perturbed.

Sundarar (with tears streaming from his eyes)

I have been serving You without leaving You even for a second! I am your slave! How can I live leaving You?

Easan (compassionately)

Sundara! All these events happened as per My plan only… You have been help for Me till now! Now I will be your help… I have taken you as My friend. You will go to the southern part. There you will be born as Nambi Aarooran and marry Kamalini and Aninthithai and lead a family life happily. When you realise what is true dharma, you will reunite with Me!

Aalalasundarar

I have no idea as o what plans You have for mw! I am your slave and will do Your bidding always! But the human mind is very fragile and wavering! Please save me whenever I am dazed or in stupor in my human form.

Easan

So it will be!

Keeping Easan in his mind, Aalalasundarar starts walking towards south with his arms above his head with palms cupped chanting Panchaksharam.       

   *****

Thirumunaippadi…

Sadayanar enters his house and observes that his pregnant wife Isaigyaniyar doing household chores. Sadayanar

What is this? We have prayed to Easan to beget the child you are carrying. You must not strain yourself doing work since the baby may be born any day now.

Isaigyaniyar (pleased by the care shown by her husband)

You need not worry. You have been serving Easan all your life and He will never harm to you!

In the month of Aadi under the star Swathi, Aalalasundarar is born to them with his past life totally obliterated in his mind.  On observing many auspicious signs appearing in the village at the time of his birth, the Anthanars of the village rush to his house. Sadayanar conveys the happy news of the birth of his son and gifts them gold and other goods.

Anthanar 1

 Sadayanare! It is scorching mid day but still the wind is blowing cold and pleasing! Is it because Easan wants the new born to be in comfort!

Anthanar 2

Look! Only on seeing the Garudan circling above your house from right to left, we rushed to your house as it is the most auspicious sign! This is a sure indication that our village is going to be blessed because of your son!

Anthanar 3

From our calculations based on the day and time of the birth, your son will become famous throughout the world. As he is born to Isaigyaniyar, he will be very proficient in singing and by composing songs he will be a great scholar!

He will have two wives! He will have close friendship with the king! He will sport a crown on his head! He will be hailed wherever he goes! His parents will acquire Sivapadhavi! He will have immeasurable glory!

 Sadayanar is highly pleased to hear about the future of his son and requests them to give suitable name for the child.

Anthanar 3

An illustrious male is referred as “Nambi”! Add his grandfather’s name of Aarooran and name  him Nambi Aarooran! 

As Sadayanar says the name “Nambi Aarooran” thrice in the ear of the baby to the chanting of Veda mantram and auspicious music, people bless the child by showering flower petals!

   ******

 Aarooran turns three and starts taking his baby steps. Sadayanar buys a wooden toy chariot for him and ties a colourful cord to drag and walk along with it. He drags the toy and walks along the road attracting the attention of all passersby who are enchanted by his beautiful looks. At that time, the king Narasingamunayar comes there driving his royal chariot. Seeing the baby Aarooran  walking along with his toy chariot, he stops and gets down as the onlookers are worried that the child may get hurt. He picks up the child and hugs him with great love.

Mannar (ccaringly0

My dear son! You must play in your house and not on the public street!

Aarooran

How can anyone run a chariot at home? Isn’t it to be driven in the street only?

The mannar is pleased by the ready wit of the child and also his innocence and hugs the baby close to his chest.

Mannar

Whose child is this?

Sadayanar (rushing there and bowing to mannar)

Aarooran is my son.

Aarooran laughs seeing his father there. The mannar is smitten by the innocent laughter of the child.

Mannar

This child is very sharp and handsome. If he grows up in my palace, I will get him trained in all arts and educate him to become a renowned great scholar! I will return him to you when he reaches marriageable age. Will you please give your consent?

Sadayanar and Isaigyaniyar agree to the proposal of the king to bring up their son. Mannar returns in his chariot along with Aarooran.

    *******

Aarooran is brought up in the palace with all the comfort of a prince. He learns the languages of the south and north among other subjects. On his attaining the age of seven, upanayanam is performed according to Vedic rites. Charmed by his bright countenance everyone blesses him when Aarooran comes seeking alms as per custom at the end of the ceremony. At the end, he reaches the mannar.

Mannar  

You are a bright young lad and it shows in your radiant countenance. From now on you will be called “Sundaran”.

The Mannar, his parents and others who have assembled bless him.

     ******

Aarooran is sixteen years of age…

He has mastered al the arts and becomes a knowledgeable pundit. The mannar hands him over to his parents as promised.

Thirunavalur…

Isaigyaniyar showers her unbound love on her son to make up for his long separation from them. The days pass by.

One day, Sadayanar speaks to him.

Sadayanar

 Mahane! You have mastered all the arts and skills in the palace. What to do you plan to do further?

Aarooran

Thanthaye! What do you expect me to do?

Sadayanar

The one who is a Brahmin by birth must either be reciting Vedas or teach Vedas to others. Otherwise, he should involve himself in the service of temples. What do you like to choose?

Aarooran

For that it would have been sufficient to learn Vedas only. Where was the need for learning various languages and other arts and skills?

Sadayanar (angrily)

What do you mean to say?

Aarooran

I have been brought up in the palace like a prince. After leading such a luxurious life, it is not possible for me to lead a simple life. That too, doing physical work for temple is impossibility! I will meet the mannar and express my desire to become either a minister or an advisor in his administration!

His parents are shocked.

Isaigyaniyar

Mahane! We are Aadisaivars! Our duty is to only serve Sivan and no one else!

Aarooran

Amma! Please forgive me. I have no inclination for such work. I do not want to waste my time  as a servitor of Easan.

His parents are shocked hearing his resolute answer.

Aarooran

 I have been separated from you all these years. I wish to stay with you now happily married along with my wife and children as a large family.

Isaigyaniyar (to herself)

Perhaps, he is indirectly hinting that he wants to get married! I only hope his father will not get angry at him.

Isaigyaniyar (to Aarooran)

Where is the hitch? You are both handsome and knowledgeable! There will be a stiff competition among the households to have you as their groom!

Sadayanar

Beauty is only an outward manifestation. As one grows old, the outward beauty withers! But real beauty is internal beauty! It gets enhanced only be spiritual thoughts. I was anguished when you said that you did not have any inclination for spiritual thinking.  When you said that you did not want to waste your time serving Easan, I was totally shattered.  You have indirectly indicated that you want to get married. It is therefore not proper for me to delay in carrying out my responsibility as a father. I will look for a suitable match for you to marry. That will be my foremost task. Let Easan take care of others!

He looks at his wife with tears in his eyes while Aarooran feels elated that he is going to be married soon!

Sadayanar

I would rather prefer and elated if people know me as your father than people recognising you as my son.

Isaigyaniyar

As elders have predicted, he will bring name and fame to us and to this town! Go in peace and come back with good news!

 Sadayanar leaves to look for a bride for his son half-heartedly!

    ******

Thirukkailayam …

Annai

Have you heard what Aarooran said to his parents? He admitted that he has no inclination for spirituality and has no wish to waste his life in Your service! He has opted to lead a life with wife and children and boldly informed his parents also of the same. Look! His father has gone to Puththur and concluded the alliance with the daughter of Sadankavi Sivachchariyar! He has decided the date of wedding also. Once the marriage takes place, We will have to forget about him!

Easan

The Wedding day will come. The bride and groom will also arrive at the wedding venue! But unless the   ceremony is concluded by handing over the bride, the marriage is incomplete!

Annai (amazed)

What are You saying? Do you mean that the wedding will not take place!

Iraivan does not reply .

Annai (thinking)

Who knows the mind of Sivan?

Easan laughs aloud hearing this.

    *****

Puththur…

A huge wedding pandal decorated with flowers and pearls are erected in front of Sadangavi Sivachchariyar’s house. The whole village is in very joyous mood to celebrate the wedding of the foster son of their king, Narasingamunaivar. The king accompanied by his ministers and the bigwigs of the village are seated in the pandal.  As the bridegroom belongs to the clan of ‘Aadi Saiva Sivachchariyars’. Yagakundam has been established and a yagam is performed as per Vedic rites. The bride groom enters the pandal in wedding finery, wearing a crown and sporting necklaces of all the nine types of gems. He is wearing a silken veshti and angavastram with golden borders. Sporting garlands of aromatic flowers, his body is also smeared with scents of fine fragrance. He is lead to a slightly raised platform and seated there to the accompaniment of auspicious instrumental music. 

Praying to Suriyanar, a string is tied around his wrist for protection and to ward off any evil eye. 

In a short while the bride is also brought there.

All those assembled are happy to see a beautiful and fitting match of the bride and the groom.

After praying to Suriyanar a string is tied to her wrist also.

Now the playing of musical instruments stop as the proceedings for the wedding ceremony is about to start. Silence prevails…

Purohithar (in a commanding voice)

Let the parents of the bride come forward!    

The parents come near them and bow to all the assembled people.

He then calls the parents of the groom to come forward. They also come up.

Purohithar

Sadangavi Sivachchariyar! Are you willing to do Kannigathanam of your daughter in marriage to Aarooran, son of Sadayanar?

The Bride’s parents

 Yes! We do!

He gives golden pitcher filled with water to the wife of Sadangavi Sivachchariyar ..

Purohithar (addressing Sadangavi Sivachchariyar)

Please repeat , “ For our  daughter to lead a prosperous and splendid life  and be faithful to her husband ever, we hereby hand her over to this man, Nambi Aarooran,  son of Sadayanar”. 

The parents of the bride place the palms of the bride over the palms of Aarooran while groom’s parents holding their son’s hands as per the norms called for in accepting the thanam (free gift) The mother brings up the pitcher of water and slants it up and the father is about to direct the water on to the joined palms of the bride and the groom.

Suddenly, there is a loud and authoritative voice in the pandal, “Stop this marriage! You folks who are assembled here must here me now”. Everyone looks in the direction of the voice without a stir.

The mother of bride stops her attempt to pour the water and the two parents look at the direction where that command came from?

There…

Iraivan…..With his forehead smeared with thiruneeru… sporting ear studs and a neck ring   … with the muppurinool  across his chest…  a  knee length  garland of rudraksham …  an  angavastram swaying on  his shoulder… a white garment covering his waist…. an umbrella tucked in his armpit…  a bundle of  darba grass clutched in his left palm…  a walking stick to support his elderly frame in his right hand…

 Iraivan…. He stands in the garb of an very aged  Brahmin.

Aarooran  looks at Him… Easan also looks at him. The radiating brightness of Easan’s eyes blind Aarooran  for a moment…  

Purohithar(stunned by the radiant and gracious looks of Iraivan)

Oh! Great Brahmin! We are blessed by your presence here. Please let us know the purpose of your coming here. Please tell us whatever you want to say quickly. The marriage is about to take place!

Easan  (ordering)

Looking at Aarooran seated majestically in all wedding finery…

Aaroora! You can marry only after you conclude your obligation to Me and end the great dispute between us.

Nambi Aarooran 

Ye! Brahmin! I have not seen you ever in my life…  In what way are we related? Still, if there is a dispute between us, let me settle it first.   Then I will marry!

He gets up.  Totally perplexed all those assembled also get up. The bride’s parents are dumbfounded.  Hanging her head down, the bride goes into tears.  Even Annai Parvati at Kailayam is upset seeing her condition.

Easan (looking at Aarooran)

Ye! Brahmins! Here Me now! This man, Navalooran, is my slave. That is my case!

Taking it as a joke, people who were  a bit  tense all along laugh out loudly.

Aarooran (annoyed by the elderly man being laughed at because of the Jenmajenmandra Bhandhan without even knowing it)

Anthanare! Please stand aside. After the wedding ceremony is over, please bless us and take part in the feast and eat to your heart’s content. You may then kindly leave .   

On hearing this the people laugh again annoying Easan.

Easan (in a threatening tone)

You are my slave. Come with me this very moment without arguing with me.

Aarooran and the assembled people lose their composure.

Aarooran (irritated)

Ayyare! I am not your slave. You have mistaken me for somebody else and creating an unwarranted brawl here.

Easan (in a commanding voice)

I am very well aware of you, your parents Sadayanar and Isaigyaniyar as well as your grandfather Aarooran. Do not play smart with me!  You better get ready and accompany me this very moment.

On hearing this confident retort of the Brahmin, the entire assembly falls silent.

The king Narasingamunaiyar who has been observing the goings on quietly addresses the elderly Brahmin.

Mannar

Periyavare! What proof you have to corroborate that Aarooran is your slave?

Easan

 I have a “Allolai”, a document written on palm leaf.

Mannar

What is meant by “Allolai”?

Easan

It is a document confirming the enslavement. When someone becomes a slave of another person, he writes this document in palm leaf in his own hand agreeing to be his slave. This is called “Allolai”.

Aarooran (gently laughing)

Anthanare! If you have such a document in your possession, please show it here.

After enacting a little drama like an old man, as if He is   searching for the palm leaf around his waist, Easan takes out a leaf acting as if He is visibly relieved! He takes it close to His eyes as if He is reading to verify its contents. He lifts that leaf above his head for everyone to see.

Easan (looking at Aarooran)

Long time ago, this “Allolai” was given by your grandfather. What is there for you to laugh at it?

As He again lifts the palm leaf above for everyone to see, the assembly becomes silent.

Aarooran (stopping his laughter in an angry tone)

I have neither heard nor seen of a Brahmin become a slave of another Brahmin.  Are you a madcap? ( Piththano?)  What makes you to come here and blabber all this nonsense?

Easan ( in a firm tone)

Let Me become a madcap (Piththan) ! Let Me also become a ghoul later on!   I will not feel  even if you call Me names! Alas! You have still not recognised Me!  Follow me without any further arguments.

Aarooran

Please hand over the “Allolai” if you have one. Let me see and ascertain the truth.

Aarooran extends his hand to receive the palm leaf.

Easan

I am not a fool to hand over that leaf to you since you are the affected party!  Your job is only to slave under Me! You do that! Let the assembled people see it!

So saying Easan tries to hide the palm leaf from Aarooran.  Aarooran becomes furious and tries to grab the palm leaf from the old Brahmin by force. The Brahmin runs here and there dodging Aarooran and in the process dropping his umbrella and the bundle of grass on the floor. Soon Aarooran catches up with Him. Grabbing and twisting His hand, he takes hold of the palm leaf. Shouting that it is against the norms for a brahmin to be a salve of another brahmin, he tears the palm leaf into pieces and throws them away.

The king is visibly upset by this act. Sadayanar, his father is also baffled by this audacious act of his son. The assembled public is dumbfounded by this hasty act of Aarooran.

Easan

Hey! Do you think that you can escape from Me by tearing the “Allolai”?

Easan catches hold of him to make sure that Aarooran cannot move even an inch. Aarooran struggles to extricate himself from His clutches.

Mannar (annoyed by all these commotion taking place in his presence orders)

Aaroora! Stop your struggle.

Aarooran stops his struggle.

Mannar

Periyavare! Please let him off!

Easan loses his grip and lets him off half-heartedly.

Mannar

It is not in our custom to enslave a brahmin under another brahmin.  It is also an unacceptable practice. At the same time, we are unable to ascertain the truth as the palm leaf has also been destroyed. What we  do now?

Easan

Ignoring the established norms, Aarooran by grabbing the palm leaf by force from Me and destroying it has accepted the authenticity of the palm leaf . He is my slave for sure!

Easan (Looking at Aarooran)

 Now you follow me quickly.

Aarooran (pleading to the assembled public)

That was a plain palm leaf. There was nothing written in it…. Please do not believe this madcap. He  has brought a dummy palm leaf to enslave me.

Mannar (addressing Easan in the garb of an elderly Brahmin)

You are contesting an unheard of custom of this part of the world. Who are You? From where You have come? Where do you stay?

Easan

Thiruvennainallur is my town. People know me as Thiruvenkadar. My abode is the biggest in the whole town. Please send Aarooran with me without any further hassles.

Aarooran (shouting)

 Do You consider Yourself a great lawyer?  Let me see that you contest whether it is correct or not to enslave a brahmin in your town of Thiruvennainallur.

 Easan

If you choose to contest this case at Thiruvennainallur, I will prove that you are my slave in front of the judges.

Easan walks out slowly taking the support of the walking stick. Aarooran walks behind, with his head bowed. The king, his parents, the bride with her parents and the public who have gathered to attend the wedding ceremony all follow them. The news that a peculiar unheard of case of brahmin claiming another brahmin as his slave is going to be decided by the judges at Thiruvennainallur spreads like wild fire. People from far and wide rush to Thiruvennainallur to witness the proceedings.

There...

In the Court of Justice...

A panel of five judges are seated on the platform...

The chamber is filled to the brim withonlookers jostling for space...

Easan, in the garb of old Brahmin reaches there. Aarooran follows Him and stands in front of Him.

As the king enters the judges raise and pay their compliments to the king.  A throne is placed for king. After the king takes his seat, the proceedings start...

The Chief Judge

 You Nambi Aarooran who has come to this court in wedding finery and You, the elderly Brahmin!  Tell us what your dispute is?  

Aarooran (fearing that the old Brahmin may present His version first, comes up quickly and speaks)

Learned judges! Let me first narrate the events. From the day of my birth till today, I have never met this man ... I do not know who he is ... Today, just when I was about to marry, he entered the marriage venue and claimed that I am his slave. All these days he has never shown his face and all of a sudden on the day of my wedding, he came and stopped my marriage... The bride and her parents are in tears as the wedding has been stopped and as they do not know what will happen now, they are greatly anguished.

As he indicates them with his hand, the public feel great sympathy for them and at the same time they look at the old Brahmin in anger and disgust.  

Aarooran (continuing)

I pray that you find the truth and issue orders to let me off from his clutches and conclude my marriage ceremonies.

Bowing to the judges he stands aside.

Easan

You ridiculed me whether I was a great lawyer earlier! But you have earned the sympathy of all in no time!  Are you a great lawyer or Am I?

The Chief Judge (reprovingly)

Anthanare! Stop unnecessary arguments and state only what your case is. Before that, please state your name, your native place and where you reside. 

Easan    

My name is Piththan! (Madcap)

The public is aghast and heave a sigh of surprise whether anyone could have a name as Piththan.

Easan (continuing)

I belong to this very town of Thiruvennainallur! This biggest abode in this town is Mine! For a long time I have been in the North and I returned only yesterday. ... When I went in search of my slave Aarooran, I learnt that he has gone to Puthur to get married... I therefore went there and found him in the nick of time.... Otherwise, he would have already got married....

The Chief Judge

It is not in vogue that a Brahmin becomes a slave of another Brahmin. What have to say for this?

Easan

When I was about to show the palm leaf proclaiming that he is my slave, he forcibly snatched it from me and tore into pieces... The one he tore is the “Allolai” written by his grandfather.  

The Chief Judge

Aaroora!  Is that true that you tore of the palm leaf as told by this old man?

Aarooran

Yes!  It is true that I tore off the palm leaf. But there was nothing written in that... This madcap is bent on making me his slave and enacting this drama with that aim only! 

Easan (to Himself with a wry smile)

My dear Aaroora! I am enacting  koothu  every day in this entire universe!  Because of that  many call me as kooththadi ! How naïve you are in accusing Me of enacting this  as drama where as you only now acting as if you are innocent?

The Chief Judge

Aaroora! You have destroyed the evidence and therefore you have to accept what this staggering old man says.

He then looks at Easan.

The Chief Judge

Periyavare! Is there any other evidence to prove that he is a slave of yours?

Easan

Kindly tell me what other evidences I have to produce?

The Chief Judge

First

whatever you produce that is to be in an accepted norm of this court.

The second is the written agreement.

If there is no written agreement, two independent witnesses who can corroborate what you say.

It will be sufficient even if you are able to produce any one of them.

Easan

I knew that Aarooran will come out with many tricks and complicate the issue.... I showed him only a duplicate palm leaf... the original is safely with me.

Looking at Aarooran, He gives a mischievous smile.

Aarooran is aghast and lets out a loud sigh.

The public are stunned  by the way the case is taking a turn.

The Chief Judge

If you have the evidence, show it immediately...

Easan

He has grabbed the one I showed earlier by force and destroyed it. What is the guarantee that he will not do the same to the original leaf here also?

The Chief Judge

Oh! Learned Brahmin! We will ensure that you will not come to any harm. You can show the palm leaf   without any fear.

Easan searches for it as if He is not enthusiastic in producing it. However he takes it out of his garment from around His waist and shows it.

There is audible murmuring   among the crowd. The Chief Judge brings order. He calls for the Court     Accountant and he comes forward.

The Chief Judge (ordering the accountant)

Go and obtain the palm leaf from the elderly Brahmin. After ascertaining its antiquity, read aloud the contents of the agreement therein so that everyone can hear.

The accountant obtains the palm leaf from Easan and checks its antiquity.

Accountant

This palm leaf is very old! If someone tries to write anything on it, it will crumble to powder... Therefore this palm leaf is not only very old but also has been preserved with its writings carefully.Let me now read its contents

The Accountant reads the contents in the form of a poem from the palm leaf.

The Chief Judge

 Dear Aaroora! Do you understand what does this palm leaf written by your grandfather conveys?  Listen to what I am going to say,

 “The eminent Veda exponent and Aadi Saivan Aarooran is writing this undertaking to Thiruvennainallur Piththan: Me and the descendants of mine will forever be at your service both mentally and physically.  This is written in my own hand willingly and at my own free will.”

This is the explanation of what is written in the palm leaf. This Court also accepts the authenticity of the executor and of the witnesses to this deed.

Hearing this pronouncement, Aarooran is downcast.

The Chief Judge

Aaroora! What have you to say in reply?

Aarooran

Will anyone execute such a slave bond like this? It appears to be the handwork of this old man. What is the proof that this palm leaf was written only by grandfather? I doubt it.

The Chief Judge

If that is so, you yourself examine the handwriting and confirm whether or not the handwriting is that of your grandfather.

At this juncture Easan intervenes.

Easan

Is he qualified to examine the contents? No…The only way to verify is to compare the writings with another document if there is any, written by his grandfather, let it be brought here and examined by the judges. Let truth prevail!

The Chief Judge

I accept your argument.  Sadayanare! If there are any palm leaves written by your father in your possession, please produce them here.

Sadayanar quickly goes home and returns with a few palmleaf manuscripts written by his father and submits them to the court. All the five judges compare the palm leaves produced with that given by the old Brahmin and nod their heads as if in agreement. Aarooran and the assembled public are keenly watching their every move silently and are awaiting the verdict.

The Chief Judge

There is nothing to discuss. The time has come to deliver the judgment.

Aaroora! Anthanare! Both of you please come in front of the judges. Both of them come in front and stand in reverence to hear the verdict.

The Chief Judge

Nambi Aaroorare!  You have lost your case. The handwriting in the palm leaf is that of your grandfather only.  It has proved that even Brahmins can be enslaved as propounded by this old Brahmin. Therefore we the judges pronounce that you will serve this old Brahmin.

The public express their sympathy and Aarooran sheds copious tears on hearing the verdict.

Aarooran ( in a saddened tone)

If this is to be my destiny, where is the way for me to counter it ?

 With a heavy heart the King and the public rise.

The Chief Judge (addressing the old Brahmin)

Periyavare! From the palm leaf, we come to know that you belong to this town only. But, none of us have ever seen you before! Where is your residence? Will you please take us there?

Easan (catching hold of Aarooran’s hand)

If none of you know Me, come along with Me! I will show you!

He walks ahead with Aarooran and his parents following behind Him.  The king, the judges and the public who have come for the wedding follow them. The people of Thiruvennainallur also follow them. Easan reaches the temple of Thiruvennainallur and takes everyone into the sannathi. He releases his grip on Aarooran and runs to the moolavar and merges into the Lingam in front of all those assembled! Aarooran also follows him and enters the sannathi.

To the great sounds of trumpets and conch shells, Easan appears with Annai Parvathi mounted on his Nandi vahanam.

What a spectacle!

Aarooran prostrates in front of them in great ecstasy with tears rolling down his eyes in torrents!

Aarooran (weeping)

 Emperumane! Is that You, who has enlightened  me by force? Is this Your drama?

Easan (blessing)

Aaroora!  You were my servitor in your earlier birth.  Engulfed by lust You neglected your duty  and therefore you were ordered by Me to be born as you are now in this earth. At that time you have requested me to intervene in this birth so that  you will have no furtherarduous rebirths in this world. So I have to come to enlighten you!

All the festive and auspicious musical instruments raise a din and the heavens shower flowers on Aarooran.  The Vedic chants fill the air and all the people assembled there go into raptures and prostrate to Easan, Annai and Aarooran in great reverence.

Easan (addressing Aarooran)

Since you called me names and used harsh words against me, you will henceforth be known as “Vanthondan” and I want to hear your song in exquisite Tamil from now on!

Aarooran (overcome with emotion)

You ordered me to sing !  Coming in the garb of an old Brahmin, You won over me in the court. I am an insignificant  small fry not knowing your enormity and grace! What will I compose on You and how and where to start?

Easan (laughing)

You addressed me as “Piththan” ( a madcap). So begin your first composition with that very word of “Piththan”.

Aarooran (addressing Easan as Piththa and looking at Him)

“Pithha Pirai soodi Perumane Arulala,

Eththan maravadhe ninaikkinren manaththunnai

Vaiththai  pennai thenpal Vennainallur  arutruraiyul

Aththa unakkala yini allel ena laame”

Hearing this song so sweet the assembled people go into raptures.

Easan

Since I enlightened you dressed in wedding finery (Kalayankolam) on this day of your wedding, let this be your daily outfit  (nithyakolam)forever.  Sundaramoorthiyare! Now you visit all my abodes where I will be waiting for you to hear your songs Thus You will fulfil your karmavinaigal in this  birth.

So saying Easan merges into the Lingam!

All of them except three are left in the sannathi.

Annai looks at Easan. There is a tinge of sadness in Her countenance.

The Bride

Iraivane! What can I beg from You? Me and my parents are totally lost not knowing what to do. How can You leave us in this state of uncertainty?  If enlighting  Navaloorar is due to his destiny, what is the reason for leaving me in the lurch? There is a pro verb that  one can perform a wedding even if he has to say a thousand lies! You uttered one truth and stopped my wedding! Is this act appropriate for Emperuman?

 Standing in front of the sannathi she sheds tears .

Theivakkural (Easan)

Mahale! In this birth of yours you are not destined to lead a wedded life! Still since you have kept Navaloor Aarooran in your heart, you will obtain Sivagathi.

Listen all the three !

Don’t despair! As long as this universe remains, the name and fame of Sundaramoorthiyar will remain. Those who think of him will also think highly of all of you. Your fame will remain forever.  If you see any adiyavar, feed him for the remainder of your lives in this earth. You will merge unto Me  in due course.

All of them bow to Easan.

  ******

Thirunavalur …

Sundaramoorthiyar decked up in his bridegroom attire speaks to his parents in his house. Sundaramoorthiyar

Annaye! Thanthaye! I am starting on my Yatra to visit all the temples as ordered by Iraivan. From now on, I will be in the service of Easan only. Please bless me!

Seeing their son dressed in finery bring tears in their eyes.

Sadayanar (crying)

The other day I have said that I would rather prefer and elated if people know me as your father than people recognising you as my son. My wish has come true! Still, I am greatly perturbed to see you as a Thuravi sporting the attire of a bridegroom!

 Isaigyaniyar

When Iraivan has proved him as His slave and took him under His care, our son belongs to Easan alone! It is incorrect on our part to claim him as our son. The attire he is sporting is given to him by Easan Himself! Whether he will take to saintly hood or become a householder depends on what Easan has planned for him. Please accede to his request, bless him and bid him farewell!

His parents bless him and he leaves after paying his respects to them. First he visits the temple at Navalur and sings in praise of Easan, his foster father Narasingamunayar and his home town.

    *****

He reaches Thiruvathigai after visiting the temples at Thiruththuraiyur and Porpuliyur. He stays at Chitramatam at the outskirts of the town not visiting the temple of Veerattaneswarar. 

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

Peruman Thirunavukkarasar has done Angappradakshinam around the temple Praharam.  My mind does not permit me to place my feet on the soil where his sacred body has rolled!  Veerattaneswarare! Please forgive me! I am unable to cast my eyes on Your beautiful image and praise your glory by my songs!

Feeling miserable, he goes to sleep. It is midnight and he is sound asleep. Feeling something is crawling over his head, he wakes up with a start. Feeling the soles of the feet of someone have been resting on his head, he stands up. He sees an aged Anthanar sleeping nearby keeping his feet close to where his head has been. He taps him to wake him up. As the old man does not respond, he shakes him with his hands and the old Anthanar slowly opens his eyes.

Sundaramoorthiyar (annoyed)

Ayya! Periyavare! Why don’t you move a little further and sleep. Your feet are touching my head. Do you know who I am?

Anthanar

Ayya! Who are you? As I am old, I placed my feet on your head by mistake.

Aaroorar looks at him angrily and goes further away and lies down and falls asleep soundly very soon.  His sleep gets disturbed once again and finding the feet of the old Anthanar again resting on his head, he becomes furious.

 Sundaramoorthiyar

Hey! You old haggard! Why did you keep your feet on my head? Why are at your mischief again? Who are you?

The old Anthanar gets up quickly and laughs at Aarooran aloud!

Anthanar (laughingly)

I know who you are! Do you know who I am?

He vanishes from there. Sundaramoorthiyar is shocked.

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

It is none but Easan who has come! Who will keep his feet on other’s head even for fun? I could not realise that Easan has kept His feet as a crown on my head! How foolish I am to abuse Him instead?

He gets highly emotional with tears streaming from his eyes.

A divine voice

Sundara! You have walked all the way up to here.  Since you felt miserable for not visiting me in My Aalayam, I came personally! I have no mind to send you without hearing your songs. To remind you as to who you are, I granted you Thiruvadi Deekshai! Let me hear you sing now. He composes and sings many songs in praise of Easan till day break starting with cursing himself for abusing Him and not recognising Him when He placed His feet on his head!

Sundaramoorthiyar continues his Yatra and a lot of adiyavars follow him wherever he goes. Saivam gets a new lease of life and flourishes wherever he sets his foot. As he reaches Thirumanikkuzhi, he welcomed by the villagers with due respects and taken to the temple of Easan. The Gurukkal explains that Thirumal in His Vamana avataram came here and prayed to Easan before vanquishing Mahabali. He then reaches Thillai and sings many songs in Praise of Easan. A divine voice is heard from the Sannathi asking him to reach Thiruvarur. He reaches Seerkaazhi on his way.  Fearing that setting his feet on the soil where Thirugyanasambandar was born will be a sacrilege, he stops on the outskirts of the town. Easan grants him His Kailaya darisanam!  He sings many songs of Thevaram at Thirukkolakka, Thiruppunkoor, Mayiladuthurai and Thiruppugalur during his Yatra with his retinue of adiyavars. He reaches the outskirts of Thiruvarur.

   ****

During this time…

Thirukkailayam..

Annai and Easan are seated…

Easan

Annaye! Akhilandanayakiye! What are you thinking about?

Annai

They call you ‘Nirgunan’! But I don’t see that you are one!

Easan

What is meant by ‘Nirgunan’, Devi?

Annai

As if You don’t know the meaning! ‘Nirgunan’ means the one who neither loves nor hates anything or anyone.

Easan

Don’t I look like One who neither loves nor hates?

Annai

My Iraiva! You love me. You love your children Ganesan and Murugan. You love all the creatures, your adiyars, Nandi, Naradar, the Devas and all the Ganas. Will not be incorrect to call you a ‘Nirgunan’ when you are showering your love on all these people!

Easan

Why are you enacting this drama knowing very well that I am ‘Nirgunan?’

Annai

Leave aside my drama! Please answer my question!

Easan

Look! Every creature in this entire universe is one and the same for Me! I don’t discriminate that something is superior and something else is inferior.  I am ‘Omkar’ in the form of ‘Om’ and I have created all of these and made them Mine! Therefore I am everything and I am in everything! So I am beyond the concept of love or hate and remain a ‘Nirgunan’.

Annai

For example…

Easan

Take the case of Padmasuran. He is an Asuran and wild. Still he stood on a tapas praying to me. I was bound by his wild devotion to me and promised him to grant any boon he asked for. Rather thinking that he needed nothing more than seeing Iraivan in person when I appeared before him, he asked for a boon that if his palm touches anyone’s head he or she should burn to cinders! Even though it would endanger the entire universe if such boon is granted to him, I as ‘Nirgunan’ granted his wish without any hesitation…    It was I who created an idea in his mind to test the boon on Me and when he ran to put his palm on my head, I ran here and there to tire him out. Taking the avataram of Mohini, I distracted his mind and destroyed him using the very boon I granted to him.  Devi! Have you forgotten this episode? Iraivan gets bound by the love of his devotee. He does not discriminate whether he is mild or wild! 

Annai

Yes! I know very well!  During this coming month of Chitthirai, under the star of Tiruvadirai, a brute is going to be born in the Parasuramakshetram. He is going to do a lot of cruel deeds against You and Your adiyavar.  You, as ‘Nirgunan’ are going to absorb him as a Nayanar and even make him head of our Boothaganas! I am keenly waiting to witness the drama you are going to unfold! We long for your blessings.

Annai bows to Easan.

Nandi (to himself)

What is this confusion? Wasn’t it Thirumal who took the avataram of Mohini to distract Padmasuran? When that is so, how come Easan ….Emperuman said to Annai, ‘Taking the avataram of Mohini, I distracted his mind and destroyed him using the very boon I granted to him. Devi! Have you forgotten this episode’?

Nothing is clear to me.

He stands totally confused where upon Naradar reaches there. Nandi goes to receive him.

Naradar (loudly)

Om Namasivaya….  Om Namasivaya

Nandi (surprised)

Narada Munivare! How is that you are chanting Om Namasivaya today unlike your usual chant of Namo Narayana?

Naradar

There is a saying ‘Hariyum Haranum Onru, Ariyathavar vayil mannu.’  (அரியும் சிவனும் ஒண்ணு அறியாதவன் வாயில் மண்ணு) (Hari and Hara are one and the same! Mud in his mouth the one who is ignorant of this)

Do you know the significance of this saying? 

Nandi (laughing)

I know it very well! Those who don’t know ‘Sarvam Sivamayam’ (Everything is Sivan) will have to eat the earth! Am I right?

Naradar gazes at him without giving an answer for some time making Nandi to wince.

Naradar

Your explanation is incorrect. I will tell you why!   Why they say ‘mud in his mouth and not blind is he who doesn’t know that Hari and Haran are one and the same’?

Nandi (not knowing the answer)

That is what I want to know!

Naradar

I will tell you.  Ariyathavar (he who is ignorant) in this context refers to one who cannot differentiate between good and bad.   Who is incapable to differentiate between good and bad? Only a small child cannot discern! When the baby Kannan picks up a handful of mud and puts in his mouth, his mother Yasodhai, chides him to open His mouth and show what is inside.  Kannabiran   opens his mouth.

What does she see inside? She sees the entire universe, the creator Brahma, the protector Hari and the destroyer Haran. Only then the people realise that Hari and Haran are one and the same. The saying also has been derived out of this. By the way! When did I chant ‘Om Namasivaya’? I always chant ‘Namo Narayana’ only. You hear it as ‘Om Namasivaya’! Doesn’t it prove that both are one and the same?

Nandi

Yes! You explained succinctly! Can anyone defeat you in a verbal duel? Impossible! All right. Today Annai revealed that during this coming month of Chitthirai, under the star of Tiruvadirai, a brute is going to be born in the Parasuramakshetram. She also disclosed that Easan will absorb him as a Nayanar and even make him head of our Boothaganas! Where is Parasuramakshetram? Why it is not referred as a country and why it is called as a Kshetram?

Naradar

Aaha! Is Iraivan going to enact His holy sport? I am also curious to witness the same.

 Now, hear the answer to your question. When Iraivan takes an avataram in this earth, his place of birth is called the ‘Janmabhoomi’ (place of sacred origin). The places where all he lived are known as ‘Punayabhoomi’ (place of piety or holy). Each of these places becomes sacred where devotees come on pilgrimage and are called Kshetram. Parasuramar was born in North. But he stayed in the South. Since he is an avatarapurushar (God Incarnate), the place he stayed became a Kshetram.

Once upon a time, the divine carpenter Mayan fabricated a bow that could not be strung by anyone. Since he forgot to invoke Vinayakar before starting this work, the bow got very minute hairline crack. Upset seeing the defective bow and realising his mistake, he fabricated another similar bow after properly invoking the blessings of Vinayakar. At about the same time, Janakar, the Maharaja of Mithilai, prayed to Easan to grant him a progeny.  As ordained by Easan, the Bhoomadevi gave him her daughter Seethai. She also handed over the Sivadhanush the first one made by Mayan. An oracle from the heavens announced at that time, ‘Whoever strings this bow, only he will marry the daughter of Janakar’. Considering both as the graceful blessings of Easan, Janakar returns home with the child and the Sivadhanush. Ramar accompanying Viswamittirar reaches Mithilai, strings the Sivadhanush and marries Seethai. While He is on his way back to Ayodhya, Parasuramar confronts him. He challenges Ramar, ‘You imbecile Kshatriya! You displayed your valour by breaking an already broken bow!  I have this Vishnudhanush. Come on let me see you lift it and string it. If you are successful I will let you go… Else my axe will chop off your head …’

While the people accompanying him get highly perturbed, Ramar picks up and strings the Vishnudhanush with a smile. Tasting a defeat for the first time in his life, and having his ego punctured, Parasuramar stands with his head lowered.

‘Where to shoot the arrow?’ Ramar asks the crest fallen Parasuramar.   He asks Ramar to aim and shoot against all his thavabalan. Ramar does as requested and calls out, ‘Parasurama!  Look at Me intently! ’ Parasuramar looks at Him to find His own self in front of Him. Realising that both of them are Vishnu’s avataram, he decides to move away to South. He throws his axe to mark out the area where he decides to make his abode. That place is known as Parasuramakshetram as well as Cheravalanadu. He is a strict celibate treating every woman as his own mother. The place where Parasuramar decided to stay has therefore become a ‘Punayabhoomi’, which is a rich hill country.

 Nandi   

Is that the reason why the Nayanar who is going to take birth there will be equally ferocious as Parasuramar?

Naradar (laughing)

Not only that!  He will also be carrying an axe like him!

Both of them disperse from there.

   *******

Cheranadu…

Chengunrur is a very fertile village in that hill country …

There in a palm leaf hut…
A woman is sitting there with tears streaming from her eyes.  Standing next to her is her seven year old son.

Her Son

Ammaye! I understand that father’s death is a great loss and a source of great grief. Will he come back if you remain weeping like this? We have to get on with our lives and you must return to your normal self.

Mother (in sadness)

Viranminda! This is the third day after your father’s death. Are you not sorry to have lost your father? How stone-hearted are you!

Viranmindar

Ammaye!  I am equally distressed by father’s death. At the same time I am suffering from pangs of hunger too! I have discontinued my Gurukulam life. From now on it is my duty to take care of you. I agree we have to be in mourning. But if are in mourning for ever, how we will continue our lives?

Life should go on at any cost!

Mother (weeping)

Even after living in Gurukulam, there is no change in your nature. You have no idea of kinship and affection.  All along I have been thinking that your father is everything for me. Now that he is gone, I have no feeling of thirst or hunger.

Viranmindar

Ammaye! It is impossible to live without food. You remain in your mourning. Let me cook…

Going into the kitchen, he finds only an empty clay pot. Angry at not finding any provision at home, he throws that clay pot and comes and sits outside in the porch. On seeing the thrown and broken clay pot his mother gets up and comes out. Seeing her son famished, she is heartbroken.  She is stopped by Viranmindar from going to her neighbour for borrowing some provisions.

Viranmindar

 Ammaye! I detest going to neighbours for borrowing food. I will go to our farm and see whether I can get anything from there.

Mother (in disgust)

Our field is as dried up as my heart. You will find wild thorny bushes everywhere. Take the axe with you. Unless you clear the thorny bushes you will not be able to even step into our fields.

Holding his axe on his shoulder, Viranmindar starts off to his field.  He is obstructed by some of the villagers on his way.

One of the villagers (threatening)

What is this? Where are you going with an axe on your shoulder? There are ceremonies yet to be conducted for your father. It is not in our custom to go for work when there are final ceremonies pending. You better go back home.

Viranmindar

It is not proper for you to block me quoting what should I do and what I shouldn’t do. There is not a single soul to advise me what I can do. I see only there is host of people to prevent me from doing things.

I am yet to see a person who stands with me to do what I want to do. Customs and traditions are created by us for ourselves.  My mother and I are hungry. Only if I work and earn some money, we will be able to eat. Don’t try to prevent me quoting all these mores.

The village elder

What temerity? We say that you cannot go out before the mourning period is over and you have the audacity to argue with us! You appear to be a brute! Hey! (Hailing some villagers) Block him. Let me see how he goes.

A few villagers try to block his way.

Furious, Viranmindar lifts his axe and prepares to attack the villagers who are blocking his way. Terrified they all run away. Viranmindar looks at them with contempt and proceeds on his way to his field. On reaching there he is shocked to find the condition of his fields.

About five acres in extent…

Full of wild growth…thorny bushes and thorny trees. He makes a pathway by cutting off the undergrowth with his axe and starts his work. He cuts and gathers wood and carries it on his head and returns to the village. Selling the chopped wood and earning some money, he buys provisions and returns home. His mother is found sleeping overcome by hunger.  Not wanting to wake her up, he cooks the food himself and wakes up his mother and offers her food. She observes blood stains all over his body.

Mother (highly perturbed)

What is this? Why are you smeared in blood?

Viranmindar

Ammaye! I had to clear the thorny bushes and cut the trees. I sold them and purchased provisions out of the money earned. I have cooked the food myself. Please eat and satiate your hunger.

She looks at her son who is not showing any sign of distress or pain holding the hot meals for her.

Mother

Easane! I am blessed to have such a dutiful son!  Viranminda! You cannot endure seeing your mother in kind of distress.  One day the people of this entire village will revere you!

She bestows her heartfelt blessings on him.

Viranmindar

Who is this Easan? Please tell me!

His mother shows him the Lingam kept on the shelf. Viranmindar looks at the Lingam. His mother is surprised to see his face becoming radiant as never seen before! 

Mother

We have kept the Lingam in that shelf all these years. How come you have never seen it so far? Have they not taught about these things in Gurukulam?

Viranmindar

 Calling me a brute, you and father neglected me right from my childhood. Nothing was noticed by me because of my rage. In the Gurukulam we were only made to work and did not learn anything. I get excited on seeing that in the shelf.  What is that? Please explain to me!

Mother (excitedly)

It is Sarveswaran in the dorm of Lingam who creates, protects and destroys the entire universe. He is our Iraivan. Still he is a servant of his servants. He runs errands for adiyavars, though neither His feet nor His tuft of hair has ever been seen!

Viranmindar

Iraivan! Does He serve the servers? Does He run errands for adiyavars? From this moment, my mind will always be devoted to Him!

He closes his eyes and prays to Easan.

     *******

Next day…

Viranmindar wakes up early and after having his bath comes and bows to the Lingam kept in the shelf. Sporting hisaxe on his shoulder, he starts for his work.

His mother is overwhelmed by her dutiful son.

Mother (proudly looking at him)

Mahane! Seeing you with the axe on your shoulder, I feel as if I am seeing the very Parasuramar himself!

Viranmindar

Who is that Parasuramar?

Mother

 Parasuramar avataram is one of the ten avatarams of Hari…The place where we are living is his Kshetram. This is the country of Parasuramar. He always carried an axe on his person. Like you, He was also a brute.

 Stung by this remark Viranmindar looks at his mother disheartened.

Mother

Parasuramar was the youngest child of his parents. Once, when her mother committed an inadvertent mistake, his father asked his eldest son to behead her. When his son asked him the reason for such an order, he became furious and turned him to ashes for not heeding his command.  When he asked his next son to do the same, he started crying for killing his mother. He was also burnt to cinders. Like this he burnt to ashes his other two sons. It was finally the turn of Parasuramar, the youngest son. He said to him, ‘Hey! Parasurama! Here is your mother. Chop off her head and bring it to me’. Without thinking for a moment, Parasuramar chopped his mother’s head with his axe and brought her head to him. Pacified by his obedient act, he said, ‘Parasurama! I am pleased by your act. Ask me any boom. I will grant it to you’.

Parasuramar replied, ‘Thandhaye! Please resurrect my dead mother and brothers.’ They all regained their lives. Though Parasuramar was wild by nature, He was full of compassion and kinship also. Likewise, though you are by nature wild, the affection you have for your mother is praiseworthy. Easan will always be with you!

Blessing him thus, she sends him for his work.

In due course, the hard work of Viranmindar in his fields starts giving yield. The land becomes fertile for farming and he starts earning in plenty.  He builds a palatial house. As his wealth keeps increasing, so does his brutish nature.  He will not brook any disagreement and will raise his axe if anyone contradicts him. The villagers deal with him in mortal fear!

Viranmindar turns twenty one. At about that time….

A Sivanadiyar comes to the village.

Perhaps he has been walking for a long time over hills and dales! He is gasping for breath. Apart from that he looks famished. As he is swaying and about to fall, a young girl among the few who are carrying water holds him and lets him lie down slowly. Offering him some water, she refreshes him. The adiyavar coming out of his stupor looks at them.

The young girl who offered him water

Adiyavare! I suppose that you are new to this place. Who are you? Whom are you searching for here?

Sivanadiyar

Penne!  I feel elated by your gentle manners. I am a wanderer.  I keep going from place to place to visit the temples of Siva. I have come to Parasuramakshetram to visit the temples of Easan and pray there. I have been hungry and about to swoon. Can I get some food from anywhere nearby?

Penn

Adiyavare! Here all of us eat only tubers for food. If it is agreeable to you, please come to our house. You can appease your hunger and take rest.

Sivanadiyar

Penne! What is your name?

Penn

Gunavathi is my name.

Sivanadiyar

Aaha! You are having all noble qualities and your name is very apt. I am used to eat food cooked in rice only. The tubers do not suit me. Where can I get cooked rice here?

Gunavathi

There is farmer called Viranmindar in this village. One can get cooked rice only in his house.

The friends of Gunavathi

Alas! Whom are you suggesting? Adiyavare! Listen to us!  Viranmindar, the person suggested by her, is a brute. Under the slightest annoyance, he will brandish his axe. The whole village is scared of him. Eating in his house is like going for a meal at Yaman’s house! Please don’t go there.

Gunavathi

He may be wild and short tempered. But he is a good man by nature. He will not bear any one suffering.   You are very hungry and you will get good food in his home only.  Come with me. I will take you there.

She takes the Sivanadiyar to Viranmindar’s house.

    ******

Viranmindar’s house…

Seeing an adiyavar approaching, his mother rushes to receive him.

Mother

Darisanam of a Sivanadiyar amounts to the darisanam of Easan Himself!

She bends down and prostrates at his feet. She offers him a seat. Informed by Gunavathi that he has come there to appease his hunger, she feels highly elated.

Mother

Adiyavare! How blessed are we? Please wait for a moment. I will prepare and serve you hot food.

She quickly goes to the kitchen and Gunavathi joins her in preparing the food. The food is getting ready.

Meanwhile Viranmindar returns home and is surprised to find the Sivanadiyar sitting in the porch.

Viranmindar

Hey! Elderly man! Who are you? What is this costume?

Sivanadiyar

Young man! I am an adiyavar of Sivan. What I am wearing is not to be called a costume. These are the identifying symbols of Easan! As a servant of Easan I visit various temples of Easan and carryout maintenance works and recite the praise of Easan! We have vowed to keep the thought of Iraivan in our hearts all the time for the welfare and happiness of the humanity. To propagate to the world that this body is transitory, we apply the ash on our forehead, chest and arms. The Rudrakshams, we sport promulgate that ‘Love alone is Sivam’ and He alone is the medicine that will destroy the malady of births and rebirths! Going from place to place, we lecture on noble thoughts and deeds. After visiting a large number of Easan’s temples and still not fulfilled of my thirst to see more, I have come to Parasuramakshetram.  The mother who begot you will be hailed by this world. That virtuous girl Gunavathi, who will betroth you, will remain with you as long as this world remains. 

Viranmindar

Adiyavare! You have blessed me to my heart’s content! I am little rough by nature. The people of this village are a bit scared of me taking me to be a brute. No one iswillingto give his daughter to wed me. I have no hope of getting married in this birth! When the circumstances are such, how have you proclaimed that the girl who has come here will be my wife?

He looks at Gunavathi, a little embarrassed.

Mother

Viranminda! What an adiyavar utters   never fails! This virtuous girl, who volunteered to help me without my asking will be your wife.

Viranmindar looks at Gunavathi again who expresses her acceptance through a coy smile!

Viranmindar calls her to come closer and both of them fall at the feet of the Adiyavar in reverence. The Adiyavar is then served food.  After resting for some time, the adiyavar is seen off by them very warmly. After leaving the house of Viranmindar with a gracious smile, the Adiyavar vanishes into thin air!

    *****

Thirukkailayam….

Annai

Easane! It appears that you scouted for a girl for Viranmindar, conducted their wedding and returned here after partaking a sumptuous wedding feast!

Easan

The time has come to reveal to Viranmindar as to who he is! I have gone there in the garb of an adiyar to ensure that Gunavathi, who have been praying to us to get him as her husband, has her wish fulfilled.    The joy I get when I serve my adiyavar is immeasurable! 

Annai

I hope you equally enjoyed the food that was served to you. You appear as happy as having taken Amudham!

Easan

Whatever is served with love is nothing but Amudham! That too if it is served by an adiyar of mine, my joy knows no bounds! What a fabulous treat! I am ecstatic!     

Annai

Hold on! Hold on!... Don’t be so delighted!  The one who served you food happily will be the one who is going to hound you without relent!

Easan (laughing)

Not only me! He is going to chase our Sundarar as well!

Both of Them laugh aloud!

********

Viranmindar marries Gunavathi and becomes a householder. Her mother is satisfied that he has a wonderful companion for life. It becomes the norm for any adiyar coming to Chengunrur to be a guest of Viranmindar and enjoy the hospitality extended to them. Viranmindar feels extremely happy to be of service to adiyavars. 

Viranmindar (to himself)

How much of peace one gets in showing hospitality! Alas! How have I missed such bliss all these years!

Pure thoughts like this make him lead a virtuous life.

One day….

Mother

Viranminda! I am not feeling well.

She falls down. Viranmindar rushes and puts her head on his lap.

While she looks up at him with a broad grin, her life ends.

The necessary ceremonies take place.

Viranmindar feels as if he is left alone. He remembers how rudely he behaved with his mother after his father’s death. He keeps recollecting the memories of his mother and gets perturbed. He calls his wife.

Viranmindar

Gunavathi! My mother could have lived for some more time. I am troubled by her absence. This house and the places around keep reminding me of her and increase my agony. Should one live for his own sake?  I have been thinking that the purpose of my birth is only to take care of my mother. Now that she is gone, I am obliged to take care of you. Then we will have children. Am I born only to take care of kith and kin? Not likely.  Like the Sivanadiyar who asked me to marry you, Iwill also tour the places and be of service to the sivalayams and the adiyavars there. This will be my future duty.

Gunavathi (in tears)

Wherever you go, I will follow you and be of service to adiyars by cooking food for them. Please take me along with you. How can I ever live alone?

Overcome by her virtuous outpouring Viranmindar hugs her.

Both of them leave Parasuramakshetram and tour various places. They visit many temples of Easan on their tour.

In one such town….

He leaves Gunavathi in a choultry and goes out looking for a Sivalayam. He sees a pond on the way and stops and stands on it bank. Hailed by an elderly person lying on the bank, he goes near him only to find that he is on the verge of dying. He gets highly distressed seeing his condition.

Easan and Annai are observing both of them from Thirukkailayam…..

Easan

Annaye! Look at my servitor here! You will appreciate his compassionate nature! Though he is a brute, his empathy for others is praiseworthy. This very nature of him makes Me a servant of that servant! Look what is going to unfold!

Annai looks there.

At the same time….

Viranmindar (distressed)

Periyavare! … Periyavare! What has happened? You are on the verge of dying. What can I do for you?

Periyavar

Mahane! My life is coming to an end. Will you be able to fulfill my last wish? 

Viranmindar (holding the hands of the elderly person)

Tell me. I will carry it out.

Periyavar (pleading)

Let me get Sivadeekshai, Ayya!

Viranmindar

I have no clue as to what is Sivadheekshai! What will I do? Iraiva! Easane! I believe You come running when called out by adiyavar.

Viranmindar (in a commanding tone)

Now, I, Viranmindan, am calling You. You reach here immediately to give Sivadheekshai to this old man who is about to die.

Annai Parvati is surprised at Viranmindar’s courage of conviction!

Easan runs there on hearing the orders of his servitor!

Seeing a Sivayogi emerging from the pond, Viranmindar runs and grabs him by his arm and bring him near the dying man.

Viranmindar (in a commanding tone)

Sivayogiyare! This old man, who is on the verge of dying, is asking for Sivadheekshai. You must grant him the Deekshai at once.

Sivayogi

What baloney is this? Some unknown person is about to die and I am supposed to administer Sivadeekshai. I will not perform these things.

Viranmindar gets furious on hearing this.

Viranmindar (raising his axe in anger)

Sivayogiyare! What is the use of your life if you cannot come to the help of a dying man?

Sivayogi (acting as if scared)

 You!  Youngster! Why do you lift your axe and get angry for nothing. You do not know what the custom demands?

Viranmindar (shouting)

What stupid custom you are talking about? What is use of that custom if it does not help a dying man?

Sivayogi

The one who is getting Deekshai has to take bath and wearing wet clothes must prostrate fully at the feet of the administrator. He has to perform padhapooja and request the guru to accept him as Sishya and administer Deekshai. Is this old man capable of doing all these?

Hearing this reply Viranmindar calms down.

Viranmindar

Sivayogiyare! Pardon my insolence! If I carry out the padhapooja on his behalf, will you accept it and administer the Deekshai?

Sivayogi

In an emergency, this is acceptable. Go ahead and carryout what you said.

Viranmindar immediately takes a dip in the pond and picking up a pot from there, he fills it with water and does padhapooja of Sivayogi with it. Viranmindar then prostrates Easan and pleads for administering Deekshai to the old man as per accepted norms. Easan is highly pleased and chants the Tarakamantram in the old man’s ears. Having blessed for receiving the Deekshai from Easan Himself, the old man attains Mukti. Satisfied by the completion of his task, Viranmindar falls on the feet of Sivayogi in reverence. As he gets up he is shocked to find the sivayogi vanishing into the clouds.

Viranmindar (to himself praying to Easan)

All these are nothing but acts of Easan! From now on my duty will be only to serve Sivanadiyars.

He picks up the body of the dead man and proceeds to the cremation ground.

     *******

Having darisanam of Lord Viswanathar everyday without fail and undertaking any kind of work for the temple, he stays there for three years. As ordained by Easan, one day he decides to go to Kamalalayam, hearing about the glory of Thiruvarur Thyagesan. He and his wife reach there and Viranmindar is delighted at the splendor of the town.  Having found a house for stay, he settles down there with his wife.

Next day, before sunrise, he goes to the temple pond for his bath. When he takes a dip in the pond, he feels as if someone is embracing him. Coming out of water he observes that it is the same sivayogi he has met before. Wanting to pay his respects by prostrating to him, he bows down. As he looks up, he is surprised to find him missing. Looking further, he sees that the Sivanadiyar is walking at a distance. He runs after him and soon both of them are entering the Sannathi of Easan. Having run behind the sivayogi, Viranmindar stops to catch his breath. Sivayogi looks back at Viranmindar. Before Viranmindar opens his mouth to speak to him, the Sivayogi enters the sanctum sanctorum and merges with the lingam!

Viranmindar (highly ecstatic with tears in his eyes)

Is this my Easan, who argued with me as a sivayogi and made me do padhapooja and embraced me in the holy pond of the temple?

He bows and stands before Easan in the Sannathi. Coming out he sees a large number of Sivanadiyars, sporting Thiruneeru and Rudrakshams reciting Rudram in a mantapam. In between he hears the Panchakshara mantram also being recited.  Everything appears to him as Sivam! Overcome with devotion he goes and appeals to them.

Viranmindar (folding his hands in supplication)

Adiyavarhale! Please permit me to be your slave and guard so that the purpose of my birth gets redeemed!

 Seeing Viranmindar with his eyes filled in tears of devotion and standing with his axe on his shoulder, the adiyavars grant him permission.

     *******

Twelve years roll by…

Except for serving the adiyavar and doing work for the temple, Viranmindar lives without attachments to anything. He makes it a habit to pay his reverence to adiyavars first and then only goes for the darisanam of Easan. As his life is going like this, one day….

The news that Sundaramoorthy Nayanar is expected to arrive at the Thyagesan Sannathi, turns the entire temple brimming with activities. There are welcome arches and buntings made of mango leaves. Freshly cut plantain trees line up the entrances. The Brahmins conduct Yagam and reverently await his arrival for giving him a traditional and honourable welcome. The adiyars are singing Easan’s praise in the mantapam. Viranmindar, sporting his axe on his shoulder is standing behind the Vedic chanting Brahmins at the entrance to the temple to have the darisanam of the expected adiyavar.  Crowds of   womenfolk holding plates of flowers are seen everywhere. All of them are keenly waiting for having a glimpse of Sundarar.    Dhundhubhi and other auspicious music instruments make merry music.  Suddenly shouts of his arrival emanate everywhere. The Brahmins welcome him with due respects chanting Vedic mantras. The surging womenfolk shower flowers on his path and body and compete with one another to have glimpse of his face. There is tremendous excitement! Witnessing all these, Viranmindar however is aghast.

Viranmindar (to himself, getting annoyed)

 Contrary to what I have been hoping to see a devout Sivanadiyar sporting thiruneeru and Rudrakshams, he looks as if he has just come from his wedding mantapam! He looks up at Sundaramoorthiyar! Wearing silken clothes, sporting an ornamental headgear, wearing a garland from head to toe, having a kasturi tilakam on his forehead, smearing his body with chandanam and other aromatic items he seems to be enjoying the company of the womenfolk who walk along with him! Looking handsome, how can he pass off as a Sivanadiyar? How come everyone is praising him as an adiyavar?

He follows the crowd in half a mind. They reach the mantapam where adiyars stay. All the adiyars get up and bow to Sundarar. While Viranmindar is looking at all these, Sundarar enters the Sannathi without caring to acknowledge the salutations of the adiyars.

Viranmindar cannot bear the insult to the adiyar any longer.

Viranmindar (shouting furiously)

Hey! You imposter! Halt now.

He raises his axe and rushes towards Sundarar.

Hearing his shout, there is pin drop silence. Sundarar is taken a back to see Viranmindar running towards him with his axe raised.

Viranmindar

 How can you, wearing silken clothes, sporting aromatic scents like a bridegroom and attracting the women folk with enticing eyes, be a devotee of Sivan? I cannot understand. Leave aside this…

They say that darisanam of Sivanadiyar is as blissful as the darisanam of Sivan Himself! You have forgotten this saying.   You rogue!  You proudly walked off without greeting the adiyars in reply instead enjoyed the beauty of the accompanying women. I will not allow you to live any further  as you have not shown due regards to adiyavars.

With his axe lifted above, he runs towards Sundarar. Scared of Viranmindar who is coming to attack him, Sundarar runs inside the sanctum sanctorum and locks himself inside.

Viranmindar (highly agitated)

It is a great sacrilege to lock yourself inside the Sannathi! Not only you hide like a coward, but also you are preventing others from having Easan’s darisanam. It is against the tenets of adiyavars!  I will not leave this place without killing you.

He starts banging the doors loudly. Seeing his anger the gathered people run away from there.  

The banging of the doors is heard loudly inside.  Inside the Sannathi, Sundarar hugs the Siva lingam in great fear. From the closed sanctum sanctorum Easan’s voice is heard.

 The Voice

‘I am … Arooran… Sundaran is now in my refuge. Your anger is unjustified. ’

Viranmindar is not pacified even after hearing Easan’s voice.

Viranmindar

Your Sundaran needs to be punished for not repaying the respects to adiyavars. You! Arooran!  For having given refuge to a culprit and for failing to uphold the honour of adiyars, You also need to be punished. From now on it will be my duty to safeguard the honour of adiyavars.

He pushes the doors with all his might and the doors open. At the same time Easan, grabbing the hand of Sundarar runs out making an exit on the southern side.  

Viranmindar (threatening)

If anyone comes and bows to Aarooran, who has belittled the adiyavars, I will chop him off.

Hearing his threat, people run out of the temple fearing for their lives. 

Viranmindar

Aroora! From now on I will not step inside Thiruvarur.

He comes out of the temple after taking the vow and immediately vacates his house and leaves Thiruvarur with his wife. In the next town, he builds a hut and starts serving the adiyavar who come there . If he sees any Sivanadiyar, immediately he prostrates and brings him to his hut and performs padhapooja. After feeding him and giving him items he needs as gifts, he sends off the fully pleased Sivanadiyar. His hospitality to Sivanadiyars spreads far and wide and Sivanadiyars start coming to his hut almost every day. Viranmindar carries out padhapooja to all of them one by one.

 While life is going on like this….

One day while he is doing padhapooja to an adiyavar he asks casually from where he is coming from.

Adiyavar (proudly)

I have been to Thiruvarur and coming here after having darisanam at Kamalalayam.

Viranmindar stops the padhapooja there itself and gets up with his eyes glowing red in anger. Before anyone can imagine, he picks up his axe and severs the legs of the adiyavar. Adiyavar falls and writhes in great agony.  The other adiyavars who are around are in shock.

Viranmindar

I will punish anyone who comes from Thiruvarur, the abode of Aarooran who has failed to protect the dignity of adiyavars with my axe like this.

Hearing this all the others run away from there. Seeing all these Gunavathi is very much distressed. Knowing the adamant nature of her husband she keeps quiet. But from that day, she makes it a point to forewarn any adiyavar coming to their cottage not to tell her husband that he is coming from Thiruvarur.

                        *******

Thirukkailayam…

Annai and Easan are seated…

Annai

Iraiva! Is it a must that you go?

There is a lot of apprehension in her tone.

Easan

The time has come to absorb My Viranmindar unto Us! Isn’t it necessary for the whole world to know his glory? I will have to go.

Annai

Though I am aware that he will merge unto You ultimately, I cannot help foreseeing the troubles you will be undergoing!

Easan

Forget about Me! I have to save Sundarar also from him. How long he can go into hiding fearing Viranmindar?

Annai (with tears welling up in Her eyes)

Who can know the grand plans of Easan? Whatever happens is as per His will! Please comeback safely! He is a brute and so please take care!

Easan

We are everything! We run this entire universe. Though You are well aware of this, you get perturbed and display wifely concern for Your husband! Isn’t that the reason that I have given half of Mine to You!

He hugs Annai to clear Her anxiety as a typical husband would do!

    *******

Thiruvarur…

Kamalalayam….

Easan comes out from the southern exit hugging Sundaramoorthiyar.

Easan

Sundara! I am going to meet Viranmindar. I can control him only for a short while. Afterwards, it is between you and him.

Sundaramoorthiyar (in anxiety)

Why this imposition on me not to show my face to the outside world? Now, You, my Iraivan, are also washing off your hands and leaving me! I am get scared when I think of his axe!

 Easan

 Annai also said the same thing.

Sundaramoorthiyar (still more scared)

Did Annai also say the same thing? Though everything happens as ordained by Easan, I will need my feet  to walk around!

He looks down to see his feet to the merry laughter of Easan!

Sundaramoorthiyar

My throat has gone dry due to fear. … Words fail me.. You have ordered me to sing as well! What can I compose in this state?

Easan

Is there any need for me to teach you compose and sing in Tamizh?

Sundaramoorthiyar

There is no hold up to sing Your praise in front of You! But I will be singing in front of that brute. About whom should I sing?

Easan

You compose your songs on My adiyavars.

Sundaramoorthiyar (worried)

I am not aware of any one.

Easan elaborates the history of adiyars.

Sundaramoorthiyar (excited)

When you merged me unto You in Vennainallur, you prompted me with the word ‘Piththan’ and I composed and sang the song starting ‘Piththa Piraisoodi. ’ But today… I am not confident and do not know as to how to start to glorify the adiyavars. Only You can help me again.

Easan

You start with the words ‘Thillai vaazh Anthanar’.  Thus Easan gives the first words for the ‘Thiruthondarthogai’ which will be composed in due course!

Sundaramoorthiyar

Now what?

Easan

What now? You have to get up and go! 

Easan vanishes into sky laughing. Sundaramoorthiyar walks off praying to Easan.

     ********

Viranmindar’s cottage…

Easan stands outside in the garb of a Sivanadiyar.

Gunavathi prostrates at his feet and gets up on seeing him.

Easan

Virtuous woman! I travel around this country.  Knowing about the fame of your husband, I have come here. I intend taking a little rest before I proceed further. Where is your husband?

 Gunavathi (bowing to Easan)

Ayyane!   My mind is in bliss on seeing you.  There is a brilliant halo flooding at the place where you stand. You cannot be an ordinary human. Please tellme. Who are you? Where are you coming from?

Easan

They call me as Thyagesan. I hail from Thiruvarur.  I stay at Kamalalayam!

Gunavathi (agitated)

Iraiva! What a predicament? Adiyavare! Please leave this place before my husband arrives.

Easan

Penne! The whole country is praising the hospitality you and your husband bestow on the sivanadiyars. I have also heard that the food you serve here is delicious and unique .Please do not drive me away.

Gunavathi (pleading)

Ayya! Would I ever drive away a Sivanadiyar? You have uttered very harsh words. You do not understand my predicament and I am unable to explain it as well. Please remember only one thing.

If my husband asks you from where you are coming, give the name of any other town. Don’t ever mention the name Thiruvarur.

Easan (in a firm tone)

Do I have to tell a lie for the sake of food? It does not befit the garb I am wearing.  I am not leaving this place without having food.

Gunavathi

Adiyavare! You do not know the frightful consequences.  What is of importance to you? The food or your legs!

Easan

Annaye! It is not my practice to tell lies.  Let whatever is to happen, happen! Everything is ordained by Easan.

He starts chanting panchaksharam in a loud voice without break.

Hearing his loud voice, Viranmindar comes outside and on seeing the adiyavar requests for conduct of padhapooja to him. Gunavathi brings a large plate from inside for the pooja, places it in front of adiyavar. Adiyavar stands on the plate. Viranmindar does the padhapooja once again to Easan and stands bowing to Him.

Viranmindar

 I am enchanted by the darisanam of adiyavar. May I know your past?

Gunavathi is in tumult as to what adiyavar is going to reply.

Easan (in a proud tone)

Thiruvarur is my town. My house is called Kamalalayam. I am known as Thyagesan.

Viranmindar (getting up furiously)

What did you say?

He looks around for his axe and is surprised in not finding there. He does not know that Gunavathi has hidden it to save the adiyavar from getting hurt. He stars searching for the axe here and there in his house. Taking this opportunity, Easan escapes and takes to His heels. In the meanwhile, Viranmindar finds his axe and starts chasing Easan with the axe in his hand. 

The three consorts of Brahma, Vishnu and Easan, Brahma, Vishnu, Naradar and all the Devas, the ganas and Gandharvas watch Viranmindar chasing Easan who appears to be running for His dear life!

Both of them reach the boundary of Thiruvarur.  Easan crosses the boundary without stopping. Viranmindar, having taken a vow that he would not step inside Thiruvarur, stops there. He throws the axe at the escaping Easan. The axe after touching Easan returns at the same speed to his hand.  Sivanadiyar also vanishes in front of his eyes. Confused by these events,  he starts to walk back home. As he is nearing his hut, he hears a melodious song. The composition and the tune of the song captivate his mind. Trying to find out who is singing he quickens his pace and he finds a large crowd in front of his hut listening to the singing totally absorbed and in raptures. Joining the crowd and he stands as one among them. 

Sundaramoorthiyar

 Is it feasible for anyone to narrate glory of adiyavars fully? Easane! I will accept happily even if You give me innumerable births so long it for serving the adiyavars.

Hearing the pious rendering of the song, Viranmindar’s eyes well up. Trying to see who is singing by parting the people ahead, he finds Sundaramoorthiyar decked up as a bridegroom.

Viranmindar (to himself)

Have I misjudged this virtuous man who is singing in praise of adiyavars?

Sundaramoorthiyar (as prompted by Easan sings)

‘Thillai vaazh Anthanar tham adiyorkum adiyen

Thiruneelkandakuyavanarkum adiyean’

‘தில்லைவாழ் அந்தணர் தம் அடியார்க்கும் அடியேன்

  திருநீலகண்டகுயவனார்க்கும்  அடியேன்’           

(I am a servitor of the servants of the andhanars of Thillai;equally I am servitor of the potter Thiruneelakantar)

He sings Thiruthondarthogai with great compassion. Viranmindar again looks at Sundarar while he is singing. His heart melts hearing the songs of Sundaranar. The scene of Easan merging Sundaranar unto Him unfolds before him.

Viranmindar

Have I harassed an adiyavar of Easan all along?

Feeling sorry for his fault he runs and catches hold of the feet of Sundarar.

Viranmindar

I am a sinner… a brute…  an idiot not knowing your greatness… Please forgive me…

He cries profusely wetting his feet with his tears.

Sundaramoorthiyar

Viranmindare! You have demonstrated to the whole universe that the glory of an adiyavar is supreme by chasing not only me for not honouring the adiyavar but also even Easan for coming to my rescue! Look there.  All the Devas and Devis have assembled to extol your virtues after witnessing your deeds.

He directs him to look up at the sky.

At the time, there is a sound of Dhundhubhi. To the accompaniment of Veda mantras, Easan appears along with Annai in His Nandi vahanam. The heavens open up with a shower of flowers.

Easan

Viranmindare! I am amazed by your devotion towards My adiyavars!  Your unrelenting stance that devotion to adiyavar is even superior to devotion to Easan has moved Me! There is none who can equal you! Your fame will remain as long as this universe exists. Whosoever worships Me will worship you as well. Those whose feet were severed by you will regain them. Along with your virtuous wife you will merge unto Us!

Viranminda Nayanare! My cherished friend! You will head my entire attendant Ganas.

A brilliant light arises and Viranmindar along with his wife merges in that Jyothi. The people raise their   folded hands above their heads in great reverence. Sundaranar bows to Easan and sings praising the compassion of Easan. His singing mesmerises everyone in heavens and every creature on the earth. Perumanar walks towards Thiruvarur with his hands folded in great reverence.

   ******

 In Thiruvarur….

People are going about with their work along the main street when they hear a voice from above calling their attention.  As they are looking from where the call has come from it continues.

The heavenly voice (ordering)  

Hey! The people of Thiruvarur! It is I who called you!      Sundaran is coming to this town out of love for Me! You shall accord him  proper welcome when he reaches here!

One of the Adiyavars

It is the grace of our Iraivan that Aaroorar will be our chief! All of you people gather to welcome him. This is the directive of Easan Himself! 

At that moment another adiyavar reaches there gasping for breath.

Another Adiyavar (excited)

From the periphery of our town, I have reached here running in great haste!  Sundaramoorthiyar, by composing and singing “Thiruththondar Thogai” reversed the hostility of Viranmindar towards him to one of love!  Iraivan   reached there with Annai and bestowed ‘Sivagathi’ on Viranmindar and his wife in the presence of Sundaranar.  Perumanar is coming towards our town in all his glory!   It is our good fortune and due to our good deeds of our past lives that Iraivan  Himself gave us this order to  give a fitting welcome to the Perumanar! 

The town of Thiruvarur immediately sports a festive look… The womenfolk start cleaning the roads and draw colourful kolams all along the route. The men folk get busy erecting arches and tying buntings. Even the children are bringing baskets and baskets of flowers. Chanting Veda mantras, the Veda pundits start walking  towards  the entrance of the town to receive  Perumanar with ‘Purnakumbams’ accompanied by musicians playing beautiful tunes.

In a short while, hearing the voice of Easan, Sundaramoorthiyar reaches the town. He is given tumultuous welcome by blasting firecrackers and showering flower petals on his path. He is received with   ‘Purnakumbams’ by the Veda pundits with great reverence and lead along on the path scented by rosewater  to the repeated chanting of ‘Om Namasivaya’ by the on lookers. The exemplary welcome accorded to a mortal on the orders of Iraivan Himself will remain the talk of the town for eons to come!    Overcome with emotion   for the grace of Iraivan has bestowed, Sundaranar bows to all the people and start singing in praise of Iraivan as he walks along. On seeing the Gopuram of the temple, he prostrates and on getting up raises his hands above his head in reverence. He reaches the sannathi and sings the glory of Iraivan through many compositions. 

At that time…

A voice is heard from the sannathi…

Voice

Sundara! Earlier, on your wedding day, I stopped it made you my slave!   Sporting wedding finery by you ensured recognition of Viranmindar by everyone! You will wear this fine dress for ever in future! I will grant you wedded life here which I denied it earlier! You will study and understand the ways of the world and realise which is supreme in due course of time! From now on you are My friend!

Sundaramoorthiyar (Overcome with emotion for the grace of Easan)

Disguised as an old Brahmin,   the great benefactor that You are, you enslaved me! You appeared here, at Thiruvarur, for the sake of this insignificant creature that is me! I am your slave forever and ever!

As Easan Himself hailed Sundarar as ‘My friend’, the entire congregation in the temple goes euphoric chanting aloud “Om Namasivaya” repeatedly. Sundaramoorthiyar composes many songs in praise of Easan and sings them. 

   ******

In the temple, Sundaramoorthiyar is singing many songs in praise of Easan who has arisen the form of  a (termite mound) Putru. At the very moment Sundarar is meditating on Easan in His Sannathi with his eyes closed, Paravai Nachchiyar, in her palace, is completing a garland of flowers for Easan. Six of her female friends (female friend -Thozhi) reach there to accompany her to the temple.

Thozhi 1

Nachchiyare! What is the matter?  You used to be always ready even before we reach here. But today you are still sitting and completing the garland!

Paravayar

Today there was a profuse blooming of flowers. So I was making a rather bigger garland and hence the delay. 

Her friends look at the huge garland made by Paravayar in great awe.

Thozhi 2

Very nice! You always prefer to carry the garland yourself. But today the garland is so huge as to require six people to carry it!

Paravayar (laughing aloud)

Well, there are six of you already for that!

Lead by Paravayar carrying a basket full of flowers, her friends walk towards the temple carrying the garland.

Thozhi 1

Nachchiyare! Something strange happened today!    It appears that Iraivan ordered all the people of the town to give a grand welcome to an adiyavar and to bring him to the temple… Accordingly the town’s people organised a great reception to that adiyavar and guided him to the temple.  The whole temple is now therefore filled up with people to the brim. How are we going to carry this huge garland through the bulging crowd there?

Paravayar

They say serving an adiyavar is superior to even serving Easan! We can imagine the magnificence of that adiyavar when Easan Himself commands the people to give him a befitting reception and bring him to the temple! Even to see such a great man is a blessing! Come! Let us go there fast.

She walks ahead briskly followed by her friends.

Seeing her carrying a basket of flowers followed by her friends carrying a huge garland, a large group of a adiyars follow them.  

All of them reach the Sannathi of Easan.  Disturbed by the commotion, Sundaramoorthiyar, who is deeply meditating on Easan, opens his eyes. Seeing the beautiful Paravai Nachchiyar carrying the flower basket in front of him….

Sundaramoorthiyar (thinking)

Is she the beautiful flower of the divine Karpagavriksham? 

Has she been created by Manmadhan, the God of Love, for his sport?

Is this beauty   the result of immense good deeds?

Isn’t her beautiful figure a great wonder?

Isn’t it by the grace of Easan that I am able to feast my eyes on her? 

 Lost in her beauty he keeps looking at her without battling his eye lids even.

Watching the discomfiture of ‘His friend’ in His own Sannathi, Easan is enjoying the scene!

Gurukkal…… 

Receives the heavy garland presented by Nachchiyar, carries it with great effort and decorates Easan with that. He then conducts the deeparadhanai to the accompaniment of a beautiful song from Paravai Nachchiyar. All those assembled in the sannathi are captivated by her beautiful song. The Gurukkal gives thiruneeru to everyone.

Thozhi 1 (whispering to Nachchiyar)

 Nachchiyare! Look at the one who is gaping at you without a let.  He is the one who is dear to Easan!  Being so handsome, he is aptly named as Sundaramoorthiyar!

On hearing the name of Sundarar, Paravai Nachchiyar opens her eyes instantly and glances at Sundaramoorthiyar standing in front of her.

Paravayar (thinking)

What a great demeanor!   Sporting a crown and wearing necklaces of priceless gems! The long flower garlands reaching up to his feet look as if they are elated by adorning this handsome man!  Wearing a green silken garment around his waist is he   Lord Murugan   personified?  Or is he with such radiant eyes, the very Lord Manmadhan? Is he the true servitor of   Sadayappar? His sporting of thiruneeru proclaims that he is an adiyar of Easan! Is not the fondness exhibited by his eyes, reminds me of relationship of eons?   Let him become my consort!   Let this wish of mine be fulfilled by You, Easane!

She comes out of the sannathi along with her friends. Meanwhile, the Gurukkal approaches Sundaramoorthiyar, as if he has discerned the questions troubling his mind.

Gurukkal

The young lass who gave the garland for Easan is none other than Paravai Nachchiyar, the daughter of Rudra Kanikayar! She is unflinching in her devotion and love of Easan and is endowed with extremely virtuous qualities.

Sundaramoorthiyar (looking at Easan)

I surrender to you! You said to me, “I deprived you of your married life earlier and I am going to grant it to you here!”  Is this young damsel, the one you have chosen for me?

He comes out of the Sannathi.. Sundaramoorthiyar starts walking followed by a large crowd of adiyavars waiting outside to have a glimpse of him. He starts to look around to see the young girl who captivated his mind a short while ago!

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

I have not known anything other than the sacred feet of Easan.  But today she has intoxicated me. She is a gift of Easan and I wonder which way she has gone!

The crowd of adiyavars leads him in a huge procession around all the streets to the matam much to his discomfort while his thoughts are hovering around the girl he has seen in the sannathi.

    *******

Unable to take her mind off the handsome man she has seen in the temple, Paravai Nachchiyar calls her friends for company after she reaches her palace.

Paravayar (to one of her friends)

Hey!   Did you say that the man we saw in the temple is Sundaramoorthiyar?  

Thozhi 1 (with a mild laugh)

Yes… Not only that! I also mentioned that he is an adiyavar of Easan!

Paravayar (feigning innocence)

What do you mean by ‘Adiyavar’?

Thozhi 2

Adiyavar means that he is a servitor to Easan.

Paravayar

Does that mean that he will never be able to marry?

Thozhi 3

Who said so? Does he look like an adiyavar? Wasn’t he looking like a fully decked up bridegroom?

 Paravayar

Then how come she said that he is an adiyavar?

Thozhi 2

Didn’t you see him sporting thiruneeru on his forehead?

Paravayar

Yes!  I did notice that.

Thozhi 2

So, he is an adiyavar for all intent and purpose!

Thozhi 3

Not only that… They say that he is the best among the men!

Paravayar

How do you say that?

Thozhi 3

His name is Nambi Aarooran! Namperuman Easan Himself appeared before him and embraced him hailing him as His friend ‘Nambi’! The word ‘Nambi’ means ‘the best among men’!

Thozhi 4 (teasingly)

How come you are all talking only about that “Aarooran” all the time? What are you all up to and what is the agenda?

Thozhi 5

Don’t you understand?  From now on, our queen will be restless and without sleep! Even the soft bed will be pricking!  She will see only the face of that handsome man everywhere!

All of her friends laugh in mock merriment!

Paravayar

Not only that! I will confront him  saying, “I am burnt even by the cool rays of the moon!  The sandal paste that you sprinkled scorches my skin! Even the cool southerly breeze  turns out as a ‘heat wave’ of summer months!”

Her friends are aghast hearing this.

Thozhi 1

Paravayare!  We are amazed hearing you speak like this!

Paravayar (despondently)

Will the man who is blessed by Easan not listen to my pining? My mind restless and my body is becoming weak by these thoughts…  Are you telling these things only to add to my misery?

Thozhi 1

 Paravayare! Your present state of mind is something new to all of us! A girl is supposed to keep her feelings subdued! How can you forget and forgo the four basic traits of a woman namely Achcham, Naanam, Madam and Payirpu? 

Achcham (Fear / Timidity): It does not mean the sense of emotion when one feels during fear rather it means being alert taking into consideration the fear of strangers, unrelated men, offending others and others.

Naanam (Coyness / Shyness): Coyness in intimate settings, shyness which is the shyness which women posses.

Madam (Innocence): Innocence, as few say does not mean stupidity, but completely believing the man who marries her. 

Payirpu (Aversion): Aversion towards other men. 

You must pray to our Easan, Thyagesan to show the way to attain what you seek. Merely berating your woes will take you nowhere! Paravayare! Seek the blessings of Easan first! We have been here quite long!  It is time we take leave of you….

After all of them leave…

Paravayar (to herself)

Sadayappare!   Should I also endure the agony like your adiyavar does after casting his eyes on me?

Praying to Easan to unburden her misery, she goes to bed.

  ******

At about the same time…

In the matam…

 Tossing in his bed and unable to get sleep, Sundaramoorthiyar is restive looking at the sky and wondering about the beautiful girl he saw in the temple..

Easan (realising the state of mind of both of them)

Any further delay will result in undue misery to both of them ….

He reaches the matam and hails as “Adiyavrahale.”  All the adiyavars who are fast asleep wake up. Finding no one there they become perplexed.  A divine voice is heard.

The divine voice 

Adiyavarhale! There… my friend Sundaramoorthiyar has run into Paravai Nachchiyar whom he will betroth as destined … Both of them adore me dearly. You make all arrangements for their wedding to be solemnised in My sannathi tomorrow.

The adiyavars hurry up to inform every one the orders they have received from Easan. In the meanwhile

Easan appears in Sundaramoorthiyar’s dream.

Easan 

Thozhare! I have offered to you the young lass Paravai! I have informed the adiyavars of the same.

Easan disappears from his dream and appears in Paravayar’s dream.

Easan

Paravai Nachchiyare! I have given you Aarooran as per your wish! Both of you will be married soon.

Both Sundaramoorthiyar and Paravai Nachchiyar are happy to lose their sleep on hearing their wedding news from Easan!

     ******

The next morning…

The adiyavars assemble in large numbers and conduct the marriage of Sundaramoorthiyar and Paravai Nachchiyar in the sannathi of Easan with great elan!

   *****

 Thiruvarur…

 Sundaramoorthiyar and Paravai Nachchiyar are spending their time enjoying their married bliss without a thought of the passing days. Thyagesar is miserable not seeing His friend for long. One morning, after his bath, Sundaramoorthiyar climbs up to the top most balcony of Nachchiyar’s mansion. On seeing the gopuram of Easan’s temple, he raises his arms above his head in great reverence.

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

I have totally forgotten my Iraivan all these days.

Feeling greatly repentant, he rushes down.  Smearing Thiruneeru on his forehead, wearing his Makutam (headgear) as before, sporting all his necklaces and wearing silk clothes in his Manakkolam as ordained by Easan he steps on to the street.    Seeing him walking down the street, the adiyavars raise their arms above their heads with their palms joined in great reverence.  As the news that Perumanar is  walking towards the temple, all the adiyavars who have been waiting to have his darisanam all these days  gather in the thousand pillared mantapam of the temple. As Perumanar reaches the mantapam all the Adiyars gathered there welcome him chanting “Sambo Mahadeva”.   Acknowledging their unbound love for him, Perumanar is wondering when he will have the chance to serve them. He reaches the sannathi. Easan who has been waiting for his friend eagerly appears.  

Sundaramoorthiyar (on seeing Easan)

I have reneged on my promise I made at Vennainallur that I am your slave for eternity and lived indifferently. Please pardon me!

He catches the sacred feet of Easan and shed copious tears.

Iraivan

 You have appealed to Me as to when you will have the opportunity to serve the Adiyavars! I have come here again to fulfill that desire of yours!

Sundaramoorthiyar (crying with tears in his eyes)

Even if  I praise You through a thousands and thousands  of words, it will not be enough  to define Your glory! For You have given the darisanam of Your sacred feet to this lowly imbecile which even Thirumal and Brahma could not discern!

 Easan

 Sundara! You are my bosom buddy! I am your friend! Doesn’t a friend need to come rushing when called by his buddy?

You have asked Me to guide you into righteous path whenever you falter from it. I have come here acceding to that demand. I will tell you a few more things about the glory of Adiyavars. When their fame is spoken off or sung by you, there is nothing more for you to achieve. They all get My blessings because they keep thinking of Me! They can conquer anything! They are never in want and have attained unequalled status! They have realised that “Anbe Sivam, Adhuve Aanandam” (Love alone is Easan and that alone is the greatest bliss).  They have crossed the threshold of both their  present and their after lives! You must reach to them!

Sundaramoorthiyar

You take me also as your servitor!

Easan

So be it! Please sing their glory once again.

Sundaramoorthiyar

You have prompted me by giving the first word of my first song as “Piththa” at Vennainallur. Likewise you prompted me once again. Please help me! Ayyane!

Easan 

You will garner immense glory by singing “Thiruththondar Thogai” starting with “Thillai vaazh Anthanar Adiyorkum Adiyen”.

Sundaramoorthiyar starts singing and the songs flow like a steady stream.  The people gathered in the Sannathi are mesmerised hearing his songs! Iraivan too is enchanted!

   ******

Thirukkailayam…

Ayyan and Annai are seated.

Annai

Easane! Whatever its, it is not proper for Your friend to lead his life like this and it is equally improper for You to just keep watching it!

Easan

What are you referring to? Is it his marriage to your maid Kamalini? Or is it his leading a lustful life forgetting me?

Annai

I am not referring to his marriage. He is living off his wife’s wealth! I am referring to that.

Easan

You are right! If he is not having any wealth of his own, he will be treated like a log of wood! Let Me do something about it right now!

He vanishes and Annai gives out a hearty laugh!

  *****

Kundayur, a fertile and renowned village for its abundant agricultural produce…

Kizhar of Kundayur is fast asleep in his house. Easan comes there and hails him. Waking up quickly, he looks around to find as to who has called him.

Easan (with a mild laugh)

It is I who called you!

Kizhar prostrates in front of Easan in great devotion and gets up with his body crouched in piety!

Kizhar (in raptures)

 Is it My Iraivan, who controls the entire universe at my doorstep? How blessed I am?

Iraivan

Yes! It is Me!  I have a task to be completed through you!

Kizhar (with his hands folded and one palm covering his mouth)

I await Your orders!

Iraivan

My friend Sundaran is staying back in the house of his wife after his marriage. Please provide him with rice, pulses and sugarcane juice as per his need.

Kizhar

I will carry out your orders forthwith with all my heart.

It is dawn and Iraivan disappears after blessing Kizhar. Kizhar wakes up his wife and narrates the order of Easan. Both of the happily collect all the paddy bags, pulses and sugarcane juices and load them on the carts and drive them to Thiruvarur forgetting even to eat his food. He hands over all the goods to Sundaramoorthiyar with due resects and regards.

Kizhar

Perumanare! All these are given by Easan!

Sundaramoorthiyar

Periyavare! I do not know who you are!  May I know why are you gifting me so much of goods?

Kizhar (touching the feet of Perumanar)

To serve an Adiyavar is same as serving Easan!

Saying this he bows to him and returns to his village.

   ****

Kizhar (to his wife on return)

I am truly and greatly blessed to have met the Perumanar.

Wife

It is of immense fortune that Easan Himself came here to give you an opportunity to serve the Perumanar!  I have heard as to how   Easn arranged and conducted his wedding with Paravai Nachchiyar! We are truly blessed to be of service to them! But you have overlooked only one thing. The amount of goods that you have handed over will not last even for ten days of her retinue! We should take out our gold and gems from our chests and buy paddy, pulses and other items from the market and fill their entire mansion.

Appreciating her noble idea, he gathers all the gold and gems in his house in sacks and reaches the wholesale market in the neighbouring village to buy the items.  He is surprised that the market is almost empty with no stock of paddy or other produce. He looks around and finds a man at last. He enquires from him as to why the market is empty.

The man

It appears you are a very wealthy man! Perhaps that is why you are not even aware that people are afflicted by famine and there is not a grain of rice for making even porridge! There is nothing to eat! What is the use of your gold and gems that you are carrying? Can they satiate the hunger? If there is no food people will die of hunger!

 Kizhar

Ayyo! What a calamity? Just because I had paddy and pulses in my stock, I did not care to see the condition outside! If I do not supply paddy as ordered by Easan, Perumanar will suffer from hunger! What is the use of this fortune I am having, if I cannot get a morsel of food to satisfy the hunger? How can I go and tell him that there is no paddy to supply his household? It is better to give up my life instead!

Not having a mind to eat, he goes to bed after reaching home worrying as to what to do further.

Easan appears before him again.

Easan

Kizhar Perumane! Your noble thoughts are praise worthy. Not worrying as what you will do to meet your own needs, you were prepared to give up your life rather than not meeting the requirement of adiyavar and concerned that the adiyavar would go hungry. So long as this earth exists, those who acclaim Sundaran will hail you as well! I will create a mountain of paddy for you. You hand it over to Adiyavar!

Easn disappears and the next morning there are huge heaps of paddy laid in front f his mansion. The entire village gathers there to see this miracle! All of them bow to Easan thanking His extreme compassion. Kizhar is again perplexed.

Kizhar (to himself)

How can I manage to collect, carry and load the carts this mountainous volume of paddy? Is it humanly possible?

He starts off to Thiruvarur wondering how to cart this there. At the same time, Easan tells Sundaramoorthiyar that Kundayur Kizhar is coming to Thiruvarur and he must go and meet him on the way. So, Perumanar rushes towards Kundayur and they meet each other. As they pay their respects to each other, the entourage of Adiyavars chants “Hara Hara” in great devotion.

Kizhar

Being a friend of Easan but proclaiming as a servitor of Adiyars, You are truly a noble soul! Easan has left a mountainous amount of paddy in front of my house. To gather and transport that lot is humanly impossible. How can I bring it to Thiruvarur?

Sundaramoorthiyar

I am very pleased to meet Kizhar Perumanar! Easan has gifted you with this enormous amount of paddy only because He likes you! Come let us go and see heaps of paddy.

He catches his hand and both of them start towards Kundayur. The news that Sundaranar, the friend of Easan is coming to Kundayur spreads like wild fire. People from nearby villages also gather at Kundayur and are amazed to see heaps of paddy lying in front of Kizhar’s mansion. All of them are eagerly waiting for the arrival of Perumanar chanting Panchaksharam. Perumanar reaches there and he is equally amazed to see the quantum f paddy lying in heaps. He goes to the nearby temple of Easan and parry to Kolilinathar (கோளிலிநாதர்). He sings a Pathigam (நெல்லிட ஆள்வேண்டிப்பதிகம் ) seeking Iraivan’s intervention to get manpower cart the paddy! Easan’s compassionate voice is heard.

Easan

Sundara! It is already midday. Go back to your village in peace! I will get My Ganas to transport the paddy to Thiruvarur!

Bowing to Easan Perumanar returns to Thiruvarur. Throughout the night, he is thinking as to how Easn will send that lot of paddy to reach the mansion of Paravayar. It is day break and the whole town f Thiruvarur is agog seeing paddy dumped in heaps and heaps along all the streets. Paravayar wakes up Perumanar who is startled hearing a great commotion outside.

Paravayar

 What a great miracle! The paddy has arrived.

Sundaramoorthiyar comes to the balcony and sees paddy heaped everywhere in heaps and heaps. There is not even space for people to walk by. There is paddy , paddy lying everywhere.

Sundaramoorthiyar

Easan perhaps caused a rain of paddy all through the night at Thiruvarur to transport it from Kundayur! How I can ever describe the immense compassion and sporting miracles!

Paravai Nachchiyar

Iraivan has immense love for you! Not only he has sent the paddy to give you fame, but to ensure that no one feels the pangs of hunger, he has filled up the entire town with paddy. Such a miracle has not been heard or seen before not they will be in future. All these events are to be scribed in gold for posterity! I must have done great penance in my previous birth to have you as my husband in this birth!

She starts thinking.

Aaroorar

What is the matter? Are you thinking as to how to get this into our mansion/

Paravai Nachchiyar

No! Not at all! Even though Easan has sent this for our sake, Easn has covered the entire town only to make sure no one suffers due to famine. I am going to announce through the town crier that each household can take away the paddy lying in front of their houses for their consumption.

She rushes to get the announcement proclaimed. Sundaranar goes to the balcony and finding people unable to come out of their houses due to heaps of paddy lying on their door steps, he laughs aloud!

     *****

One day in Thiruvarur..

A stranger walks along the road with his arms folded and cupped in reverence. He stops a local and enquires.

Stranger

 Ayya! I am new to this place. I am Kotpuliyar from Nattiyaththankudi. I understand that Easan has showered a bountiful rain of paddy for the sake of His friend! I have come here to meet that great soul1

Local man

How can we praise the compassion of Easan who filled Thiruvarur with paddy to prove that even if there is one noble soul in a place, the others will not suffer?  The charitable nature of Paravai Nachchiyar, a Rudra Kanikayar by birth, who distributed the entire lot to the people of Thiruvarur, is also praise worthy!  He stays in her mansion only. If you proceed in this road, the biggest mansion you will see belongs to her.

Kotpuliyar (to himself as he walks along)

 I am saddened that he, whom Easan called him as His friend, is staying with a Kanikayar! How an Adiyavar stays in the house of a Dasi? I am anguished even hearing it. Somehow, I must invite him to my house and get him married to a woman of noble descent.  Suppose no one comes forward to give his daughter as he is staying with a Kanikayar? Ayyo! I will die of disappointment!

Suddenly he stops recollecting something.

Kotpuliyar (to himself)

Why I am getting worried? I have two daughters. I will marry both of them to Adiyavar and clear his stigma of staying with a Kanikayar.

He reaches the mansion of Paravayar. Sundaramoorthiyar comes out in all his finery wearing his crown and sporting garlands of gems. Kotpuliyar rushes and prostrates in front of him.

Kotpuliyar (getting up)

Adiyavar Perumane! My village is Kotpuliyar. My hut is at Nattiyaththankudi. I and the people of my village are yearning to see you visiting our village. You must please come there and  fulfill our desire! 

Sundaramoorthiyar

If it is ordained by Easan, I will come to your village during my Yatra of visiting   temples nearby.

Kotpuliyar leaves highly pleased and feeling greatly blessed!

   ****

In a few days, Perumanar starts off for his Yatra and reaches Thirukkotpuliyur. The entire Nattiyaththankudi sports a festive look to welcome the Adiyavar Peruman. Kotpuliyar welcomes Sundaramoorthiyar and his retinue of adiyavars and leads them to his house. He gets Perumanar seated on a golden seat! He does the padapujai of Perumanar placing his feet on a golden Tambalam. He serves Perumanar and his retinue of adiyavars sumptuous food and gifts all the adiyavars with gold and gems. Perumanar is highly pleased by the grand reception and care shown by Kotpuliyar.

One elder (coming and standing in front of Perumanar)

We are all aware of the fame of Aaroorar! Are you aware of the eminence of Kotpuliyar Nayanar?

Hearing the word Nayanar, Sundaramoorthiyar stands up and bows to Thirukkotpuli Nayanar.

Sundaramoorthiyar

I have come here only after knowing Kotpuliyar follows the finest Neris of a Sivanadiyar. I have failed to remember that he was hailed by Iraivan as a Nayanar!  Please tell me about his glory!

Elder

I will you his story now.

The elder narrates the story of Kotpuliyar Nayanar.

    *****

Kotpuliyar is both a close friend and also the Senathipathi of Chozha Mannar. He returns after subduing the enemies who have been troubling the kingdom by randomly attacking the king’s forces. He is given a rousing welcome. However, he informs the mannar that a large army of enemy forces are getting ready to attack the kingdom and they have to be well prepared for that. He seeks the permission of the king to go to his village for preparation of the war and also for some personal work urgently. The mannar accedes to his request and tells him that he knows what are the things to be done by him. If the war breaks out in his absence, the mannar himself will lead the troops and he can rush back to join the battle.

Kotpuliyar spends his entire earning as Senathipathi for buying cultivable lands so that its produce can feed all the adiyavars coming to the temples of Easan surrounding his village. He wants to ensure enough grains are stocked for the same in case he is away in battle for many months. He goes to village to a rousing welcome. He makes all the arrangements for storage of grains and their safe keep for feeding the adiyavars. All of a sudden the war breaks out and he rushes to the battle front to conduct the war. The war lingers on for more than ten months. The Chozha army is victorious and Kotpuliyar returns home. His mother looks scared seeing him.

Puliyar (confused)

Ammai! Last time when I came after subduing a few thugs troubling the kingdom, there was a rousing reception. Now we have won over our enemies and achieved a great victory. Even the far off kingdoms are aware of our triumph! But not even one in our village has come forward to greet me! Where is father?

His mother blinks without giving a reply.

 Puliyar (Assessing that there is something wrong somewhere)

Ammayar! Has paddy been provided to all the Sivan temples as I have directed?

Thai (stammering)

That… You see. After you left for taking part in the war, there was severe famine here. The gold that you left behind also could not suffice. We had to eat the grain stored in our houses. Now that the famine is over, there are crops in the field. We will fill up our granaries with paddy after the harvest and send it to the temples.

Puliyar

That means.. All these days nothing was sent to the temples of Easan. Is that correct?

Finding that her son is not angry..

Thai (gaining courage)

When we were ourselves famished, how can we send the grains to the temple? Even if we give, will the God eat it? Only those who are roaming around there doing no work will be eating it! So, whatever grains were stored here has been distributed to all our relatives in the village for their consumption. It is all due to famine.

Puliyar

You have grabbed what has been meant for Easan!  Isn’t that so?

Thai

Don’t you know that charity has to begin at home!

Before she completes her sentence, Puliyar chops off her head with his sword. Seeing his act, his father and other relatives who have been hiding behind the curtains start to run. But Puliyar chases and chops off everyone’s head. He comes with holding his sword dripping with blood. Seeing him with his sword drawn, all his other relatives run helter skelter to save themselves from his fury. He reaches his paternal uncle’s house at last. There he finds a small baby crying in a cradle. He picks up the baby and looks at it.

An elder runs and stops Puliyar.

Elder

Senathipathiyare! This is not a battle field for you to chop off and kill whoever you see.  This the only one left alive in your entire clan. This has not robbed the grains from Sivan!

Puliyar

 I have punished my parents for they have committed Siva aparadham (a sacrilege against Easan). This child was suckled by his mother who ate the grains meant for Easan. So this is also to be punished.

He throws the child up and cuts it off with his sword as it comes down.

At that time the Dhundhubhi and conch shell are blown with a resounding echo. Easan appears with Annai on his Nandi vahanam. Kotpuliyar prostrates on seeing Easan and gets up. As Easan looks around compassionately, the severed body of the baby rejoins and it becomes alive. All those whose heads were severed by Kotpuliyar also come back to life. All of them bow to Easan and Annai.

 Easan

To show to the world that those who commit Siva aparadham will be punished, you raised your sword against you own parents and other blood relatives to punish them. You will be hailed as Thirukkotpuli Nayanar! Your name and fame will remain as long as this earth remains. Whosoever worships Me will worship you as well. All those who have been punished by you, wilt also attain Sivagathi! After completing your tasks in this earth, you will unite unto mE!

There is a shower of flowers from the heavens!

      *****

After narrating his story, the elder bows to Perumanar.

The elder 

After that war, he requested the Chozha Mannar to relieve him from his post of Senathipathi. He married a noble lady and begot two daughters. The whole village is famed because of him. But he also has a desire which only Perumanar can fulfill.

Perumanar 

What does he want? Do tell me whatever it is!

Elder

He wants you to marry his daughters Singadiyar and Vanappagaiyar so that your fame is lauded throughout the world.

Sundaramoorthiyar looks at Kotpuliyar and his two daughters standing there with their hand folded with great compassion.

Sundaramoorthiyar

You have displayed a great courage to give your daughters in marriage to me so that the stigma of my living with a woman belonging to the caste of Dasi is removed and that I my fame spreads throughout the world.   You will be hailed for this attitude of yours for along long time.  I married Paravai Nachchiyar in the Sannathi of Thyagesar with Agni and all Devas as witness. This marriage of mine was solumnised by Easan Himself! The daughters of Kotpuliyar, who is leading his life as a servitor of adiyavars, are like my daughters. It is a great sin even to think of marrying them. Singadiyar and Vanappagaiyar who readily came forward and agreed to their father’s wishes are praiseworthy! They and their father will be remembered by all so long as this earth remains.

Sundaramoorthiyar composes a pathigam in praise of Rathnagiriswarar. Thirukkotpuliyur bows to Perumanar.

   *****

Days pass by. One day before retiring to bed Sundaramoorthiyar overhears two of the maids of Paravai Nachchiyar talking.

Maid 1

Adiye! Madhuravalli! Did you notice that Nachchiyar is looking very much worried? 

Madhuravalli

Yes! She is not having proper sleep also. What can be the reason?

Maid 1  

Nachchiyar used to keep the farm produce for own use and sell off the surplus for gold all these years. Because of famine, there has been no income. In about ten days, the festival of Panguni Uttiram is due. There will be thousands of adiyavars who will be coming here to be fed and given gifts. Without any gold in her coffer, she is highly perturbed as to how she will manage to host them. That is why she has lost her sleep and is looking forlorn!

Madhuravalli

Can’t she tell her problem to Perumanar? Won’t he be able to solve it in a second?

Maid 1

You don’t know anything! This adiyavar is wearing a crown only because he is the foster son of the king. Otherwise, he has nothing to boast of! There is no difference between him and an Adiyavar who goes around begging with a bowl!

Madhuravalli

You said it right! He does not have even a coin for himself! He is managing by living off Paravayar’s income!

Sundaramoorthiyar is shocked hearing the conversation of the maids and stands transfixed.

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

Alas! Nachchiyar is in such a predicament! Though I am dressed like a prince, there is no difference between me and a pauper as the maid correctly inferred! As an Adiyavar I do not have anything as my own. How do I, then, solve the financial problem of   Nachchiyar? How to feed the thousands and thousands of Adiyavars during Panguni Uttiram? If they are not fed, they will be famished! What do I do now?

Worried, he cannot sleep that night!

  ****

Next morning he starts off on his visit to the temples with his retinue of adiyavars. They reach Thiruppugalur by evening. He sings in praise of Agneeswarar in His sannathi. An adiyavar informs him that as it is already dark, it will not be possible to continue their journey to Thiruvarur. He suggests that they stay in the matam there itself for the night and resume their journey the next morning. Sundaramoorthiyar agrees and all of them walk towards the matam. Easan is giving a gentle smile as His friend Aarooran walks out of the sannathi. Perumanar is giving a rousing reception in the matam. He observes that bricks are securely stacked inside.

Sundaramoorthiyar

How strange? The bricks are securely stacked inside rather than kept outside! Is this place notorious for thievery?

The Matam inmate

Perumanare! These bricks are blessed as they have touched the sacred feet of Easan! To ensure that they are not soiled by humans, animals or birds, we have kept them inside!

Sundaramoorthiyar

How they have been graced by Easan’s feet? Please explain.

The Matam inmate

The Easan residing in this temple dispels the Vaastu defects of buildings. Those who have no houses of their own and those whose houses have some blemishes as per Vaastu Sastram, keep the bricks on the path of Easan around the Praharam in the temple to ward off the ill effects due to Vaastu.  Those who have no house of their own are also able to get their houses built soon. We have kept the bricks safely so that the people in need of them do not have to run around to get them. Emperuman Agneeswarar burns all the defects of Vaastu and brings prosperity to His devotees. This is the only Kshetram for getting relief from Vaastu defects in the whole world!

The Matam inmate

Aaha! These bricks are truly blessed as Easan’s sacred feet have walked over them. I will keep them as a pillow to rest my head to night! Let Easan’s sacred feet lie on my head through these bricks.

Bowing to the bricks, he picks up seven of them and arranges them as a pillow. Placing a towel over them, he rests his head on the brick-pillow and goes to sleep in a few seconds.

Next morning…

He wakes up and removes the towel. Lo and behold! The clay bricks have turned into golden bricks! 

A divine voice emanates from the sky.

The divine voice

Sundara! These bricks have turned to gold only to propagate the greatness of Adiyavars to the entire world! Take them and hand them over to Paravayar. Tell her to host the thousands of Adiyavars who will be reaching there during Panguni Uttiram as before! The adiyavars who come to Thiruvarur must not go hungry because Paravayar has no means!

Sundaramoorthiyar reaches the sannathi of Easan along with his retinue and sings many songs praising the compassion, Iraivan has shown for His adiyavars.

  ****

During the Panguni Uttiram festival, Paravayar and Sundaranar host the thousands of adiyavars who have come to Thiruvarur in a grand manner.

    ******

Sundaramoorthiyar is getting ready for his Yatra.

Paravayar

Till now, you have been undertaking Yatra only for a few days. This time you are undertaking a very long journey. It will take many days for you to return. I cannot live without you for a long time. So please come back quickly.

Sundaramoorthiyar

We are both servitors of Easan. You carry on with your devoted work of making garlands for him. I will visit the temples and sing in praise of Easan. I will return for sure. Wait for me.

As Perumanar starts off with his retinue of adiyavars to the chants of Panchaksharam, Nachchiyar bids him farewell not knowing that he will return   performing a   miraculous deed which no one can ever attempt to do! 

  *****

Visiting Thirunannilam, Thiruveezhimalai, Thiruvanchiyam, Thiruchitheechcharam, Thruvaduthurai, Thiruvidaimaruthur, Thirunageswram, Thirukkalayanallur, Kumbakonam, Thiruvalanchuzhi, Thiruchchotruthuri, Kandiyur, Thirvaiyaru, and Thirupponthuruththi on his way, he reaches Thiruvaalampozhil. In all these temples he sings Thevaram in praise of Easan.

During the night in his dream …

Easan (sorrowfully)

Sundara! Why have you forgotten Me and reached here?

Sundaramoorthiyar (startled)

How can I ever forget You? I am Your slave who lives by thinking only about You!  How can You say such thing to me?

Easan

Then, why didn’t you come to see Me at Mazhappadi?

Sundaramoorthiyar (confused)

I go euphoric seeing You in every Sthalam and sing Your praise in raptures! Who is there everywhere except You? I am surprised that You are feeling sad for not seeing You at Mazhappadi!

Easan

Though I reside everywhere, I assume a special and distinct appearance in each of these Sthalam! If you come to Mazhappadi, you will see what My special appearance there is?

Easan disappears.

Next morning, Perumanar rushes to Thirumazhappadi along with his followers. The in the sannathi, he goes into raptures seeing the golden hue of Easan’s body. He composes and sings the song which is sung eternally all over the world.

Sundaramoorthiyar (addressing Easan)

Ponnar Meniyane! பொன்னார் மேனியனே! ( Thou  with the golden body)

As he calls Easan, the temple bells toll resoundingly. Sundarar and the Adiyavars are ecstatic hearing the bells ringing. As he looks at Easan without batting an eyelid, he observes Easan sporting the tiger skin around his waist.

Sundaramoorthiyar (continues)

Puliththolai Araikkisaiththavane! (புலித்தோலை அரைக்கிசைத்து) (wearing a tiger skin around the waist)

Easan laughs aloud … Sundaramoorthiyar has the vision of Easan in all His glory and he continues singing…

Sundaramoorthiyar

பொன்னார் மேனியனே  புலித்தோலை அரைக்கிசைத்து

மின்னார் செஞ்சடைமேல் மிளிர் கொன்றை அணிந்தவனே

மன்னே மாமணியே! மழப்பாடியுள் மாணிக்கமே!

அன்னே உன்னையல்லால் இனி யாரை நினைக்கேனே!

Ponnar Meniyane! Puliththolai Araikkisaiththu 

Minnar senchadaimel milir Konrai aninthavane

Manne ! Mamaniye! Mazhappadiyul manikkamae1

Anne Unnaialla ini yaraininaikkene!

Thou art with the golden body! Thou art who sport a tiger skin around your waist,

Thou art who wear the glittering Konrai flowers on the   golden tresses

My King! The greatest of all gems! Thou art who dazzles like a ruby at Mazhappadi!

My Lord! Excepting You, who I will ever think of?

He completes the pathigam saying that this pathigam composed by Aarooran will be hailed by the people of this world and those who reside in the heavens.

The heavens open up with a shower of flowers. His retinue of adiyavars are mesmerised by the betty of Easan and chant Panchaksharam aloud.

    ****

Next he reaches Thiruanaikka…  Surrounded by water Easan is seated blissfully in the sannathi. Perumanar with his eyes closed meditates on Easan and the past events concerning the Chozha Mannar flash in his mind. Once, during the Thirthavaari, the Mannar gets down in the Ponni (Cauvery) river along with his retinue to have his bath. The royal necklace he is wearing, which has been handed down the generations, gets washed way in the swirling waters of the river. The mannar is deeply distressed for having lost the family legacy and wondering how he will return with a heavy heart. Praying to Easan, he reaches the sannathi of Easan and prays to Easan fervently. The Gurukkal takes out the water from the temple well in the pitcher for doing Abhishekam of Easan. As he empties the pitcher, the necklace falls out of it , garlanding  the Easan, it reaches His feet along with the water. Easan has played His part to remove the distress of the mannar by getting the necklace from the river and planting it in the temple well. The mannar and his retinue chant “Hara Hara” with tears flowing in their eyes thanking the compassion shown by Easan!

Sundaramoorthiyar composes song recollecting this episode and praising Easan!  

He resumes his Yatra and reaches Tiruppachchilasramam. By now, the food articles and other goods that have been brought along get exhausted and there is nothing left to feed the retinue of adiyavars. He appeals to Easan to help him out. But Easan appears unmoved. Finding nothing in the sannathi, Perumanar starts singing extolling Easan and at the same time chiding Him as to why he is indifferent to his suffering through his songs! 

Easan (to Himself)

 I wonder what all he is going to say to gain my sympathy!

Sundaramoorthiyar continues his pleading to Easan saying that there no one but Easan to help him there. Easan raises His hand and the sannathi gets filled with gold and gems. Sundaramoorthiyar seeing that Iraivan has come to his help, raises both his hands above his head and prostrates in front of Easan chanting Panchaksharam. The temple bells toll resoundingly.

   ****

Perumanar visits a large number of places where Easan has taken His abode and in each of them he composes songs in praise of Easan! He reaches Peroor after visiting Kodumudi and Thruppaingeely. At Peroor,   Perumanar pleads to Easan to perform His dance so that he and all the adiyavars in his group can witness the same. Acceding to his request, Easan gives dance pose. Annai stands with Her hands in the Abhaya Mudra. While Naradar plays his Tambura and Nandi plays the Mridangam, Annai Saraswati tunes her Veena. The Siva Ganas take up their respective musical instruments.  Easan and Annai start their dance smiling at Sundaramoorthiyar.  To witness the sacred dance of Easan and Annai all the Gods and Devas arrive there from the heavens.

   *****

The Yatra starts off from Peroor and Perumanar visits many temples on his way. He wants to end the Yatra as soon as possible and return home to Paravayar! He wants to reach Thirumudhukkunrur at the earliest avoiding Thirukkoodalaiyaatrur on the way. He asks his followers to find the route for reaching Thirumudhukkunrur. After some time one of them returns saying that no one there seems to be aware of the route to Thirumudhukkunrur but they only know the route to Thirukkoodalaiyaatrur! At that time an elderly Anthanar approaches him and asks whether he has lost his way. Perumanar asks whether he knows the route to Thirumudhukkunrur. The Anthanar says that he himself will take him there. Catching the hand of Perumanar, the Anthanar leads the retinue. After a while he finds that they have reached Thirumudhukkunrur instead and the Anthanar disappears!

Sundaramoorthiyar

Ayyane! Is that You, who has been holding my hand all along? How foolish I am not to recognize You?

Divine Voice

Sundara! Only to show My dance form with Umayaval in this temple to you, I have brought you here!

Perumanar sings a pathigam in praise of Easan while adiyavars stand in great reverence.

   ****

Thirumudhukkunrur…

Perumanar is standing along with his followers in the sannathi praying to Easan.

 Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

Iraiva! You are well aware what the maids of Paravai Nachchiyar said when there was nothing left with her to feed the Adiyavars during Panguni Uttiram! Their conversation is still ringing in my ears. I have only handful of Thiruneeru and a garland of Rudraksham as my possession now. Will not Paravai eagerly waiting for some gifts from me when I return home? Do You want me to go home empty handed?  How can Your Adiyavar be subjected to such a mean state?

 Disturbed by his penury state, a large number of songs emanate from Perumanar pleading Him to donate a miniscule part of the wealth He and Annai have with them! At the end, he pleads that Easan ignore his mad ranting against Easan in his songs but help him out quickly with wealth. Easan enjoys the intricate play of words in the songs of Perumanar and laughs aloud shaking His body! The golden dust covering His body falls off and covers the sannathi! Sundaramoorthiyar is highly please that Easan has answered his prayers. At the same time he is worried as to how to cart the gold dust spread around the Sannathi!

As he prays to Easan to show him a way, the entire lot of dust turns into bars of gold! His followers start counting the bars. There are twelve thousand gold bars in all.  As it is impossible to carry them even by the entire lot of Adiyavars to Thiruvarur, Perumanar again asks Easan to give them at Thiruvarur!

Divine voice

 Sundara! Drop these gold bars in the Manimuththar River and take them out in Thiruvarur temple tank!

Please, Sundaramoorthiyar and the adiyavars bow to Easan and with the help of Adiyavars and other local people carry away the gold bars on their heads to the river bank. The news that the gold bars are going to be dropped in the river spreads like wild fire and a large crowd of people assemble near the banks of the river to witness the event.  A few of them ridicule this as a foolish act and they will lose the gold bars for good! But Perumanar is adamant to carry out the order of Easan!   As Perumanar and other adiyavars drop the bars in the swirling waters of the flooded river chanting “Hara, Hara”, the bars disappear without a trace in the flood waters!

The Adiyavars start off to Thiruvarur quickly to the bewilderment of the assembled public!

   ****

Sundaramoorthiyar along with his Adiyavars are approaching Thiruvarur. The news of their arrival spreads quickly and the entire town is decked up and he is given a grand reception. After visiting the temple of Easan, his followers return to their respective homes and Sundaranar reaches the mansion of Paravai Nachchiyar.

That night Paravai Nachchiyar expresses her wish that Perumanar must always stay close to her in future lest he may forget her during his long absence. It takes a bit of convincing by Perumanar that she should not harbour such thoughts. Sundaranar narrates all the events that have happened where Iraivan came to his help during his Yatra. He narrates that Iraivan has given him countless number of gold bars. When she asks him as to where those bars are, he says that he has dropped them in the river abiding the orders of Easan and he will recover them from the temple tank Kamalalayam of Thiruvarur.   Paravayar is shocked as she perceives that the bars have been lost forever. Paravayar laughs saying that Easan has played a trick on Perumanar. Sundaramoorthiyar, though annoyed by her remarks, tells her that they will go to the temple tank next morning and he will retrieve all the gold bars from there. 

Next morning, both Perumanar and Nachchiyar reach the Thyagesar Sannathi. After praying to Easan they reach the sacred tank Kamalalayam on the western side of the temple. Seeing the couple walking towards the tank with their palms cupped in devotion, the people also follow them. Auspicious sound of “Hara Hara”   is chanted aloud everywhere. The news that the gold bars left in the river are going to be taken out from the temple tank spreads far and wide and soon a large number people from villages around Thiruvarur also assemble there to witness the miracle.

Sundaramoorthiyar keeps his Makutam and garlands on the steps of the tank. He looks up at Easan’s sannathi and his beloved and jumps into the tank. Not seeing emerging from the water for a long time, the people are worried. As he comes out the crowd chants “Om Namasivaya”. But seeing that he is not holding any gold bar in his hands makes fun of him saying that she is seeing someone who drops something in a river and traces the same in a pond! After a number of futile searches in the water, Sundaramoorthiyar (praying to Easan)

Thou Art of golden hue

Who wraps a tiger skin around the waist!

Thou art Who burnt down capital of Asuras, the Tripuram!

Please do something to save my reputation in front of my beloved standing here!

With the earthlings and heavenly bodies as witness,

You gave me glittering gold dust of immeasurable quantity!

Thou Art, Who resides in Mudhukkunrur, dispel the distress of my beloved!

Help me out of this dishonor!

Please retrieve the gold so that I do not suffer any more disrepute in front of my beloved.

I have never left my thoughts away from You even for a split second.

Please get back the gold for me!

With tears in his eyes, he plunges into the water and observes all the gold bars glittering there. He comes out with a smiling face. He bows to Easan saying that Iraivan has shown the gold bars lying in the water.

Adiyavars

Chanting panchaksharam, his retinue of adiyavars enters the pond and plunging inside retrieve the gold bars and bring them up. The people assembled there are highly pleased to see the twelve thousand gold bars retrieved from the pond and kept on its bank.

Paravayar is still not convinced that what is dropped in a river cannot emerge in a pond. To convince her, Perumanar hands over a bar he has kept aside with him at Thirumudhukkunrur and gives it to Paravayar to compare it with the ones taken out from the pond. Easan playfully ensures that they differ in purity and the bars collected from the tank are of inferior quality. Paravai Nachchiyar taunts him saying that she is proved right in her claim that “what is dropped in a river cannot emerge in a pond”.  Disheartened Sundaramoorthiyar sings pleading to Easan to help him like He did to Thirugyanasambandar and Thirunavukkarasar by gifting them pure gold coins!

 Kailayam…

Annai and Easan are watching the fun …

Easan (laughing) 

Had I not played these tricks, We would not have listened to the beautiful songs of Perumanar. Even now, he is praying to save him from ridicule and make his beloved happy!

As Easan raises His hand, the gold bars kept on the bank regain their purity without any blemish.

Paravayar falls on the feet of Perumanar and begs him to pardon her not only for ridiculing him but also for testing Easan! 

Sundaramoorthiyar picks her up and both of them walk towards Thyagesar sannathi followed by the retinue of Adiyavars. Panchakshara mantram reverberates everywhere!

   ******

The mansion of Paravayar …

Sundaramoorthiyar is preparing for his Yatra. His retinue of Adiyavars has already reached the gates the mansion. There is chanting of Panchakshara. Paravayar looks up at Perumanar with tears filled in her eyes. Sundaramoorthiyar tries to pacify her saying that this is not te first time he is going away from home. Paravayar is apprehensive that this time he will be away for a longer period visiting far off places in the north and he may forget her. She also says that she is worried that he may marry some other woman and not return at all. Perumanar consoles her that she must not even dream of such things and he will be true to her always. He promises in the name of Thyagesar that he will never even think of another woman.

At the same time in Thirukkailayam…

Easan is laughing allowed seeing the events happening at the mansion of Paravayar. A

Annai  

Why are You laughing? Is it because your friend is giving a false promise to his wife? Is it because that he is going to break his promise made to his wife?

Easan

I am laughing that he is going to be in big trouble in future!

Annai

It is Aninthithai who coveted him first and married him through Gandharva vivaham! Kamalini was infatuated by him and fell for him like a Dasi. She is born as Paravai Nachchiyar and is already married to Sundarar. What is the future for my maid and friend Aninthithai? She has to marry him as his second wife. But Sundarar has already promised that he will not even think of another woman! What is Your Plan?

Easan

Forget about who has married first and all that. Just wait and see how Sundaran is going to entangle himself in difficulties by breaking his promise!

Annai

You have taken Sundarar as Your friend!  Is it right to feel delighted seeing him in troubles!

Easan

 Unless the gold is smelted in the raging fire and beaten, the impurities in it will not be removed. Being born a human is also like that. Unless, he is put through a tough life suffering as a result of his own doing, he will not recognize his follies and correct himself to follow the correct path! He will also realise the correct path for his salvation in due course! It is just starting now!

Annai recollects telling Aninthithai that she will be born as Sangiliyar and marry Aalalasundarar in due course!

    *******

Sangiliyar is born to Kizhar, a wealthy man of Thiruvotriyur. Right from childhood, she wears all the insignias of Sivan projecting the image of a Sivanadiyar. As she reaches the marriageable age, she makes it clear to her parents that she will marry only the one indicated by Easan and attain Sivalokam at the end. She asks her father to stop talking about her marriage and stop looking for a groom for her.

She declares that her thoughts are always in prayer of Easan residing in Thiruvotriyur and His consort   Vadivudaya Annai only. She wants her father to build a Kannimadam near the temple at Thiruvotriyur where she intends staying in service of Easan.  Kizhar creates a Kannimadam at Thiruvotriyur and makes arrangements for her stay and safety. On an auspicious day, he leaves her there with a few maids and friends and returns home.

    *******

At about the same time…

Sundaramoorthiyar is leaving Thiruvarur along with his followers and reaches Thirunallar. After praying to Easan there, he reaches Thiruveerattanam, Thiruvalampuram, Sayakkadu, Thiruvenkadu, Tiruchchemponpalli and Thiruninrivur. In all these Kshetram he composes and sings songs praising Easan! In Thiruninrivur, he sings a pathigam recollecting the deeds of Thirunavukkarasar Peruman. From there he reaches Thirukkolakka passing through Thirunidur and Thiruppunkoor.  Here he sings a pathigam remembering Thirugyanasambandar. From there he along with his followers walks towards Thirukkurukkavur. It is mid day and the heat is unbearable. The adiyavars are hungry and thirsty. Finding that the Adiyavars are not chanting “Hara Hara Siva Siva” as they walk along as they usually do, he turns around and find them staggering due to hunger and fatigue. Hoping that they will be able to get some water and food on reaching Thirukkurukkavur, he quickens his pace. Seeing a pandal erected at a short distance they all hurry up and reach there quickly. A Vediyar rushes forward welcoming Perumanar.

Sundaramoorthiyar (bowing to him in a loud voice)

Sivaya Nama

Vediyar

My blessing to you.

Sundaramoorthiyar

 Ayyare! The adiyavars are famished. Can we get some food and water somewhere nearby?

Vediyar

I can make out from their very look that is hungry. I have (cooked curd rice) Podhisoru and cold water. Come, we all can have our food.

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

Poor old man! He is giving the food brought for himself with us. We are in large numbers. How can all of us share the food meant for a single person.

As he is worrying like this, wide lotus leaves are placed for serving the food to Adiyavars. The Adiyavars are seated and Perumanar also gets seated among them. Vediyar opens the bundle containing Podhisoru and starts serving everyone. The adiyavars famished by hunger start eating with great relish. As they eat up what is served, the Vediyar keeps putting more and more in their leaves. There is no shortage of food and all have their stomach filled up. Drinking the cold water, the adiyavars fall fast asleep in a few minutes. Perumanar also!

In the evening with the cool air blowing, they all wake up one by one. Lo! And behold! The pandal where they were served food has vanished and there is no trace of Vediyar!

Sundaramoorthiyar

Alas! I could not recognise Easan who has come in the garb of Vediyar to serve us food!

He sings a Pathigam praising the Easan of Kurukkavur!

   ****

 After staying there for a few days, Perumanar resumes his Yatra. He visits Thillai, Thruththinai on his way to Thirunavalur. The news that he is reaching his birth place spreads like fire and the entire town is decked up and sports a festive look. He is received with great honour and taken to the Sannathi of Navaleeswarar. Sundaramoorthiyar sings a pathigam praising the glory of Navalur and Iraivan residing there!

The adiyavars and the assembled people are totally enchanted by his melodious singing. Easan is no exception!

   ******

After visiting many temples on his way to Thirukkazhugukunram, he spends a few days there and then reaches Thirukkachchur. After going around the huge temple and praying in the sannathi of Easan, it is already midday. The person detailed to bring food for them has not returned and all of them feel terribly hungry. Sundarar is perturbed seeing the Adiyavars famished.

Sundaramoorthiyar

Easane! What can I do to relieve the Adiyavars from hunger? They are so famished that they cannot even walk a few steps! I am unable to bear their distress!

Taking a step further, he staggers and leans on the compound wall overcome by hunger. An elderly Anthanar of that village runs to him.

 Sundaramoorthiyar (regaining his composure and looking happy as if he has seen Iraivan himself)

Anthana Sironmanaiye! You appear as an Adiyavar. My followers and I are hungry. If some arrangement can be made to give us food, it will be very good!

Anthanar

Hunger is also a disease! The apt medicine for it is food alone! As per Upnayanavidhi, I beg for food and eat whatever is served. Will Adiyavar eat what is obtained by begging?

 Sundaramoorthiyar

Whatever is given by You is acceptable to us!

Anthanar

I will come back quickly. You people stay here till I return.

He goes around the agraharam begging for food holding his Thiruvodu in His hand. Hearing “Bhavathi bhikshamdehi”, the womenfolk who have been waiting for the call of Adiyavar rush outside. They welcome Him and do Padapujai.  Bring the cooked food from their kitchens they drop it in the Thiruvodu. They are surprised to see that the Thiruvodu does not get filled up in spite of dropping more and more food into it. 

Easan in the garb of Anthanar (aloud)

The food be served by the “One who is medicine for diseases” (Pinikku Marunthanavar, that is Easan) is meant for the retinue of Adiyavars!

Hearing this, the women folk again enter their kitchens and bring whatever food is kept there and empty the entire lot in that Thiruvodu! Still it remains unfilled! The women folk go speechless not knowing what to do. The Anthanar leaves the place laughing holding the   Thiruvodu and returns to the temple compound where the Adiyavars are waiting. He asks them to get seated and serves all of them with His own hand taking the food from His Thiruvodu. Finding the food delicious, the adiyavars eat sumptuously. Satiated, Sundaramoorthiyar looks up at Anthanar with renewed vigour.   

The laughing Anthanar slowly disappears before his eyes slowly!

Sundaramoorthiyar gets up with a start and prostrates in front of the place where the Anthanar was standing!

Sundaramoorthiyar

How can I praise Your great compassion! You went around holding Thiruvodu and begging to satate our hunger.

He sings in praise of Easan!

   ****

After staying for a few days at Thirukkachchur, Perumanar reaches Kanchi. He visits many temples and whenever he goes short of funds for feeding the Adiyavar, Easan grants him  enough gold to provide for their food. He sings many pathigams in all these temples thanking Easan for coming to his rescue to feed the adiyavars. He visits Thirukkalaththi and composes pathigam in praise of Kannappar. After visiting Srisailam, Thirukkedaram, he reaches Thruvotriyur. The entire town sports a festive look to receive Perumanar. He is received with geat pomp and show and taken to the temple of Thyagesar of Otriyur. Fascinated by the temple and its surroundings, Perumanar decides to stay there. Finding a madam nearby, he decides to reside there itself and takes part in all the three daily Pujas and sings many songs in praise of Easan. One day, he chanced to hear a   woman’s voice which appears to be familiar.  Looking around he finds a curtain drawn in the mantapam. The voice behind the curtain is exhorting her maids to hurry up and asking for their delay. She is informed by her maid that they have gone to bow to Sundaramoorthiyar who has come to the temple. As her maids hand over the garland to the woman behind the curtain, she pushes it slightly to receive it. Sangiliyar who is behind the curtain draws up the curtain after taking the garland from her maids quickly. Sundaranar looks up and sees the face of the beautiful woman just for a second. Their bond of previous births is catching up!

Perumanar (whispering to an adiyavar standing nearby)

Who is this damsel? Has she descended from the heavens?

Adiyavar (in a murmur for only the Perumanar to hear)

She is Sangiliyar, the only daughter of a very wealthy person of this town named Gyayiru Kizhar.  She has devoted her entire life for the service of Easan. She has taken a vow that she will marry only the person selected by Easan Himself! Till such time she will remain in Kannimadam with her friends and maids without seeing any men folks except her own father.  No one has seen her face till today. It is a great play of Easan perhaps that you could have a glimpse of her today!

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself addressing Easan)

 When as an elderly Anthanar You made me Your slave at Vennainallur and said to me, “You have taken this birth for two women”.   At that time I could not understand its meaning.  If the woman I have already got is Paravayar, is she the second one for me?

With folded hands in reverence, he reaches the sannathi where Iraivan is waiting for his adiyavar with a smile!

Sundaramoorthiyar

Iraiva… What has come over me today? Why mind is ecstatic on seeing Sangiliyar? Why have You made me meet Sangiliyar when I am living happily with Paravayar with no other woman in my mind?

Iraivan laughs aloud. Hearing the sound of His laugh Sundaramoorthiyar comes closer and looks intently at Putridam Kondar!

Sundaramoorthiyar

Emperumane! You are laughing unaware of my predicament! You also have two consorts!   Annai Parvathi as Your left half and Gangai hidden Your head in the long tresses ! Please get me Sangiliyar who has broken my resolve of being married to Paravayar only!    

Iraivan

Are you challenging Me that when I can have two consorts, why not you too?

Sundaramoorthiyar (sings) 

I have been all the time only thinking that I am Your slave! Sangiliyar has broken that resolve! I do not know what to do now! Please show Your compassion!

He sings many songs pleading to Easan to get Sangiliyar as his wife. Hearing his pleadings through his songs Easan comes to a decision.

That night, when Perumanar is seated on his bed unable to sleep, Easan appears before him. Perumanar falls on His feet and catches them.

Sundaramoorthiyar

You have saved my life many times in the past! Because of You alone  I could marry Paravayar earlier. I wish to marry Sangiliyar now with Your help only. Will You grant this wish?

Iraivan (laughing)

You questioned Me as to why you cannot have two wives when I am having two consorts through your songs!  I have taken you as My friend! That is why, I am compelled to heed to your request. Leave your worry. I will make sure that Sangiliyar becomes your wife.

Sundaramoorthiyar bows to Easan as He disappears in the sky!

     *****

At the same time in the Kannimadam, as Sangiliyar closes her eyes forcing herself to sleep, Iraivan appears in her dream. She catches the feet of Easan.

Sangiliyar (with folded hands praying to Easan)

Iraivane! What can this servitor do for You, who are here to bless this soul?

Iraivan

Sangiliyare! Listen! Today, My friend who has abundant love for Me,  whose devotion is higher than even the Meru mountain and whom I have taken as My friend at Thiruvennainallur which the whole world is aware of, requested Me to get him married to you. You, beautiful maid! Marry him and spend your life happily living with him and complete your ordeal for this birth!

Sangiliyar

Emperumane! I am bound to and belong to only those who are Your Adiyavars! Before I accept Your order and act accordingly, I have a point to make to You! It is not that Iraivan is unaware of it! Adiyavar is already married to a woman belonging to Rudrakanikayar caste and is living happily at Thiruvarur. What will be my fate? Can You please tell me!

Iraivan laughs…

Easan 

I can see your point and your worry! You are anxious that Aarooran will leave you after marrying you and go away to Thiruvarur. He will make you a promise that he will not leave you as he is infatuated totally by you!

Next, Easn appears in front of Sundaramoorthiyar in the madam. Perumanar looks up at Him longingly!

Easan 

I have just now spoken to Sangiliyar. I told her about your longing to marry her. She has imposed a condition to be fulfilled by you before she can agree to marry you.

Sundaramoorthiyar

What is the condition that I must fulfill?

Easan 

You must make promise that you will never ever leave her!

Sundaramoorthiyar

I will do whatever is asked to be done to marry her.

Iraivan looks at His friend on hearing this!

 Sundaramoorthiyar (continues)

 But, I will also put a condition that my Yatra for visiting the temples of Easan will be exempt from this condition.

 Easan (mischievously)

I am not sure whether your counter condition will be acceptable to her! Suppose she refuses! Your marriage will turn to be a mirage!

Sundaramoorthiyar (thinking)

Whatever it is, I must make a promise the way she wants.

Easan

What will you do?

Sundaramoorthiyar 

 For that, I will need Your help!

Easan

In what way?

Sundaramoorthiyar 

Tomorrow, when she comes to tie the garland, she will come to the mantapam as usual. I will declare my intention to her. I will tell her that I will make the promise she wants in the Sannadhi in front of Easan! She will agree to it.

Easan

How are you so confident that she will agree?

Sundaramoorthiyar 

Just like me, she has unbound devotion towards You. Therefore, I am sure that she will agree.

Easan

You said that you wanted My help. What am I to do?

 Sundaramoorthiyar 

You must leave the Sannadhi, when I make my promise to her.

Easan (acting as if he is confused)

Why must I leave?

Sundaramoorthiyar 

If You remain there at that time, I will not be able to break the promise made in front of You! That will prevent me from visiting the sacred temples where You reside! I will lose the opportunity of seeing Your sacred darisanam in other places!

Easan

I understand. If I am not present there when you make your promise, you will be free to break it whenever you feel like! Isn’t it so? All right! Where do I go to from the Sannadhi?

Sundaramoorthiyar 

It is only for a short time. You go out and remain in the Mahizhamaram, the Sthalavriksham of this temple. After I make the promise, You must come inside the Sannadhi and conduct our wedding!

Easan (laughing)

I will do as you say!

He vanishes from there and appears in the dream of Sangiliyar!

Sangiliyar stands with her hands cupped in reverence on seeing Easan.

Easan

Nangaye! In the temple Aarooran will propose to make his promise in the Sannadhi. Do not agree to that. Agree to accept that promise under the Mahizhamaram!

Sangiliyar gets up shaken by the dream and wakes up her friends. She narrates all the events of the dream. All her friends bow to her.

     ******

The next morning, Sundaramoorthiyar reaches the temple eagerly waiting for the arrival of Sangiliyar.

Sangiliyar comes there with curtains held by her friends covering her on all sides. They walk ahead not bothering to stop or look at Sundaramoorthiyar. He tells one of her friends that all of them will go to Sannadhi. Her friend replies that it is not proper to take an oath or make a promise in the Sannadhi and Sangiliyar will hear him taking the oath under the Mahizhamaram only and he should therefore go and wait here. Sundaramoorthiyar is baffled that his plan has gone awry! Still worrying that Sangiliyar may refuse to marry him if he does not agree to her condition, he walks slowly towards the Mahizhamaram.

By now Sangiliyar hands over the garlands for the Puja and is already waiting for the arrival of Sundaramoorthiyar. Elated that she is waiting for him already, he walks quickly reaches her. The maids remove the curtains and Sangiliyar extends her hand laughing at Sundaramoorthiyar who stands speechless on seeing her. He catches hold of her hand and looking at her eyes intently and losing himself declares, “I will stay here only and not go out anywhere. This is my promise”. Sangiliyar falls on her feet devotedly and gets up. Sangiliyar is perturbed for forcing him to take a vow on the orders of Easan but   hides her agony. As she leaves for the mantapam without speaking a word Sundaramoorthiyar tries to walk along with her. Her friends stand in his way.

One of her friends

You have given a promise as required by Sangiliyar. Now seek her hand for marriage as per proper procedure.

Sundaramoorthiyar is crestfallen on hearing this and goes to the Sannathi. Easan is also walking along unknown to him!

Sundaramoorthiyar

You have been always coming come to my help and given me whenever and whatever I needed. Today    You have bestowed on me the best gift of all! That is Sangiliyar! Still I am told that I have to seek her hand through proper procedure. I have no one here except You! How do I go to her Kannimadam with bare hands? Who will accompany me? I do not know as how to arrange for the wedding celebrations! Only You can show me the way!

After bowing to Easan, he returns to the madam.

     *******

 That night…

Adiyavars are fast asleep, so also the people of Thiruvotriyur.

A divine voice wakes them all up! The people come on to the streets to find who has called them. So does the adiyavars sleeping the madam.

The Divine Voice

Adiyavarhale! The people of Thiruvotriyur! Do conduct the wedding of Nambi Aarooran with Nangai Sangiliyar with such great pomp show that it is hailed even in the heavens. This is My order!

The adiyavars and the people of the town bow to Easan and start preparation from that very moment at midnight! By the next morning the entire town is decorated and sports a festive look. All the people of Thiruvotriyur reach Kannimadam with women carrying various gifts to the accompaniment of music, dance and other manly sports. The village elder speaks to Sangiliyar.

The Village Elder

The entire town of Thiruvotriyur has assembled here to seek your hand in marriage for Sundaramoorthiyar. If you agree to our proposal, please accept the gifts that our women have brought along and give your consent for the day we have fixed for the wedding.

Sangiliyar accepts the gifts from the village women happily. The auspicious music is played heralding the commencement of wedding.

On the day fixed for the wedding ceremony, Sundaramoorthiyar is married to Sangiliyar in the Sannadhi of Easan with Agni as witness! The heavens shower flowers on the couple while the temple bells toll resoundingly. The assembled villagers and adiyavars bless the couple!

    ******

 The temple of Thyagesar…

The Gurukkal completes the midday Puja and bowing to Easan closes the doors and laves the Sannadhi. Easan looks at Annai…

Iraivan

Devi! What are you pondering over? Your friend Aninthithai has been married off in a very grand manner! Aren’t You happy?

Annai

All these events have taken place as destined! Still, I am unable to appreciate Your Thiruvilayadal( sacred play)?

Iraivan (as if He has not understood)

What are You referring as “My play”?

Annai

Do not act if You are not aware! You hid the request of Your friend from My friend and made him take his oath under the Mahizhamaram! Is it not betrayal of Your friend?

Easan laughs aloud ….

Iraivan

A second ago, you called it a play! Now you are calling it betrayal!

Annai

Adiyavars call your mischief as Thiruvilayadal!  For me , what you have done to Your friend is a clear case deceit!

Iraivan

What do you call as deceit?

Annai

You agreed to Your friend’s request that You would go away from the Sannadhi when he makes the promise to Sangiliyar. Later You told Sangiliyar to get that promise from him under the Mahizhamaram saying that it would be improper to make any promise in the Sannadhi! Isn’t it duplicity?

Easan

 Sundaran making such a request overcome with lust is understandable! But how come  You also have  not understood its implication?

Annai

Tell Me, what I have not understood!

Easan

I am omnipresent and am there in every part of the entire universe! Is there a place where I can be absent from?

Annai (bowing to Easan)

Ayyane! Please pardon My ignorance! I have also lost my mental balance in not realising this!

Easan

Whoever makes a promise whenever and wherever, it is made in My presence! Whosoever breaks the promise made in front of Me will be subject to punishment. When Sundaran leaves Thiruvotriyur, he will get the punishment due to him!

 Annai is perplexed ….

    *****

 Days roll by…

Sundaramoorthiyar is spending his time happily with his newly acquired wife.

In Kailayam Annai and Ayyan are seated.  Annai looks at Easan with a mild mischievous smile.

Easan 

I know, why are You giving that smile!

Annai laughs aloud.

Annai

You look pitiable! Your friend has totally forgotten You! Why must You be so despondent for him?

Easan

You do not know the value of friendship! You will not be making fun of Me otherwise!

Annai

You have only made Your friend to wallow in pleasure! Overcome by his carnal lust, he has forgotten You! 

Easan

Even unlimited pleasure will make a man sober!

Annai (surprised)

The people think of You only when they are in distress! How will anyone think of You and become sober when he is immersed in pleasure! I do not understand!

Easan

Gold becomes pure only when it is melted and pounded! Likewise whether it is happiness or sorrow, when it exceeds the limits, people start realising about them! Some people who are distressed surrender to Us while many others start abusing Us for their sorry state! Likewise when a pleasurable life exceeds its limits, it becomes a miserable life!  Aalalasundarar requested Me to guide him to the virtuous path when he is wavering from it while leading his life as human on this earth. The time has come to intervene and make him realise who he is and what is the purpose of his life!

Easan promises Annai that He is leaving for this task immediately!

   ******

Thiruvotriyur…

It is just before dawn….

Sangiliyar and Sundaramoorthiyar are fast asleep. Sundaramoorthiyar feels as if someone is calling him in his dream and finds himself standing in the Sannadhi of Thyagesar at Thiruvarur. As he sees the Easan in the Sannadhi, he feels like a calf reuniting with her mother cow after a long time! His dream disturbed, he wakes up to recollect as to where he is by looking around. Seeing Sangiliyar hugging him in her sleep , he starts shedding tears.

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

How have I forgotten my Easan? I have lost myself due to lust of Sangiliyar!  After seeing the darisanam of Easan of Thiruvarur in my dream, my senses have returned. I am not going to remain here without visiting the temples.

He feels ashamed of himself when he Sangiliyar, disturbed in her sleep tries to hold him. He gets up from the bed and goes to the balcony. He looks in the direction of Thiruvarur far beyond the limits of Thiruvotriyur!

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

I have forgotten my Easan because of the company of Sangiliyar.

He quickly takes bath and prepares himself to go out. Sangiliyar wakes up and seeing him getting ready to go out, she comes running to him.

Sangiliyar

Why have you gotten up early?    Where are you going at this hour which is very unusual?

Sundaramoorthiyar starts singing with tears flowing from his eyes in torrents.

Sundaramoorthiyar (sings)

How long I have separated myself from my Iraivan Aarooran!

Great sinner I am, I have forgotten my devotion and servitude to Easan due to my lust!

Realising that I am afflicted by this disease (of lust), I will now go and worship Him to get rid of it!

Like a ruffian, how long have I forgotten the great diamond of Easan!  

“எத்தனை நாள் பிரிந்திருக்கிறேன் என் ஆரூர் இறைவனயே!

பத்திமையும் அடிமையையும் கைவிடுவான் பாவியேன்!

பொத்தினநோய் அதுஇதனைப்பொருளறிந்தேன்!

முத்தினமாமணிதன்னை வயிரத்தை மூர்க்கன்

எத்தனை நாள் பிரிந்திருக்கிறேன் என் ஆரூர் இறைவனயே!”

Like this he keeps singing cursing himself for having immersed in lust and forgetting Easan. With hands folded and cupped in devotion he goes out of the mansion of Paravayar! Sangiliyar swoons unable to stop him from leaving her.

   *****

Thirukkailayam…

Annai observes that Easan is looking perturbed.

Annai 

You appeared in the dream of Your friend unable to bear his absence! Sundarar has realised his folly and is now heading for Thiruvarur to be near You! Why are You unhappy!

Easan

 By breaking the promise made to Sangiliyar by going beyond of the limits of Thruvotriyur, he is going to suffer severely! I am sad because of that!

Annai

  Immersed in unbound happiness, he has now realised his folly. By going through unbound suffering, he will become more and more pure! You only said that the gold has to be melted and beaten to make it pure! When I see that all these things are enacted by You only to make his fame known to the world in due course of time, I am truly elated by Your grace!

 Annai gets up and bows to Easan.

    *****

Thruvotriyur….

The Sannadhi of Putridamkondan…..

Sundaramoorthiyar with his palms cupped in great reverence is standing in front of Easan.

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

Because of You, I have got Sangiliyar as my wife. Though I may forget myself due to my lust, but I will never forget You! I am bowing to Your sacred feet, standing in front of You with my soiled body! Unless I visit the sacred temples and have your darisanam, it cannot be cleansed! For me to stay here any longer is impossible! I am seeking Your grace! Iraivane! Emperumane! Please grant my wish to visit all your temples.

He prepares to start his Yatra from then and there itself. The news that he is resuming his Yatra quickly spreads and his entourage adiyavars soon assemble at the entrance of the temple. As he steps out of the temple, they all chant “Hara Hara Siva Siva”. The Yatra begins and soon they reach the outskirts of Thruvotriyur. The moment, Sundaramoorthiyar crosses the town limit, he loses sight of both his eyes! Losing his eyesight all of a sudden, he falls down. The adiyavars rush and lift him and give him support.

Sundaramoorthiyar recollects the promise he has made to Sangiliyar!

     ******

On the outskirts of Thiruvotriyur…

One of the Adiyavars (seeing the blind Perumanar staggering to get up)

What a grave cruelty! How can a friend of Iraivan be in this condition?

Sundaramoorthiyar

Easan has taken away my eyesight to show that I am punished for breaking the promise I have made! Still, if I plead for mercy, will He not come to my help?

Looking in the direction of Thiruvotriyur temple, with his hands joined above his head, he sings passionately seeking mercy of Easan.

 Sundaramoorthiyar

அழுக்கு மெய்க்கொடு உன் திருவடி அடைந்தேன்

   அதுவும் நான் படப்பாலதொன்றானால்

 பிழுக்கை வாரியும் பால்ஒள்வார் அடிகேள்

   பிழைப்பன் ஆகிலும் திருவடிப்பிழையேன்

 வழுக்கி வீழினும் துருப்பெயரலல்லால்

    மற்று நான் அறியேன் மனமாற்றம்

 ஒழுக்க என் கண்ணுக்கு ஒரு மருந்து உரையாய்

    ஒற்றியூரெனும் ஊர் உறைவோனே!

I garbed Your sacred feet with my body soiled by lust. I deserve the punishment for the mistake I have committed. I know that I can attain Your grace only after I clear all my sins like one can get milk from the cow only after clearing the dung. Iraivane! Though I have sinned, I never forgot Your sacred feet! Though I have fallen down from the virtuous path, I know nothing except Your sacred name! Will You not tell me a medicine to regain the sight of my eye?

He sings many songs pleading to Easan with all his heart to forgive him and restore his vision. As he is not getting any response from Easan, he staggers to get up. An Adiyavar catches his hand and leads him.

Sundaramoorthiyar

Though I have pleaded to Easan of Otriyur, I have not regained my sight. I now accept that it is destined by  Easan!

With a broken heart he walks away staggering! Easan is equally anguished seeing his friend in distress!

   ****

The Adiyavars walk along taking Perumanar along and soon they reach Thirumullaivayil. He pleads to Easan in the temple by singing many songs in his praise and to have mercy on him. From there they arrive at Thiruvenbakkam.  The entire town is decorated to accord a grand welcome to the Perumanar. However they are shocked and distressed to see that Perumanar has gone blind. He is received with great honour and taken to the Sannadhi of Easan. Cupping both his hands in great reverence, Perumanar bows to Easan.

Perumanar

I sang pleading to You at Otriyur! Nothing happened. I accepted that my blindness is the act of Easan at Mullaivayil. I sang in praise of You pleading for mercy. You have not heard it, I presume! Here also I will sing Your praise! But are You here to hear my songs in a happy mood?

A divine voice is heard from the Sannadhi.

 Divine voice

Yes! I am here! Don’t go away!

Hearing the words of Easan as if He is talking to someone unknown, Sundaramoorthiyar is mentally shattered.  As he is about to fall, an adiyavar holds him and   a walking stick appears in his hand  to support himself and prevents his fall. Supporting himself by holding the stick, Sundaramoorthiyar starts singing looking in the direction of Sannadhi with his blinded eyes.  He sings many songs extolling His help and recollecting that He has said, “I am here! Don’t go away”. Disheartened, he comes out of the temple walking with the stick given by the grace of Easan.

   *****

Thiruvotriyur ….

The mansion of Sangiliyar…

 Sangiliyar is seated in the Puja room with tears flowing from her eyes.

Sangiliyar

Your friend has deserted me, breaking the promise he has made in front of You! Only because You came in my dream and praised his virtues and asked me marry him, I accepted him. You also said that I would live happily with him and complete the tasks destined for me in this birth!

A servant maid rushes in and informs that some adiyavars have come to meet her and give some information about Perumanar. She asks her to prepare for the conduct of padapujai of Adiyavars and rushes out to welcome them.  The adiyavars are highly pleased by her piety and bless her.

Sivanadiyar 

Sangiliyare! We have come here to inform you about the grave misfortune of Sundaramoorthiyar.

Hearing the words grave misfortune, she swoons. Her maids revive her by sprinkling water on her face.

Sivanadiyar 

After leaving you, Sundaramoorthiyar has started on his Yatra of sacred temples along with his retinue of Adiyavars. As he stepped out of the boundary of Thiruvotriyur, he lost his eye sight!

Sangiliyar (greatly perturbed)

Alas! How has gone blind?

Sivanadiyar 

He has attributed it as a punishment for breaking a promise made by him.

Sivanadiyar narrates the events at various temples where Perumanar has been pleading to Easan to restore his vision in vain.  Even though the pathigams he has sung will melt even the most stone-hearted people, Easan remains unmoved.  Only one person can free him from his distress! If you nullify the promise he has made to you, he will be relieved of his distress.

Sangiliyar

Aaha!   If I can be of help to my Perumanar by this act, I will do it immediately.

She rushes to the Sannadhi of Easan to plead to revoke the promise Perumanar has made to her. The adiyavars also follow her.

   *****

Guided by his retinue of adiyavars, Sundaramoorthiyar walks along with walking stick gifted by Easan as a support and reaches Pazahaiyarai. From there, he reaches Thiruvaalagadu, Thiruvooral on the way to Kanchi. He is received by the people of Kanchi with great honour and taken to the temple of Ekambaranathar. Folding his hands in great reverence, he prays to Easan with tears flowing from his eyes to restore his vision. Moved by his plight, Easan opens His eyes and a radiant emanates from there and strikes his left eye while the temple bells toll resoundingly on their own. Sundaranar regains his eyesight of his left eye. He starts singing in praise of Easan. Easan appears before him and Perumanar is highly elated and dances merrily on getting the darisanam of Easan. His followers are greatly moved seeing their Perumanar dancing away happily after a long, long time!

    *****

After staying in Kanchi for a few days, he starts his journey to Thiruvarur. As he is about to reach Thruvaduthurai, he falls sick. Somehow he manages to reach Thruvaduthurai and in the Sannadhi, he pleads to Easan to restore the vision of his right eye also. From there he reaches Thiruththruthi and Thiruvelvikkudi.  Overcome with mental and physical fatigue, he staggers and falls before reaching the Sannadhi. A divine voice is heard.

The Divine Voice    

Take a dip in the northern pond of the temple. You will be relieved of your distress!

His followers take him to the pond and to the chanting of panchaksharam by the adiyavars; Perumanar takes a dip in the pond. As he comes emerges out of the water, his body is relieved all the pains and regains the radiance as before. Perumanar jumps out with great gusto and sings in praise of Easan. From there, he reaches the outskirts of Thiruvarur along with his followers. He looks for the Gopuram of Thyagesar temple and casts his eye on the kalasam of the Gopuram. Prostrating in the direction of the temple, he rushes to the temple and reaches the Sannadhi. Standing in front of Easan, he sings in praise of Easan.  He again pleads to Easan to restore his vision of his right eye as he is distressed in not feasting on the beauty of Easan with both his eyes. He composes many songs extolling Easan and at the same time deprecating Him for His indifference in not restoring the vision in his right eye. Shedding copious tears, he pleads to Easan to say at least a word to comfort him. Realising that all the followers of Perumanar will be very much distressed if his appeal is not heard and acted upon, Easan raises His hand. The radiant rays from His compassionate palm restore the vision of Perumanar’s right eye immediately! Tears of joy flow from his eyes now!

   *****

The mansion of Paravayar ….

He retinue of Adiyavars of Perumanar are at the gate. Paravayar bows to them and says that it is a great blessing for her that so many of adiyavars have come to her house.  One of the adiyavars comes forward and informs that they have come from Thiruvotriyur. Paravayar gets visibly angry even hearing the name of Thiruvotriyur. The adiyavar then narrates all the incidences after Sundaramoorthiyar has left Thiruvarur, how he lost his sight after leaving Thiruvotriyur and how he has regained them due to compassion of Easan. He informs that Perumanar is at the Easan’s temple and all the people in around Thiruvarur are visiting him and seeking his darisanam and blessing. He further says that they have come to invite her to the temple as she has not come to see him on her own. He requests that being his wife, she may come to the temple and take him back to her mansion. Without giving them any response, Paravayar bangs the door closed on their face and goes inside the house.  Stung by her act, the adiyavars return to the temple and informs her anger to Sundaramoorthiyar. Extremely upset that she is angry with him, Perumanar takes a little time to regain his composure. Seeing a few women around there, he requests them to go to Paravayar’s mansion and speak to her on his behalf. They go and meet Paravayar and request her to accept Sundaramoorthiyar. Paravayar tells them that since he has married another woman at Thiruvotriyur forgetting that Easan Himself has got her married to him, she will never allow him to see her or touch her. She threatens to end her life if they insist on arguing with her any longer.   The women return to the temple and narrate her firm resolve to Perumanar. Perumanar returns to the madam and contemplates on Easan.

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

Emperumane! All these things are happening because of my acts in my previous birth! That Paravai is angry with me itself will kill me. If she does not change her animosity towards me by tonight and accepts me, I will bang my head against this wall of the madam and die here itself.

 Hearing his pleas, Easan appears before him and agrees to go as a messenger to Paravai Nachchiyar to pacify her. He walks towards the mansion of Paravayar in the garb an Anthanar followed by Nandiyar and Sivaganas. It is almost midnight. As He taps on the latched door of the house, Paravayar asks as who it is. He answers in the tone of the Gurukkal of the temple to open the door. She rushes and opens the door and sees the imposing Easan standing at the door. She does not see Nandi and others who are behind Easan.

Paravayar asks the reason for visiting her at the middle of the night when the whole town is asleep! Easan replies that He will give her the Eason for his coming if she agrees to accept what He is going to say. Paravayar is firm that she will accept or reject what he is going to say based only on what he is going to convey. She requests that He may convey whatever he wants if he so desires. Easan tells her to admit Nambi Aarooran in her house. Paravayar informs Easan that she will not allow him to touch her as he has married and lived with another woman. She angrily tells Easan that this is not the proper time to come and convey this message. Easan tell her that as He has come personally to ask her, she must end her anger and forgive the mistakes of Nambi Aarooran and accept him. Paravayar is firm that she will agree to let him enter her house and tells Easan that he may go back. Easan comes out of the house and steps down on to the street. As Nandi and Sivaganas start to follow Him, they are told to remain there only and He goes towards the madam. As the imposing and radiant figure of Easan is walking away in the garb of an Anthanar, Paravayar sees Nandiyar and Sivaganas standing in front of her mansion. She realises that it was Easan who has come to plead on behalf of Sundaramoorthiyar. Heavily perturbed for turning Easan away and not realising the greatness of Perumanar, she feels miserable. At the same time Easan informs Sundaramoorthiyar that he could not convince Paravayar to accept him. Perumanar again pleads to Easan to go again to convince her. To remove the distress of His friend Easan again goes to Paravayar’s mansion. This time Paravayar is immensely happy to see Iraivan at her house and agrees to forgive Sundaramoorthiyar. Easan returns to madam and informs Perumanar that he can safely go to Paravayar’s house. Perumanar rushes there and is welcomed by the maids of Paravayar and taken inside.

    *****

Thirupperumangalam…

 Being Tiruvadirai, there is surging crowd in the Easan’s temple chanting “Hara, Hara, Siva, Siva” awaiting their turn in the long queue for darisanam. White flags with emblem of Nandi are flying sky high everywhere. Clad in colourful festive clothes, people are hurrying to the temple carrying items for Puja creating a happy ambience. Kaligamar is also standing in the long queue among the people. Even in that vast crowd, he could be singled out due to his commanding stature. Slowly the crowd inches forward to the Sannadhi.  Easan too is perhaps awaiting His adiyavar! Kaligamar reaches the Sannadhi with his palms cupped in great devotion.

 Kaligamar (to himself)

 Iraiva! Emperumane! While one set of people in this world deny You due to ignorance, the others who have realised You have only notion that is everything is Sivam alone! You   also at times come down to earth and enact miraculous events… Just now news has come from Thruvennainallur … You had come there in the guise of an old Brahmin and proved to the people that Nambi Aarooran was your slave only to make him Your friend ultimately.  Though he abused you with harsh words, You even called him as “Vanthondar” and granted him the power of composing and singing hymns by giving him a lead “Piththa” for the very first song. I am spellbound hearing this episode. I don’t know from where I can get an answer for question that is nagging me!  Is your enactment of winning the case against Aarooran to prove Your prowess or to prorogate the glory of Your adiyavar? 

He reaches the Sannadhi and is enchanted by the beautifully decorated Easan. He bows down in great piety and extends his hands to receive Thiruneeru from the Gurukkal. Gurukkal looks at him in great compassion.

Gurukkal

You do not have to search for the answers for your question anywhere else! I will   give you the answers Myself! Iraivan is not obliged to prove His presence to anyone! Those who deny Him, will continue to say so till they themselves get into some entanglement. So what? Let them keep saying what they want. “Sarvam Sivamayam” (Everything is part of and full of Sivam) Sri Rudram says the same thing.  The One who created the entire universe, the One who cannot be contained in the whole of this universe can be bound within the heart of an Adiyavar! Therefore the most exalted is the glory of Adiyavars! Easan comes down and sets his feet on earth only to spread their fame to the people at large! 

He hands over thiruneeru with a smile.

Kaligamar (in amazement)

How did you know the questions which were in my mind? Still, you have given the most appropriate answers. As the Adiyavars are of such immense greatness, I will, from now onwards, make it my prime duty to be at their service.

He accepts the Thiruneeru happily and turns back to leave.

Easan (in the guise of Gurukkal all along)

I will let the world to know of your fame also one day!

Easan vanishes.

As he comes out of the Sannadhi, he sees the Gurukkal entering in great haste. He wonders as to    who has given him Thiruneeru and cleared his doubts! He looks back and the Gurukkal who has given him Thiruneeru is not there!

Easan is seated in the Sannathi in all His glory!

   ******

From that day, it becomes a routine for many groups of Adiyavars to come to his house for food every day. Years roll by.  The generosity of Kaligamar and his unblemished service to adiyavars spreads and reaches Thiruvarur also.

One day..

As Sundaramoorthiyar is singing in praise of Easan in the sannathi   of Aarooran, a few adiyavars reach there. As he finishes his songs and comes out, the adiyavars also follow him and pay their regards.  

Sundaramoorthiyar

My salutations to all of you! May I know from where you are all coming from?

Adiyavar

Our respectful salutations to the dearest friend of Easan! We are all coming from Thirupperumangalam.

Sundaramoorthiyar (excited)

  Did you say Thirupperumangalam? Is Kaligamar doing well there?

Adiyavar

Kaligamar is doing very well. He is at all times thinking of you only!

Sundaramoorthiyar

Is he remembering me all the time?  How blessed am I? I am very eager to go and meet him at Thirupperumangalam.  I know not when my wish will be fulfilled

 Adiyavar

 You are a great and bosom friend of Easan who Himself hailed you as his dear friend.  To ensure your dignity not getting tarnished, Easan produced a shower of rice paddy at Thiruvarur. When you were in dire need of funds, He transformed the clay bricks into gold and gave them to you.  There are innumerable such instances proclaiming your glory. Is it appropriate for such great man like you to go all the way to Thirupperumangalam to see him?   Is he not obliged to come here to pay   his regards to you instead?

 Sundaramoorthiyar (humbly)

 No.  You are wrong.  Your views are erroneous. Perhaps you are not aware of the greatness of Adiyavar Kaligamar! He considers and greets any adiyavar who comes to Thirupperumangalam as “Siva” if he is a male and “Ammai” if female and does Padapujai. I consider myself very insignificant compared to him.

Adiyavar (not satisfied) 

 Does one become superior just by hailing   males as “Siva” and females as “Annai’?  

He looks up at Sundaranar in trepidation as to what he is going to say further.

 Sundaramoorthiyar

Recollect what Sambandar Peruman as a child of three years uttered after drinking the “Milk of Wisdom” yielded by Annai Herself!  He hailed Him as the “Thief who has robbed his heart”!  That is only to highlight that Easan resides in the heart and mind of adiyavar without even perceived by him. Having realised that Easan is residing in the heart of any adiyavar, Kaligamar very aptly considers all male adiyavars as Easan and all female adiyavars as Annai. Therefore he is far more superior to all of us.

To bring the discussion to an end, Sundaranar shouts the panchaksharam “Om Namasivaya”.

All the adiyavars assembled at Thirumangalam repeat the same after him loudly.

      ****

  Thirupperumangalam…

 After eating sumptuously, adiyavars start leaving one by one after blessing Kaligamar. One of the adiyavars keeps waiting till all others leave to have a talk with Kaligamar.

Adiyavar

Kaligamare! I am pleased by your hospitality. By hailing all adiyavars as ‘Siva’ and ‘Annai’ pleasingly, you have captured a high corner of Sundaramoorthiyar’s heart! He, who was hailed by Easan as “Nanba” (friend), is wishing to come to this village to meet with you.  Long live your fame!

Kaligamar

Aaha! What penance I might have done to hear such news from you!

He prostrates hailing the adiyavar   as “Siva” and catches his feet in veneration.

Kaligamar (continuing)

It should have been me to go to Thiruvarur to have his darisanam. My heart is yearning for that auspicious day.    We all know how Easan came to his rescue when Viranmindar ran after him to chop him with his axe due to his misunderstanding that Sundaranar failed to pay regards to adiyavars. Easan took him by his and ran out of the sanctum sanctorum by creating an opening on the southern wall to save His friend   from the wrath of Viranmindar. He could have stopped Viranmindar on his tracks by just His glance only. Why he didn’t do that? It was to show to the world that He resides in the heart of Viranmindar also.  Easan enacted this drama only bring fame to both these adiyavars.  So the proper protocol is that I must go to Thiruvarur to pay my respects to this great adiyavar.

Adiyavar

I have a doubt which is nagging me for a long time.   Only you may kindly clarify it.

Kaligamar (humbly)

Adiyavare! Please go ahead!

Adiyavar

You are born in the clan of ‘Yeyarkon’ who have the right to lead the Army of the Chozha kings as their Senapati. Why have you shirked that responsibility and doing service to Adiyavars as their servitor?

Kaligamar

Many people born in my clan have been in the service of Chozha kings as their Senapatis. Somehow, I was not drawn to lead that life.  Instead I was determined to remain in the service of adiyavars.

In Thiruvattanam, when Sundaramoorthiyar was sleeping, Iraivan placed His sacred feet as a crown on his head! I am yearning whether I will also be blessed like that by Easan’s grace one day!  I do not know whether my craving will be fulfilled or not!  By having the darisanam of Sundaramoorthiyar who has been blessed by Easan, I intend to at least abate this craving.

Adiyavar

When you have so much of respect and esteem for Sundaramoorthiyar, why haven’t you tried to go to Thiruvarur to see him?

Kaligamar (firmly)

I cannot even imagine Adiyavars coming to Thirupperumangalam going away without seeing me unfed and unhappy. Sivan resides in the Jeevan of Adiyavar.   As hurting Sivan is against my tenets, It is impossible for me to leave this place and go anywhere leave alone Thiruvarur.

Adiyavar (proudly)

I am amazed by your great devotion of Sundaramoorthiyar and your total dedication in the service of Adiyavars. Long live your devotion! Long live your name and fame!

He blesses Kaligamar and takes his leave.

As He steps out of the house…

Easan in the guise of Adiyavar all along (to Himself)

Kaligamare! I have no words to praise you!    You yourself are not aware that Me, the very Creator of this universe is keep meeting you time and again! How will this town know of it?  The time is nearing when not only this town but also the entire world will recognise your fame!

Easan then vanishes from there.

     ******

Thirupperumangalam..

Kaligamar is standing in the Sannathi of Easan looking glum.  There is not much crowd in the temple that day and he is alone in the Sannathi. Easan comes out of the sanctum sanctorum in the guise of Gurukkal. Seeing him Kaligamar gets even sadder.

Gurukkal (with a mild laugh)

Kaligamare! What is the matter?  Is the heavy burden in your heart making you morose?

Kaligamar

Some time ago, you answered the various questions that were troubling my mind without me narrating them! Are you not able to discern the questions vexing my mind today?

Gurukkal

You have perhaps burdened your mind with your opinions on Sundaramoorthiyar! Am I correct or not?

He laughs lightly again.

Kaligamar (amazed)

You have astonished me again by correctly stating what is burdening my mind!

Gurukkal (laughing & enthusiastically)

Let us see to it as to what is weighing your mind is unloaded.

Kaligamar

If some load is carried on our head, it can be unloaded easily and kept down. How can one unload what is burdening his mind?

 Gurukkal

 If you open up your mind and speak without reservation, it will get off automatically. Tell Me! What is troubling your mind?

Kaligamar

It has been my obsession for long to meet Sundaramoorthiyar in person and fall on his feet to seek his blessings. I used to be delighted whenever I received any news about him. But the news I heard yesterday has shocked me like a thunderbolt. 

When Sundaramoorthiyar came to Aarur on the invitation of Iraivan, he was given a grand reception by   the people of the town as ordered by Easan. When he was living there for a short while, he cast his eyes on a woman belonging to Rudra Kanikayar named Paravai. Easan Himself came down to get the consent of that woman and made further arrangements for their wedding. Though I was perturbed by Adiyavar Peruman marrying a Kanikayar, I reconciled due to Easan having arranged that marriage.  Again, when he went to Thruvotriyur, he fell in love with a girl named Sangili and married her with the help of Easan. When I heard this news, my esteem for him came down a notch below. When he left her too to return to Thiruvarur, he lost his eye sight. With Easan’s grace he regained his sight in his left eye at Kanchi and in his right eye at Thiruvarur. When he regained his health, he started his bad old ways. He sent some adiyavars to Paravai so that she may accept him. Angered by his act, Paravai shut the door on him. He again begged Easan to go to her as his emissary.  After Easan pacified her, he could unite with her. Why did he send Easan on such errands in the middle of the night?  Just to satiate his carnal hunger! I am not able to stand this act of Sundaramoorthiyar. This act of his has thrown into dust   the respect and regards I had for him all these years! It is disgusting even to think that I have been yearning to meet a person of such ignoble acts.

I have narrated what is burdening my mind. I am anguished as to how to get rid of it. 

Gurukkal

Do you know what is ‘destiny?  This is what it is! What Sundaramoorthiyar will be doing in this birth has been already destined by Easan! “Sivan Siththam yaar arivaar”? Who knows the mind of Easan?

Kaligamar (angrily)

Don’t try to fool me by giving this false excuse of “destiny”.  I will never ever pardon Sundaran for his atrocious act.  

Gurukkal

There is no justification for your anger.

Kaligamar (surprised)

How do you say that there is no justification?

Gurukkal

Let us suppose you have friend.  Will he go to the street of Kanikayar to meet your lady love to make a peace on your behalf, if you tell him?

Kaligamar (beaming with pride)

I am not hungry for sex like Sundaran.  Such an eventuality will never happen to me as I am a firm believer of good conduct. So I have no answer for your question.

Gurukkal (with a smile)

That is fine. I will tell the answer myself! If your friend is virtuous, he will not walk the street of Kanikayar at the middle of night for his own self. Therefore, the question of going on behalf of his friend does not arise. But Iraivan has gone to help his friend. Why?  He is the creator of all the worlds and all the creatures in them. In this world, which is His creation, He can go wherever He pleases. No one can place any restriction as to where He can and where he cannot go!  Only in our eyes, the people who reside there are Kanikayar.  As for Iraivan... They are also of His creation only. He sees everyone of His creation as equal. For Him, there is no one who is higher and no one who is lower...

Suppose a man returns home after a long absence. His wife refuses to open the door suspecting his fidelity. Where will he go at the dead of night? If he is unable to enter his own house, will not the villagers poke fun of him? Will he live with that shame?  Will the One who is a role model for friendship allow such an eventuality?   If his friend says that he will give up his life in case he is unable to join her that night then going about as an emissary as his friend to pacify her is acceptable and not unacceptable.

He is the One who will fulfill the wishes of anyone who is praying to Him for the same.  Will He not accede to the request of His adiyavar?   Easan went as an intermediary to remove her annoyance and unite them only to propagate the glory of both of them. Your anger against Sundaramoorthiyar is because of the high affection and loyalty you have of him. Get rid of your anger.  The burden in your heart will vanish. 

He looks at Kaligamar in silence.

 Kaligamar

Gurukkale! I am unable to accept your justification. Involving Easan, to whom he became a slave in Vennainallur, for his immoral acts, is unpardonable for me. If see him anywhere, I do not know what I will do to him!  

 He leaves the sannathi in great fury.

Easan (in the guise of Gurukkal with great compassion)

Kaligama! It is time that your fame is made known to the world!

 Kaligamar however, rushes out without hearing his words.

    ******

Thiruvarur....

Sundaramoorthiyar is praying to Easan in the sannathi.  A few adiyavars who have come from Thirupperumangalam pay their respects to him.

Sundaramoorthiyar

Is Kaligamar keeping well at Thirupperumangalam?

 Not knowing the reason for their hesitation to offer a reply, he continues.

Sundaramoorthiyar (enthusiastically)

I am also starting off on a religious tour very soon.  I will go to Thirupperumangalam also and meet with Kaligamar.

Adiyavar (cautiously)

We have also rushed here for that very reason.  For the time being, it will be better if you do not go there.

Sundaramoorthiyar is taken aback by this warning.

Sundaramoorthiyar

Whosoever meets me compel me to visit his native place! I am surprised as well sad to hear that you have come all the way only to tell me not to visit your town!  May I know the reason for it?

Adiyavar

You must please pardon us for our impoliteness. How blessed will we be to have your sacred feet touch our soil? Unfortunately, the conditions prevailing there at this moment is not favourable for your visit.

Sundaramoorthiyar

I am unable to understand what you want to imply. Please tell me in detail.

Adiyavar

Kaligamar is very angry with you. All these days, he has been eagerly waiting for your arrival. But now he gets highly furious even if someone mentions your name. We are scared even to ask him the reason for his animosity towards you.  It will be, therefore, better if you do not visit Thirupperumangalam till his anger subsides.

The adiyavars leave the sannathi and go away. Sundaranar looks at Easan decorated and seated there in all   glory.

Sundaramoorthiyar (praying)

Easane! Emperumane! I am very sad to know that Yeyarkon Kaligamar is angry with me. You only saved me when Viranmindar in great wrath came to attack me.  Likewise, if you remove the animosity towards me from Yeyarkon now, I will come to Thirupperumangalam and have your darisanam there.

Easan raises His hand and at that very moment at Thirupperumangalam...

As the Adiyavars after their sumptuous meal leave the house of Kaligamar blessing him, a sharp pain emanates in his abdomen. Unable to bear the pain, Kaligamar falls to the ground shouting “Easane, Emperumane.” Adiyavars rush to him greatly perturbed.

    ******

Thirupperumangalam

A huge crowd of adiyavars and other people has assembled in front of Kaligamar’s house. All are looking highly forlorn. The Vaidhyar comes out of the house and soon surrounded by the eager crowd to hear him.

Vaidhyar

Kaligamar is having a minor stomach ailment. I have given him medicine blessed by my Guru. If he takes bland food avoiding salt, chili and tamarind for forty eight days, he will get completely cured.

Heaving a sigh of relief all of them disperse from there.

   *****

Unable bear the severity of the pain, Kaligamar lets out an anguished cry. His wife and other relatives are in tears seeing his suffering. The village elders come and Kaligamar’s wife welcomes them and gets them seated. They take a look at Kaligamar who has become skeletal. The stomach pain is so severe that he cannot even straighten up and lying hunched. Tears swell up in their eyes.

The Village Elder

What does the Vaidhyar say? He is going from bad to worse every day.

His Wife

As directed by Vaidhyar, we are giving him only bland food. He also takes the medicine. The pain does not seem to subside at all. He is not able to eat even a morsel of solid food.  We have to make the food watery so that he can drink it.

The Village Elder

The ailment affecting the Perumanar is a serious one. It is called ‘Soolainoi”. The pain will be unbearable all the time. If the local Vaidhyar is not able to cure him, you can think of getting some one from outside. It is a pity that Perumanar who has been feeding adiyavars with sumptuous and tasty meals is unable to consume even a morsel of food!

 His Wife

Your suggestion is very good. I will send my people to get Vaidhyar from outside immediately.

The people who have come get up to depart. Kaligamar tries to speak to them but the pain throttles his throat and he cannot utter even a word. A painful groan escapes from him making the visitors deeply perturbed. Unable to bear his agonising state, they leave without giving a second look.

    *****

In the next few days many   Vaidhyars come to diagnose and prescribe different medicines. They prove to be ineffective and only seem to increase his agony. One day early in the morning, Kaligamar without taking anyone as help, he proceeds to the temple limping his way and reaches the sannathi. The Gurukkal is not to be seen there. Cupping his palms, Kaligamar bows before Easan. As he tries to straighten up, his pain becomes unbearable and so he remains bent and could only raise his eyes to see Easan.

Kaligamar (pleading)

Iraiva! Have you no sympathy for me still?

A bright Jyothi radiates from the sanctum sanctorum. A divine voice also emanates from there.

The Divine Voice

Yeyarkone! Your disease will not be cured!

Kaligamar looks up to Easan shattered on hearing these words,.

Kaligamar (overcome with emotion)

Have You   come here for this poor soul? How great is your love! But Your sacred tongue has uttered that my disease will not be cured! Is there anything impossible for You?

Easan

Your disease is because of your fury on Sundaran!  Sundaran alone can cure you of this disease!

 Kaligamar (imploring)

My grandfather, my father, I and my progeny have all been your humble devotees.  We bow to you considering that You alone is Iraivan every day without fail. Will Your ‘Vanthondan’ (rogue servitor)   who sent You on base errands, be able to cure me?

 Easan

Isn’t that you got angry with Vanthondan only?

Kaligamar 

Your flag flies high everywhere in this universe! Who can know of Your deed You are proud of? You keep adding fame to your Vanthondan who has sprouted like a venomous mushroom. But You cannot cure me, who has surrendered totally unto You! If it is to be cured only by Vanthondan, let it remain uncured! I will rather endure the pain howsoever it becomes severe than even casting my eye on your Vanthondan.

Deeply saddened he comes out of the sannathi and leaves the temple.  He sees the Gurukkal coming in.

The Gurukkal is in tears.

   ********

At that very moment ...in Thiruvarur...

 Sundaramoorthiyar is standing in the Sannathi of Easan. A radiant glow erupts in the sanctum sanctorum and a divine voice is heard.

 Easan’s divine voice

  Sundara... I am unable to bear my dear friend Kaligamar suffering in pain due to Soolainoi.  His fury against you has turned into this disease and hurts him very badly.  You proceed immediately to Thirupperumangalam and cure the adiyavar of his ailment.

 Adhering to the orders of Easan, Sundaramoorthiyar starts his journey immediately joined by Thirukkoottathar. The retinue goes chanting aloud the Panchakshara mantram and the sound of “Om Namasivaya’ reverberates everywhere.

     *****

The news of Sundaramoorthiyar coming to meet with Yeyarkon Kaligamar spreads through the town.   The whole town gets busy in making preparations for giving a festive welcome to Sundaramoorthiyar. Welcoming arches with plantain trees and colourful buntings are erected all along the toads. Wearing new clothes men, women and children assemble for welcoming the Perumanar. The Vedic experts of the temple stand at the entrance to the town along with musicians to welcome him with auspicious music and due respect.

As he enters the town, his arrival is heralded by the blowing of horns and playing of other musical instruments. As they near the house of Kaligamar, his wife rushes to him.

Kaligamar’s wife 

En Iraivane! How long you have been waiting to have the darisanam of Sundaramoorthiyar! To fulfill your wish, Adiyavar Peruman is coming to our house to see you. I also heard that he is coming here to cure you of your Soolainoi. I have kept all the things ready at the entrance to welcome him befittingly.

I have kept the lamps lighted and got the things ready for performing Padapujai. I am truly blessed to be your wife to get such a noble opportunity.  It is only because that I am married to you that Adiyavar Peruman is getting welcomed by me as he is coming to see you! I am truly blessed.

She sheds tears of joy bowing to her husband.

Kaligamar (angrily) 

It is not acceptable to me that the man who lost his mind due to infatuation stepping in to my house.

 Kaligamar’s wife (taken aback)

Service to Adiyavar is Service to Easan Himself!  You address adiyavars as ‘Siva’ if they are males and ‘Ammai’ if they are females as Sivan resides in their ‘Seevan’.  How could you oppose    Sundaramoorthiyar, the one who gave us the ‘Thiruththondar Thogai’, who brings fame to all adiyavars, and who is coming to our house on his own from entering our house?    

Kaligamar

Before that Vanthondan comes and cures me of this mysterious Soolainoi, I will slash and throw away my intestine.

He grabs a piercing knife nearby, slashes his stomach with it, and tears of his intestine and throes it away. There blood splattering everywhere.  In a shudder, his body falls to the ground and he dies.

Seeing the happenings in front of her eyes in a fleet of a second, his wife stands frozen.

Hearing the sound of conch shell at the entrance of her house, Kaligamar’s wife hiding her sorrow rushes there where Sundaramoorthiyar has arrived.  He is welcomed by other ladies with due respects. As Sundaramoorthiyar stands on the golden Tambalam, Kaligamar’s wife washes his feet and does the Padapujai.  He is seated on the special seat and she stands doing archanai with flowers.

Sundaranar is shocked to see when her sadness bursts out involuntarily.

Sundaramoorthiyar

Ammaye! I have come here to cure Kaligamar of his Soolainoi as ordained by Easan. Come! Let us go to him.

As he steps inside, he is shocked to see the blood soaked Kaligamar lying dead with his intestine and a blood soaked piercing knife lying on the floor. As he picks up that knife, tears flood his cheeks.

Sundaramoorthiyar

My friend! Did you choose this as the easy way to end your agony due to your anger against me? Before your life reaches the sacred feet of Kailaynathan, I will reach there and meet you at His sacred feet!

As he raises the piercing knife and tries to stab himself at his stomach to end his life, there is a sudden reverberating sound of conch shells. Kaligamar rises resurrected by the grace of Easan. He grabs the knife from Sundaramoorthiyar’s hand who has tried to stab himself.

 Seeing all these miracles happening in front of their eyes, the adiyavars raise their voice chanting ‘Om Namasivaya” repeatedly.

Easan appears there with Annai on His Nandi vahanam to the chanting of Veda mantras.

Easan

Yeyarkone!  Though you were very eager to meet Sundaran for a long time, you despised him for sending Me on an errand and as a consequence suffered from Soolainoi. You stabbed your stomach and tore of your intestine and killed yourself when you came to know that only Sundaran could cure of your agony. No words will suffice for praising your fame!  Becoming your friend, Aarooran also attains high glory! You will spend some time with him happily and you will join me with your pious wife Mangayarkarasi   in due course of time.  Your fame will remain as long as this earth remains. Whosoever worships Me will worship you as well.   

Sundaramoorthiyar, Kaligamar, his wife and other relatives and the assembled public bow to Easan and Annai while the heavens shower flowers from above.

   *******

 Parasuramakshetram…

Kodungalur, a town which also goes by the name Mahodhai…

In the Sannathi of Sivan temple of that town, an assemblage of people is seeking the blessings of Easan.

Gurukkal is conducting the Deepaaradhanai. Overcome with devotion, the devotees lose themselves in the darisanam of Easan. Lifting both their hands above their heads in supplication, they loudly chant the panchaksharam. Iraivan is seated there highly pleased. One of the devotees looks very wealthy.  Silken garments covering his lower and upper body, golden necklaces around his neck the number of gem-studded rings in his fingers proclaim his affluence. The scent he has smeared on him makes the entire place fragrant.  Next to him stands a farmer. The single tattered cloth he is wearing around his waist declares his acute poverty. A lean and thin stomach, tired eyes and yet a brawny body of his makes it obvious that he is a hardworking farmer.   

The farmer (praying silently)

Iraiva! Easane! You grant your ardent devotees whatever they seek from You! Aren’t You aware of my needs? Have I earned anything by my hard work? Why don’t You give plenty of gold and gems to me, an ardent devotee who thinks of You all the time?

At the same time…

The rich man (praying silently)

Iraiva!  You have blessed me with good fortune and given me gold and gems in plenty. I make more fortune with what I am having. I have come here to seek more gold from You. Please grant my wish!

Iraivan hears the pleas of both devotees. He decides to grant their wish!

When the farmer comes out of the temple he is met by two persons.

One of them to the farmer

Seerala! We have been looking for you quite some time. You have to reap the paddy and bundle the hay. It will be a ten-day job. Will you take it on?

Seeralan

Definitely! I am extremely grateful to you and to my Easan for providing me work. 

He looks back towards the temple and folds his hands in reverence to Easan as a mark of thanksgiving. He goes along with them.

The rich man at about the same time….

He goes around the temple and returns home. Just before he steps into his house, he stumbles on something on the ground. Looking down, he observes that it is the rim of some vessel. Curious, he digs down and pulls out a copper pitcher with a lid on it. Prying open the lid, he is amazed to find that pitcher filled with golden nuggets.    Profusely thanking his Easan for having heard his plea and granting him this treasure, he enters his house and keeps the pitcher in his treasure chest. 

     *******

Thirukkailayam …

Iraivan is seated sporting a gentle smile…

Naradar stands in front of him with his hands cupped in reverence.

He looks at Iraivan confused…

Easan

 What is the issue Narada? Having come here to ask Me something, but you are looking at Me dumbfounded! What is the matter?

Naradar

I am unable to understand You!

No one can know the mind of Easan (Sivan Siththam yaar arivaar?) is a popular saying.  It is very much true!

Easan

They call me Sivan as well as Piththan (madcap)! It is but natural that my acts appear abnormal! Aren’t you implying that?

Naradar (highly perturbed)

Siva… Siva… How dare I commit a sacrilege of Siva in His sannidhanam? I just witnessed your grant of gifts to two of your earnest devotees. I could not control my emotions and so I ran here.

Easan

So, you have come to seek an explanation to justify my action! Is that right?

Naradar (a little embarrassed)

Yes! That is true.  There is not an iota of difference in the devotion of   the rich man and the poor farmer towards You. They are well aware that it is You who is behind every happening in this world. The poor man seeks a little gold to overcome his poverty and hardship. The rich man asks for gold to make more fortune, not satisfied with what he already has. He lives in luxury on others’ toil. As if what he already has is insufficient, you gave him a pitcher of golden nuggets. For the poor farmer, you ensured he gets only work for another ten days! Why have you shown this partiality? You claim that you guard Your devotees as if they are Your eyes!  Would You apply butter to one of the eyes and a burning lime paste to the other?

Easan (still in his mild smile)

What would you have done if you were in My place?

Naradar

Though I might not have given a pitcher of gold coins to the poor farmer, I probably would have given a few gold coins. From the rich man, I would have taken back a lot of gold coins from him as he is already having enough of it.

Easan

Very well! Tomorrow both of them will be coming to My Sannathi and replenish their request for gold. You grant them the boons as you desire!

Naradar

Aaha! I will be very much at peace if injustice is nullified! I will reach the sannathi when they come there tomorrow.

He vanishes from there chanting ‘Sivaya Nama, Sivaya Nama’.

Next day… the same temple …. At about the same time…

As the Gurukkal conducts Deepaaradhanai, both the farmer and the rich man pray to Easan cupping their palms above their head in reverence and repeat their same wishes, the farmer asking for a few golden nuggets and the rich man asking for more gold to increase his fortune.

Naradar looks at Easan and Easan nods His head in approval.

The farmer and the rich man come out of the temple. The farmer, seeing something glittering in the morning sun on his path bends to find that they are gold coins. Quickly picking them up, he profusely thanks Easan for having heard his prayer.

Naradar (to himself)

What an irony! It is I who have given him the gold coins but it Is Easan who is earning his gratitude!

Easan laughs!

The rich man reaches home and opens his treasure chest only to find not only the pitcher he got the previous day but also few more pitchers of gold coins missing from there.

The rich man (in anger)

Has Easan cheated me by giving me one and taking away few more pitchers?

Naradar (to himself)

Thank heavens! He doesn’t know that it is I who has taken away his pitchers and not Easan, otherwise he would have blown my head off!

Easan laughs again.

     *******

Feeling satisfied by his work, Naradar is about to vanish from there. Easan stops him in his tracks…

Easan

What is this? Where are you planning to go?

Naradar

The job for which I have come is completed. I have rectified your mistake and so I have no further work here. That is why I am leaving.

Easan (showing great annoyance)

What do you mean? You landed here suddenly. You found fault with my award to my devotees. You said that you would rectify my mistake and did whatever you wanted.  Now you say that you want to leave.  What is this?

Naradar is taken aback by Easan’s annoyance. 

Naradar (to himself)

I did what you failed to do. Is that a crime?

Easan (still annoyed)

Narada! I know what you have been thinking.  How can you leave before completing the work you have started?

Naradar (confused)

I have done what I wanted to do and the work has been completed. You are telling me that I have started something. What is that I have started?

Easan

 Your allegation is that I bestow fortune to an idle rich man rather than to a hardworking poor man.  How can you depart without finding an answer for that?

Naradar (still confused)

Iraiva! Please tell me what I am supposed to do!

Easan

Just observe the results of your actions. You will then understand!

Naradar (thinking)

Why have I got myself involved into this unwanted work?

He comes out from the heavens.

He finds Seeralan walking enthusiastically. He goes near him.

Seeralan is stopped by the two men who promised him work the previous day.

One of the two men

 Seerala! The harvesting of paddy is yet to start. Where are you going?

Seeralan

 My Good luck! I am very fortunate today.  From now on I need not have to labour in the fields. Even if I am not at works, I have enough to take care of my needs for an year. Go and find some unfortunate one to do your harvesting work. I take your leave now.

Both of them are surprised to see his arrogance.

One of the two men

What has happened to him all of a sudden? Trusting him, we have not engaged anyone else. Our paddy will go waste if we cannot get it harvested immediately.

The Other man (running ahead and blocking Seeralan) 

Seerala! Stop! Please listen to me and then go. Do you know how much of effort and how many people are involved for a handful of food for a man? First and foremost, the seeds have to be accumulated. This involves checking many bags of paddy and selecting grains which are not damaged. These seeds are to be preserved for the next season. The selected seeds are to be protected from attack from insects, rodents, and birds and saved from elements of nature like earth, wind, rain and fire. On the onset of rains, the field is to be ploughed. The nursery is to be prepared and the seeds are sown and watered. After they grow, they have to be bundled and planted in the main field. The field is to be watered and de-weeding has to be carried out continuously. Once the crop is matured, it has to be safeguarded from birds and cattle. When it ripened it must be harvested quickly. The produce is cleaned to remove chaff and filled in bags. It is then sold to the Vanikan. This is what people buy. After pounding it and cleaning it, they cook the rice for eating. Now do you understand how much of effort is required to give a handful of food? If people like you stop working just because you have stumbled on a fortune, how will the people get their food?  We owe our existence to the farmer! Out of the three agencies of creation, preservation and destruction, the farmers carry out the first two.  They are like the backbone of the country.  If you cease to work it will only result in the last activity of destruction.

Seeralan

You speak as if the whole world will come to stand still because of me!

The Other man

Yes! It is true. If hundreds of you act like this it will happen one day.

Seeralan

I don’t understand what you say. Please don’t squabble with me unnecessarily and go away.

Sadly, both of them depart from there.

At about the same time…

The rich man is seated in his palatial house. In front of him stand two cultivators.  One of them gives ten full and one eighth of a varahan. The rich man accepts it with an infuriated face.

One of the cultivators (pleading)

Ayya! As agreed to earlier we are repaying the loan of ten varahans with an interest of an eighth of a varahan. Due to grace of God, the harvest is plentiful. Since you gave us monetary help at the right time, we have been able to get some profit. With that money we have purchased some more land. To cultivate this land we need at least thirty varahans. If you give us loan at the time of tilling season, it will be of

immense help to us!

 The rich man

I am very happy. However, the interest rate of one eighth for ten varahans is no longer applicable. If you can give half varahan for each varahan, I give you as loan we may continue our talk.

The Cultivator (butting in)

What?  Half a varahan as interest for one varahan! Our family will be ruined at this rate of interest.

The rich man

There is no other way to make up for what has slipped away!

The Cultivator

I don’t understand what you are implying.

The rich man (in a strict tone)  

There is no need for you to know. If you want money, you have to abide by the rate of interest I have specified that is half a varahan for one; then we can sit and discuss. Otherwise you may all leave.

The cultivators are baffled as they have never heard him speak so sternly. 

The Cultivator

Is this rate of interest only for us or is it applicable to everyone in the village?

The rich man

Even if the Easan comes and asks for loan, the rate of interest will be the same!

The Cultivator (pleading)

 Ayya! There are thousands of households who are depending on you for financial support in the form of loan. Where will they all go? How the agriculture work will commence? The whole thing will come to a standstill!

The rich man

So be it! The loss is not mine!

The Cultivator

I don’t follow what you say!

They are baffled as the rich man refuses to elaborate. Naradar is equally baffled!

    *********

Thirukkailayam…

Easan

What you have to say now, Narada?

Naradar

You must pardon me, your servant!  Not realising that whatever is given or taken away is only for the welfare of this universe, I have found fault with Your judgments! Easane! Emperumane!  I also realised that everything happens as per Sivan’s will. Please permit me to depart!

 As he tries to leave Easan Stops him.

Easan

Narada! What you have started has not yet finished! How can you leave without witnessing the outcome of your whole drama?

Naradar (taken aback)

I have done all wrong! What is still left over?

Easan

You come to Kodungalur sannathi tomorrow. You will get the clarification!

Easan laughs and Naradar leaves confused.

He keeps worrying the whole night and is anxiously waiting to see what is going to unfold the next morning.

Naradar (to himself)

I don’t know what will happen in the sannathi! Will Easan take back the gold coins given by me from the farmer? Or is he going to return the vanished pitchers of gold coins to the rich man?  Let both of them come to the sannathi and let me watch what is going to happen.

It is day break now.

Naradar quickly reaches the temple and enters the sannathi.  The Gurukkal conducts the puja as usual and does the Deepaaradhanai. The assembled people chant ‘Sivaya Nama’ and Easan grants them their wishes as appropriate. Afterwards all of them come out of the sannathi. Naradar searches for the farmer and the rich man in the crowd. And Lo! They are not to be seen anywhere.

Naradar (aloud)

What happened to those two? Perhaps they may be late!

Easan laughs aloud hearing these words from Naradar and Naradar looks up to Easan puzzled.

Easan

Since you gave gold coins to a pauper, he chose to forget Me! Since you took away the gold from a rich fellow, he too forgot Me! This is what the end results of your action. Do you understand now?

Naradar

Now I it is clear to me. Who can fathom Sivan’s design?

With his eyes moist, he bows to Easan and disappears.

     ********

Kodungolur palace…

The Cheran king is expecting the birth of his progeny…

The palace astrologers are ready with their palm leaf and scribe waiting to hear the first sound from the newborn.

Everyone is curious to know whether it will be a boy who will occupy the throne one day or will it be a girl who will be married off into another kingdom?  Some of them are deeply engrossed discussing aloud the relative advantages of begetting a son or a daughter. Some others are arguing whether the future king to be born will be a devotee of Sivan or Perumal! There are endless discussions and arguments going on everywhere.

Suddenly the maids come running enthusiastically to announce the good news. ‘The emperor is blessed with a son’, they declare. Noting the time of announcement, the astrologers get busy in doing calculations and scribing their predictions in the palm leaves. The king gifts gold and gems to the palace maids for conveying the good news. Then he looks up at the astrologers seated there.

Astrologer 1

Long live the Emperor! The son born in Aadi month under the star Swathi will be hailed by all his subjects and bring glory to the Cheran clan.

Astrologer 2

Manna! My greetings to you. Your son is a rare gem! His name and fame will remain forever!

Astrologer 3

The kings of all the neighbouring countries will be subservient to your son and pay their royalty. He will be the king of kings.

Astrologer 4

He will be an expert of all the languages humans speak and also of the languages of the birds and the beasts.

Astrologer 5

Getting the name of Ranganathan, the Lord of the three worlds, he will stand like a glittering jewel!

Astrologer 5

Manna! The predictions of astrologers who have spoken so far have never been proved wrong. Still….

Your son will go to the forest forsaking the throne! He will be a Gyani! He will possess the ten highly noble qualities and will serve the adiyavars with great devotion. Riding his horse he will attain sivagathi alive.

 The king gets confused on hearing the contradicting versions of his son’s future from the astrologers. The amaichchar, who is seated a little away, looks at the baffled king.

Amaichchar

Manna! Be aware that whatever happens is for the good! Let us carry on with our work.

The king gets up to leave.

Amaichchar (to himself)

Who knows what is destined by Sivan?  Who can predict the will of Easan?

    *********

The palace of Cheran…

Lying in the royal cradle, the baby prince smiles at the onlookers as if he is familiar with them…

All the visitors bless the child, Perumakkodhayan for long life.

   *****

 Perumakkodhayan is imparted education, martial arts and other skills as per the royal tradition. The king passes away when he attains twenty one years of age.

Amaichchar

Great prince! Now that your father has passed away, you must ascend the throne and rule the kingdom.

Perumakkodhayan

Amaichchare! In my twenty one years of life I acquired self- assurance of the ten vairagyams. First I gained the self-confidence of birth. My mind was not perturbed by difficulties of boyhood. Then I acquired the assurance of my body resulting in my discarding of any worry on my physique. I acquired plenty of gold, gems and renounced any attraction for them thereby mastering the Aiswarya vairagyam. 

I accepted the Prapancha vairagyam after studying the changes in the physical universe. Not wanting to accumulate wealth, not willing to mingle with relatives, not wanting to have company of woman and not particular about the type of food to eat and not wanting to beg for a living I have cultivated Draviya, Sanga, Penn, Bhojana and Prathikrita vairagyams. The Uttama vairagyam I have decided is to think only of work relating to Sivan and of nothing else. I am therefore not willing to ascend the throne and rule this country. From this very moment, I will leave this country and join a sivalayam. Please let me go!

He leaves the palace making the amaichchar wonder as to what is destined by Sivan!

      *****

Perumakkodhayan, after leaving the country reaches Thiruvanjaikalam. There he routinely wakes up very early in the morning and after completing his morning ablutions he reaches the Sivan temple. He sweeps and cleans the floor and tidies up the temple premises. Plucking the flowers from the temple garden, he strings them into a garland for the Easan. He spends his time singing the praise of Iraivan.

Sengolporayan, who is in the line of succession, is crowned as the king.

Amaichchar (murmuring)

As per the predictions of the court astrologers, Perumakkodhayan must be ruling the kingdom. But it didn’t happen. However who knows what the plan of Sivan is?

     *****

One day….

Sengolporayan is seated on the throne. A sivanadiyar is seated in front.

Sengolporayan

Adiyavare!  By and by, I am getting unattached to everything.  This throne belongs to my revered Perumakkodhayan, who should have been the reigning. He has discarded everything saying the life of a mendicant in the forest is supreme. Please tell me the truth. Is the life of a mendicant better than that of a king?

Sivanadiyar

Iraivan is the creator of all beings. It is said that nothing happens without a purpose. There is a reason behind the creation of every being. He who can discern that reason is hailed as a Gyani. The five elements of nature are governed and constrained to work in harmony. If one observes closely, it can be seen that they work independent of each other though dependant on one another. Man is also like that. Though he has to follow the ways of the world, he is still an independent entity. Whatever he does depends on his own conviction. If he is blessed with the grace of Iraivan, he will be lead by Him.  There is no distinction between a palace and a forest to the one who has surrendered to the Iraivan totally. 

Sengolporayan

What will I gain by thinking of Iraivan all the time?

Sivanadiyar laughs aloud…

Sengolporayan (confused)

May I know the reason for your laugh?

Sivanadiyar

 Do you think that thinking of God is only for rewards?

Sengolporayan

If our aim is to reach His feet and merge unto Him, it is essential we contemplate on Him all the time. Isn’t reaching Him itself a great reward for us?

Sivanadiyar

A Gyani surrenders his whole to Iraivan without expecting anything in return from Him.

 An ordinary  man expects something in return for every act of his. This is the difference in the thinking of a common man and a Gyani. 

Sengolporayan

Aaha! You have opened my eyes! I have realised that there is no distinction between a palace and a forest to the one who has surrendered to the Iraivan totally.  I will relinquish everything and go to the forest today itself.

He prostrates before the Sivanadiyar chanting ‘Sivaya Nama’. Sivanadiyar blesses the king and leaves. The king discards his royal paraphernalia and sports the icons of Sivanadiyar and enters the forest.

    *******

Thiruvanjaikalam….

The ministers stand in front of Perumakkodhayan in supplication.

Amaichchar (pleading)

Perumakkodhayare! Though you relinquished the royal throne and went away, it has come back seeking you! Since Cheraman Sengolporayan has gone to the forest forsaking the throne, the kingdom is now without a king. It can be attacked by the enemies of the kingdom at any time.. That is the prevailing situation…You must take the responsibility of assuming your duty and protect your subjects. It is equal to serving   the Easan Himself!  Therefore please get crowned and assume your responsibility of running the kingdom without giving any excuse.

 Perumakkodhayan contemplates for a while….

Perumakkodhayan

 I believe everything is destined only by Easan. Therefore I will submit your request to Him and  then only I will give my decision.

He goes to the temple and enters the Easan sannathi. 

Perumakkodhayan (sings)

They urge me to relinquish the delightful service I am rendering,

 To reign the kingdom without renouncing the love for the people,

 If I am blessed by Your grace, please announce your verdict!

 The sound of ‘Om’ emanates there!

 And from the sky …

Asariri (Voice from divine)

Perumakkodhayane!  The noble one who has surrendered to Easan with the conviction that everything happens as per His wish! The palace and the forest are same for you. You have a duty to safeguard your country from the enemies. Therefore ascend the throne and give your subjects good governance. I grant you the ability to understand the language of the gandarvas, the different languages spoken by humans and also the languages of the birds and beasts. You will be intelligent enough to understand whatever is spoken and earn the famed title of ‘Kazhatrirarivar’. Your fame will remain forever. My blessings are with you!

After hearing the divine voice, Perumakkodhayan agrees to ascend the throne.  The people of the kingdom celebrate the day he is crowned as a great festival.  As part of the festivities he goes around the capital mounted on the royal elephant.  He observes a man walking with a load on his back. He is a washer man and the load is a bag of salt. As there has been a mild shower, some of the salt has dissolved resulting in white patches covering his body.  

Perumakkodhayan

The one who is coming is none other than a sivanadiyar. I will prostrate before him.

He dismounts from the elephant quickly and falls on his feet.

The washer man (to himself greatly perturbed)

The king has prostrated mistaking me to be an adiyar.

The washer man (prostrating and touching the feet of the king)

Who   you have thought I am? I am a lowly washer man. (Adiyen adivannaan!)

Perumakkodhayan

 I am a servant of adiyars!( Adiyen Adicheran) Your greatness! You reminded me of adiyavar sporting thiruneeru.  Therefore please proceed without any concern!

 He bows to the washer man once again.

 Seeing his noble gesture, the people hail the king. The heavens open up with a shower of flowers.

     *******

After taking over the kingdom, Kodhayar captivates every one because of his wisdom and expertise. The devotion people have for him is increasing day by day. One day in the assembly when the king is seated in his throne…..

Amaichchar (addressing the people of the assembly)

The whole world praises the benign and compassionate nature of the king. Fortune smiles wherever he goes. The neighbouring kings have accepted the suzerainty of our king and pay their royalty.  They give the just rule of our king to their subjects as well. They consider our king as none other than ‘Thirumal’, the One who protects every life in this Universe.  So from now on our king will be hailed only  as ‘Cheraman Perumal.’

The assembled people (shouting aloud)

‘Long Live Cheraman Perumal’

They hail their king repeatedly.

     *******

Under the benevolent rule of Cheraman Perumal, learned and wise elders guide him correctly. There is recitation of Vedas all around.  He conducts daily prayers to Thillai Ambalaththan. (Thillai Natarajar)

One day…

Cheraman Perumal is singing the devotional song as usual. The rhythm and melody of the song makes Easan himself tapping his feet in symphony! As Easan taps his feet, the sound emanating from the Silambu (anklet made of tiny bells He is wearing) is heard there. Overcome with devotion, Cheraman Perumal continues his singing of his own composition of first pathigam.

Cheraman Perumal

Lustrous as that of gold His body radiates brilliance,

Brilliance as that of silver His hair reflects (vellikundram means Meru snow mounted)

Illustrious as that of His bull mount ventures (At the time of distruction of Thiripuram Thirumal served Easan as his bull mount)

Thoughts of mine will stay with Easan only!

His silvery rock like tresses are lightening   the sky,

As for me, I perceive Him as none but Thirumal,

My entire thoughts are with Easan alone!

“பொன்வண்ணம் எவ்வண்ணம் அவ்வண்ணம்

                      மேனி போலிந்திலங்கும்

 மின்வண்ணம்  எவ்வண்ணம் அவ்வண்ணம்

                      வீழ்ச்சடை வெள்ளிக்குன்றம்

 தன்வண்ணம்  எவ்வண்ணம் அவ்வண்ணம்

                       மால்விடை தன்னைக்கண்ட

 என் வண்ணம்  எவ்வண்ணம் அவ்வண்ணம்

                        ஆகிய ஈசனுக்கே”

He goes into raptures after singing His praise.

From then on, he believes that his only refuge is the sacred feet of Easan and nothing else. He feels happy to distribute gold and gems to the poor and adiyavars who seek his support.

     *******

 At about this time….

 One day in Pandiyanadu….

In the temple of Chokkanathar in Madurai…

Standing in the sannathi of Easan, Bhanapaththirar (Bhanar means a sect who takes singing as profession) enthralls Easan and the assembled devotees by singing the praise of Easan in his melodious voice. After he finishes singing, the deeparadhanai is performed. All of them bow to Easan and come out of the sannathi.

Bhanapaththirar looks famished as he has not taken any food in the past two days.  He finds all those who he has been planning to approach for help bowing and touching his feet in reverence outside the temple.

Bhanapaththirar (to himself hesitating to ask for help)

How can I seek alms from those who are revering me as a noble one by touching my feet? 

He walks along and reaches his house. The thought that his wife is also starved troubles him no end.

His wife as usual washes and dries his feet and takes him inside. Unable to look at his famished wife’s face, he turns his head away. Observing his reluctance to see her face to face, his wife speaks…

His wife

My dear husband! Why are you looking troubled as I have seen never before? How can you turn your head away in distress?

Bhanapaththirar

 The people who saw me prostrated at my feet and went away. How can I seek money or material help from them? I have not been able to find a solution to my poverty. Not being able to satiate the hunger of my wife, I have failed as a husband. What can I do now?

 Agonised thus, he sheds tears.

His wife

Knowing full well that everything is destined by Easan, how can you get rattled for what to do?

We will observe fast today also accepting that this is also destined by Easan.

Overcome with grief on hearing this,

 Bhanapaththirar sings.

‘I know that You are the creator, Paramesa,

 That You are the protector as well, I know,

 The One who keeps alive a toad inside a rock,

 The One who keeps alive the fetus in the womb,

 Why have you left out Bhanapaththiran in Your list?

 I know only songs and singing,

That too about You alone, Paramesa,

 You have done nothing to alleviate my suffering, Paramesa,

 Is this also part of Your divine games?’

His wife takes her lamenting husband to the bed. 

While Bhanapaththirar is sound asleep, scenes as under unfold in his dream.

In the temple of Chokkanathar, he is standing and singing in praise of Easan. Deeparadhanai takes place. As he gets enthralled on seeing the beauty of Easan, the divine hand of Easan is raised as if He is signaling Bhanapaththirar to come closer. With deep devotion he goes near Easan.

Easan

 My dear Paththira! To alleviate your poverty you carry a message from me in the form of palm leaf to my servitor Cheraman Perumal and give it to him. Tell him that it is I, who has sent the message. He will give you whatever you need.

Saying this he inserts a palm leaf in his hand.

Waking up from his sleep with a jolt, Bhanapaththirar finds a real palm leaf in his hand!

    *****

Next morning…

Bhanapaththirar

My dear wife! Last night Iraivan appeared in my dream!

His wife (prostrates and gets up)

Aaha! How blessed am I to have you as my husband! What did He say?

She asks him this question with great joy. But finding him looking worried she is shocked.

His wife

What is this? You are so fortunate to have dharshan of Easan but still how can you look so sad and worried?

Bhanapaththirar

He appeared in my dream.  To alleviate our poverty, He asked me to go to Cheran Nadu and see Cheraman Perumal. He also handed over a palm leaf with a message to Cheraman Perumal in the dream. When I wake up I literally see the sacred palm leaf handed over by Easan in my hand. This is that sacred leaf.

He shows the palm leaf to his wife. She accepts it and after touching her eyes with it with great reverence, she returns the palm leaf.

His wife

Iraivan has come in your dream and given you instructions, He has also handed over the palm leaf to you.  

You have been greatly blessed. How come you are still looking forlorn?

Bhanapaththirar (worried)

Easan could have come in the dream of Cheraman Perumal and given instructions to him to help us. Why give this palm leaf to me? I know that this leaf is handed over to me by Easan Himself. How will the Cheran king know that it is so? What will I do if he punishes me saying that I have brought just a  palm leaf to cheat him?

His wife

Easan has done this only to ensure that you, being His adiyavar, don’t have to demean yourself by narrating your poverty and seek alms from the king. I am surprised how you have not discerned this noble gesture of Easan!

Bhanapaththirar

To alleviate our poverty he could have placed some gold coins in my hand rather than this palm leaf! He is omnipotent and can do what He likes. Couldn’t He have done this instead?

His wife

As ordered by Easan, take this palm leaf and hand it over to the Cheran King. Leave the rest to Him. You will then know what is in store for you. Easan is supreme and no one can question His action.  Who can predict the Will of Easan?

So saying, she bows to Easan.

     ******

The palace of Cheran king….

After finishing his bath prior to sun rise, seated in the puja room Cheraman Perumal is singing the praise of Easan.  As it dawns, the birds leave their nests sounding the arrival of the new day. A few dives land in the window sill of the puja room and create a lot of noise. As the king understands the language of the doves he looks at them.

Dove 1

Oh! Dear king! We have brought good news for you.

The King

Sivaya Nama! Dear Doves! What news you have brought for me?

Dove 1

Bhanapaththirar is on his way to meet you.

The King

Who? Is he the one who sings in the Sokkanathar temple of Madurai?

Dove 2

Yes! The same one! Do you know the reason why he is coming to meet you?

The King (with a mild laugh)

How will I know the reason? If you are aware of it, please tell me.

Dove 3

Haven’t you told by Easan?

The King (again with a mild laugh)

About what?

Dove 4

Easan has sent a message in the form of a palm leaf through Bhanapaththirar.

On hearing this, king gets up with a start.

Dove 5

This is something great! Iraivan has for the first time has sent a message to a human that is you, through a palm leaf.

The King

Is that so? I am truly blessed! Where is Bhanapaththirar now?

Dove 1

He has reached the frontier of your kingdom. Not wanting to insert the leaf in his waist band, he is walking with great devotion carrying the leaf on his head.

The King

Aaha! How blessed are we that Bhanapaththirar is setting his foot on our soil, carrying the palm leaf on his head , the very  palm leaf handed over to him by Easan!

He rings the bell to call his attendant, who comes running.

The King

Guard! Ask the Amaichchar to come forthwith.

Confused on seeing the king and the doves around him the guard runs to call the Amaichchar.

The king bows to the doves that brought the good news and they fly away happily.

The Amaichchar comes rushing and bows to the king.

The King

Amaichchare! Adiyavar Bhanapaththirar is now reaching our frontiers. I have to go and welcome him with full devotional paraphernalia.  Please do the needful.

Amaichchar

Manna! I will do the needful.

The Amaichchar goes out as fast as he came.

The boundary of Cheran Nadu…

Carrying the palm leaf on his head Bhanapaththirar is walking slowly.  Physically tired due to his long walk coupled with hunger, he looks ahead worried as to how far he is yet to walk.

 At that very moment…

 In front of him, he sees a large gathering waiting to welcome him with full devotion. The horns are sounded and there is Nadaswaram being played accompanied by melam. The king who is on the elephant dismounts on seeing Bhanapaththirar and stands in front of him.

The King

 Servitor I am of adiyars! I am Cheraman Perumakkodhayan. Blessed I have been for many births to have your darisanam!

He bows and touches the feet of Bhanapaththirar in reverence. The others who have accompanied the king also pay their respects and welcome him in the highest tradition of the land.

Bhanapaththirar (delighted on getting the royal welcome and a grand reception)

Oh! King of Kings! I am Bhanapaththiran. I have brought the divine message from the Lord of Madurai Sokkanathar. Kindly accept the same.

He hands over the sacred palm leaf given by Easan to the king. The king accepts it with great reverence and touches it with his eyes. Shouting ‘Sivaya Nama’, he makes Bhanapaththirar to mount the elephant. Carrying the palm leaf on his head, the king walks behind the elephant. The procession reaches the king’s palace. Bhanapaththirar is made to refresh and fed. In the puja room of the palace, the king prostrates before Easan and opens the palm leaf handed over by Bhanapaththirar.

Many have gathered there curious to know the contents of Easan’s message.

The king (after reading the contents)

Aaha! What a rare gem of a pasuram I have ever read!

‘Sporting the crescent moon on his locks, Sivan, the resident of Aalavaai where the water bodies in plenty  are teeming with white swans, conveys the following in this palm leaf to Cheran, who supports all  pavalars (Bhanar) : ‘Bhanapaththiran,  who plays the Yazh and who is as attached to Me like you, is coming to meet you. I urge you to hand over to him a large amount of his needs and send him back’.

The king again prostrates in front of Bhanapaththirar saying that he is honoured by his visit having come with the orders of Easan.

The King

Amaichchare!   Load whatever gold, gems and other articles are held in our treasury on to carts immediately and hand them over to this adiyavar.

The Amaichchar and others carry out the order of the king immediately.  Finding a huge pile of articles placed in front of Bhanapaththirar, he is rendered speechless.

The King (bowing to Bhanapaththirar)

Bhanapaththirare! These are only a part of my offerings. Kindly accept all the elephants, horses, my subjects as well as my kingdom.

Bhanapaththirar

Aaha! I have now understood what has been in the mind of Easan. Only to demonstrate to the whole world, the magnanimity of Cheran Perumal, He has given me the palm leaf rather than gold directly. As ordained by Sivan, I will accept only that much quantity which is sufficient to feed me twice daily.  Glorious Cheran Perumale! Retain all other things with you so that you can support all other adiyavars in need.

Arrangements are made immediately and Paththirar accepts only that much of things as needed by him.

Amaichchar

If that is what is ordered by Easan, I dare not over rule it.

He bows to Bhanapaththirar and gets the needed articles loaded on to an elephant. After getting Bhanapaththirar also to mount, he sees him off to Madurai.

     ********

One day in the palace of Cheraman Perumal…

The mannar and the Amaichchar are in conversation.

Amaichchar

Mannar Perumane! Under your noble reign, the subjects are enjoying bountiful crops and leading a peaceful life without fear of any danger from the enemies.  Though there is nothing wanting for any one…

The King

From what you are saying, it appears there is something lacking in my regime!

Amaichchar

Yes! Mannar Perumane!  That Easan, because of His love towards you, had sent you His message through Bhanapaththirar will be an event of your glory forever! Still, when you forget your status of being our king and stoop to revere at the mere mention of Easan, is not acceptable to us.  You are the king. You are equivalent to Mahesan Himself! Is it appropriate for a king to prostrate in front of others?

The King

To be a servitor of adiyavars and to be lower too even the lowest is suitable for me. As otherwise, will the sound of Thillai Ambalavanan’s anklet be heard here?

Amaichchar

What?  Are you hearing the sound of the anklet of the sacred feet of Thillai Ambalavanan here?

The King

Every day, the sound from the anklet of Easan is heard to indicate His appreciation of my songs.

The Amaichchar on hearing this is overwhelmed and bows to the king.

       ******

Days pass….

One day in his palace….

Cheraman Perumal after concluding the puja of Iraivan completes his singing and awaits to hear the sound from the anklets of Easan. Even after a considerable time, no sound is heard.

The King

Where is Emperuman Easan? Why is He delaying to bless poor me?

He again starts singing in praise of Easan. Again there is no acknowledgement. The king keeps waiting. Time passes. He keeps a watch with a sharp ear. However, there is no sound of Easan’s anklet that day.

The King (deeply perturbed and in tears)

Iraiva! What crime I have committed? Have I lost the blessing of hearing the sound of your anklet forever?

Even after his tearful pleading there is no sound of Easan’s anklet.

The King

What is the use of this body if it cannot hear the sound from Your anklets?

He draws his sword and raises it to plunge it in his heart. Just then the sound of Easan’s anklets is heard in quick succession.  Mollified, Cheraman Perumal lowers his sword. 

The King (in tears of joy)

Easane! You have appeased me by the sound of Your anklets and saved my life. Why haven’t done this earlier? If I have committed any offense, please tell me. I will redeem it!

Easan (standing formless)

The fault is mine! Today, I got lost listening to the singing of my servitor Sundaran at Thillai. So I forgot to sound my anklets. In that brief period, you decided to end your life for not being able to hear it.  My dear friend!  Since you are able to understand whatever is spoken, you will henceforth be called by everyone as ‘Kazhatrarivar Nayanar’ and to glorify your clan for ever you will also be called as ‘Cheraman Perumal Nayanar’.  Your name will remain glorified as long as this earth remains. Whosoever worships me will worship you as well! My blessings are with you.

Cheraman Perumal Nayanar (folding his hands in supplication and bowing)

Iraivane! I am alive because of You! I am delighted beyond measure hearing Your voice!  I am a servant of all your servitors. You addressed me as a dear friend! Am I blessed that much?

Easan

Sundaran is my friend. When you are a friend of his, don’t you become a friend of Mine too?

Cheraman Perumal Nayanar

Aaha! How blessed am I! But I have not met Sundarar so far!

Easan (laughing)

Won’t you see him now?

Cheraman Perumal Nayanar

Who can predict the will of Easan?

He bows to Easan… the laughter of Easan permeates!

     ******

Days pass by…

The palace of Cheraman…

Cheraman Perumal Nayanar

Amaichchare! I need to go to Chidambaram and have the darisanam of Thillai to my heart’s content. There I have to see Sundaramoorthiyar also! Please make the necessary arrangements.

Amaichchar

What to do if there is danger from the enemies when you are away from the kingdom?

Cheraman Perumal Nayanar

Easan will take care!

Amaichchar hurries to carry out his orders without any dissent.

     ********

Chidambaram…

Cheraman Nayanar is engrossed in Siva darisanam. He starts singing the hundred songs of ‘Ponvannaththandhadhi’.  As he finishes his singing, Easan rattles his anklets as a token of appreciation…

There is a shower of flowers from the heavens. Cheraman Nayanar folds his palms in reverence.

The accompanying army of Cheraman Nayanar is eagerly waiting for him for their return journey. But he is nowhere to be seen. Every day, he sings in the sannathi of Thillai Natarajan and hears the sound from the anklets of Easan. His devotion grows unrestrained like a wild forest fire and he remains there taking Easan as his only refuge.

One day…

Easan

Cheraman Nayanare! Go forth to Thiruvarur. I am eager to hear your songs as Aarooran! Sundaran is also waiting for you there….

Cheraman Perumal Nayanar

To see You, a thousand eyes are needed,

To praise You, a thousand tongues are needed,

Your glory cannot be constrained even in countless parchments,

I leave for Kamalalayam to feast my eyes on You again.

Cheraman Nayanar leaves for Thiruvarur with his retinue.

    *******

Thiruvarur…

Cheraman Perumal is delighted as he is welcomed by Sundaramoorthiyar attired as a bridegroom.

Cheraman Nayanar (bowing and touching the feet of Sundarar)

 I am Adicheran, a servant of servitors of Easan.

Sundaramoorthiyar (agitated)

 What is this? How can you, who have bestowed the name of Cheraman Perumal Nayanar by Easan Himself, touch my feet?

He lifts him up and hugs him fondly.

Sundaramoorthiyar

You are my friend. You are much superior to me. You have earned great fame because Easan has written a message to you to help Bhanapaththirar. You offered your entire holdings to Bhanapaththirar on reading the message from Easan that he should be given a lot of wealth and released.  Cheraman Nayanare! You are a great soul! Aarooran is waiting to hear your song.  He made me sing by giving the first syllable of ‘Piththa.’  I, adiyen, Adisundaran,   beseech you to compose and sing the ‘Thiruvarur Mummanikkovai’ with the starting syllable of ‘virikadal.’

Cheraman Perumal hugs his friend highly pleased and both of them walk to reach the sannathi of Easan.

There is huge crowd in the sannathi. Isn’t it a rarest of rare sight to see two of the most favorite adiyars of Easan together?

Cheraman Perumal Nayanar

He starts his song with the words ‘virikadal parugi alarupattanna’ and ends with the same word ‘virikadale’.

All who have assembled and heard his singing go into raptures! Easan and Sundarar are totally engrossed.

The assembled crowd chants ‘Sivaya Nama, Sivaya Nama.’

     ********

The days roll by…

Visiting many villages and towns having Sivan temples, they compose and sing many songs in praise of Easan. The whole country is in contemplation of Sivan. There are many followers who accompany them during their journeys. Chanting   ‘Hara Hara Siva Siva’, the name of Easan, Sundaramoorthiyar and Cheran Perumal reach Thirukkandiyur. Keen to reach Thiruvaiyaru on the other North bank of Cauvery they walk up to the river front.  Cauvery is flooded and in spates. The elders prevent them from crossing the flooded river.

One of the Adiyavars

Perumangale!  It is impossible to cross the river with a boat or coracle as the speed is very high. It is impossible to reach the other bank now!

Cheraman Perumal Nayanar

If that is so, I have to get down and swim across the river.

While he enters the water, Sundaramoorthiyar catches hold of his hand and stops him from going further.

Sundaramoorthiyar

Considering the speed of current, not only we, but also the accompanying adiyavars will be drowned! So let us visit the temples on this side of the river.  If by that time the fury of the flood abates, we will go to Thirvaiyaru.

Cheraman Perumal Nayanar (looking forlorn)

How can I live without seeing Iyyarappar, who presented the scene of Thirukkailayam to Thirunavukkarasar?

Sundaramoorthiyar sings:

Sundaramoorthiyar

Is that the Easan at Ayyaru, who has said that I would never leave you? I am, by nature, ignorant of the way of praising You!  Therefore I have not come earlier to revere You. But I keep thinking of You day and night without a break!  Please drive away our difficulty. You are used to keep me out of any trouble wherever I have gone.  Easan of Ayyaru! From the day You have taken me as Your slave till now, You alone have occupied my heart! Will you not rise up today to mitigate my difficulty?   Never will I leave You annoyed! I will stay with You in thick and thin and will never change my disposition. Why is this silence? Pardon me if I have committed any error as I am unaware of any such I have committed.  Please see the spate in the river Cauvery.   Ayyaru Adigalare! Are You able to hear me? My father and my grandfather too worship You! I am eager to witness Your grace! I cannot swim across the flooded river.

 You dispel the miseries of adiyars on Your own without even their appeal!  But today, You seem to ignore our predicament. Perhaps You are angry with me! Ayyaru adigale! I am not aware of You! Still I am now thinking of Thiruvarooran, who I have seen. Please chase way the distress of your adiyars.

On his commending Easan thus, the Cauvery   splits in the middle to enable the adiyavars to walk across to the other bank.  Seeing this miracle the adiyavars blow their conches and the sound of ‘Ohm’ emanating from them guide them across.  Sundaramoorthiyar and Cheran Perumal, with their hands joined in reverence walk across and climb the far bank hailing the Iyyarappar.  Easan of Ayyaru   is waiting for them. After having the divine darisanam of Iraivan, they return the same way. The Cauvery which split in to two rejoins and continues on its journey with gusto!

                                    ********

Sundaramoorthiyar and Cheran Perumal along with their retinue reach Kodungalur ultimately.   The town sports a festive look to welcome the adiyars dear to Easan. On the frontier, a decorated elephant is waiting.  Sundaramoorthiyar climbs up and is seated on it. With sacred and ceremonial musical instruments in full flow, the elephant walks ahead. The people lined up on both sides of the path are bowing to them witnessing a rare sight of their king fanning Sundaramoorthiyar with a white samara in his hand. The elephant reaches the palace. Sundaramoorthiyar and Cheraman Perumal alight from the elephant.  When Cheraman Perumal tries to conduct the pada puja of Sundaramoorthiyar, he is dissuaded from doing it. However Cheraman Perumal persists and conducts the puja. Thereafter he is lead in to the palace. Cheraman Perumal makes him seated in his throne and stands with his hands folded as a servitor. Overwhelmed by the affection shown to him, Sundaramoorthiyar is sitting on the throne with a pleasing countenance. The artists of the palace capture the scene in paintings. The king takes him for a sumptuous six course meal and serves him by his own hands. Sundaramoorthiyar sheds tears of joy on receiving such hospitality.

After staying in the palace enjoying the warmth and kindness of the king for some time, one day….

Sundaramoorthiyar

Mannar Mannare! My bosom friend! Reminded of Aarooran, I intend returning to Thiruvarur.

Please grant my wish and let me go.

Cheran Perumal (shedding tears)

Can there be life after relinquishing the body?

Sundaramoorthiyar

It is the responsibility of the king to administer his kingdom.   It is unjustified if you keep company with a roaming pandaram like me all the time instead!

Sundaramoorthiyar bids a teary farewell and leaves Kodungolur. After he leaves, the king calls for his Amaichchar who comes running.

Cheran Perumal

How can I accept that my Sundaran calls himself a pandaram? Please take enough gold and gems and hand them over to him before he reaches Thiruvarur.

A long caravan of gold, gems and other articles rush towards Thiruvarur as per the king’s order.

     *******

The caravan of the king reaches Thirumurugan poondi. It is the edge of the forest and time for a break. Sundaramoorthiyar also arrives there with his retinue. The king’s men bow to Sundaramoorthiyar and inform him that they are carrying the gold and gems to Thiruvarur for handing over to him as per the orders of the king. Sundaramoorthiyar, extolling the virtues of his friend continues his journey through the thick jungle along with the king’s caravan. They are surrounded by dacoits in the middle of the forest. While the king’s men guard Sundaramoorthiyar and his retinue of adiyars from physical harm by the dacoits, all the gifts given by the king are stolen.

 The adiyars are baffled by the turn of events which happens in front of their eyes in a moment. Chanting the ‘Panchakshara mantram’ they reach a temple and enter the sannathi of Easan. Easan is seated in the sannathi with a mischievous look.

Easan (to Himself)

Sundara! It is I who brought you here by sending my attendants to steal all the wealth given by Cheraman knowing well that you are impatient to reach Thiruvarur! Usually you crib exaggerating your woes.  Now I am eagerly waiting to know what abusive verses you are going to compose on Me?

 Not knowing what is running in the mind of Easan, Sundaramoorthiyar stands in front of Easan with his hand folded in supplication. 

Sundaramoorthiyar

Why are you staying here with your consort, if you cannot safeguard the people from hunter dacoits, who harass the passersby by threatening them with their bows, abusing them with inappropriate words, hitting them with stones and even disrobing them to take away their clothes!

Annai laughs aloud.

Easan (mockingly)

Devi! There is more to come…

Sundaramoorthiyar (continues)

These hunters are sinners who kill and eat the cows. They do not even realise what they are doing is a crime and they kill and torture the travelers and rob them off their belongings. Unaware of what is happening around, You are seeking alms with a begging bowl! That too along with   Ammai Aavudai Nayaki!  What for You are staying here? 

On hearing this ….

Annai (looking at Easan and in anger)

Enough of Your games! Please stop with this. I cannot tolerate Sundaran singing abuses any longer.

Easan

It is no one but ME who is making him sing! Let him sing! Shall We ever get such happiness?

Easan again laughs aloud.

Sundaramoorthiyar (continues)

You are unable to protect the travelers from the hunter dacoits in this dreadful forest,. Can’t You at least try to escape from these villains? Has Your bull broken its leg? Why are You staying here?  When You are capable of going anywhere You want to, why are You staying here? Emperumane! You are not alone. You have kept Umayal on one half of Your body. You are not lame. Why are you staying in this place which is full of thieves? Run away from here with your consort immediately!

Easan (as if hurt) 

Look! He is ridiculing by questioning   whether I am lame.

Annai (pacifying)

Though he appears to be condemning Us, he uses words in praise of You in his songs.

Easan

If we do not disclose Ourselves now, he may even abuse us for being blind and deaf not to see and hear him!

 So saying He raises His hand. A huge glow of light appears in the sannathi.

The Divine Voice

Wanting to hear your songs, We have tasked our attendants to rob your valuables. All stolen articles have already reached Thiruvarur! Continue your sacred journey without any further worry.

Sundaramoorthiyar is moved to tears by the compassion shown by Easan. Witnessing the glory of Easan in the form of huge light in the sannathi, his retinue of adiyars chants the Panchakshara mantram in such a loud voice that it reverberates in the heavens.

     ********

Sundaramoorthiyar returns to Thiruvarur and is welcomed by Paravayar.

Paravayar (bowing to Sundaramoorthiyar)

Before your arrival, the bundles of gold, gems and other items have reached here. There will be no worries in future for ever to feed the adiyavars.

Sundaramoorthiyar mentally conveys his gratitude to Aarooran.

    *******

At about the same time, in Cheran Nadu….

The king’s palace…

The king mounts his royal steed to take a round of the city with the amaichchar as per routine. After covering a short distance they stop under a tree and dismount from their horses as it starts raining.

The royal steed hails the king as ‘manna’.

The King (replies to the steed)

What is the matter, my dear friend?

The Amaichchar is bewildered hearing the horse and the king converse.

The royal steed

Till now the king has never addressed me as friend! Manna! The amaichchar is confused. You may be the greatest devotee of Easan. Does that mean you can do anything as you wish?

The King (laughing)

Friend! What have I done to warrant this rebuke?

The royal steed

After you ascended the throne, you fell on the feet of a washer man forgetting your royal status. Is this not a blot on the king’s crown?

 As the steed stops abruptly, the king prods it.

The King

Why have you stopped? Go ahead and tell me more.

The royal steed

  Due to my fear that I may not exceed my limits, I stopped.

The King

You are my friend. You always think of my well being. How can I ever get angry with you?

Tell me without any hesitation whatever you want to say.

The Amaichchar is still confused what the king and his steed are talking about.

The royal steed

When Bhanapaththirar came with the palm leaf, you donated your entire treasury to him.  Trusting you, the people have given you the responsibility to administer the kingdom. But you were prepared to empty the entire treasury. It is a good fortune that Bhanapaththirar took only what he needed. As a king you are required to accumulate wealth and ensure good administration of the kingdom. How can you forget your responsibility? How can you brush aside your duties?

Cheraman Nayanar

Now I answer your questions. I have taken a vow to prostrate before any adiyavar when I see him.  Can’t a washer man become an adiyar? As an adiyavar of adiyavars, I bowed to only an adiyavar. For you, he appeared as a washer man. We are all actors wearing different costumes; I as a king and you as a steed. That is the only difference. Otherwise we are all one and that is the great Easan. Next let us take up the episode of Bhanapaththirar.

 Iraivan has written a message to me and gave it to Bhanapaththirar. He has ordered that he be given enormous wealth and sent back. Who is Iraivan? He is the one who has created this entire universe. The five elements of earth, sky, water, fire and wind are all His creations. He is the creator of all the living creatures in this earth. The gold, the gems and everything else are all given by Him alone. He is the owner of all these things.   

Who am I? I am the king of this soil. I am a guard of what He has bestowed. He is my owner. I only carry out the orders of my owner…. Just think for a while…

 The one who creates the gold and the gems could have given these to his devotee himself directly. Why should he send a palm leaf message to me to do it? When the real owner of the property asks it to be returned, is it not proper to return everything? The steed neighs as if in agreement.

The Amaichchar looks at the horse and the king repeatedly. He is dumbfounded listening to their conversation.

Cheraman Nayanar

I am thankful for agreeing to my view.

The royal steed

Manna! I have one more question.

Cheraman Nayanar

Yes! Go ahead, my friend!

The royal steed

When Sundaramoorthiyar bade farewell, he did not ask anything from you.  Still, you sent bundles after bundles of gold and gems and wanted them to be delivered at Thiruvarur before he reached there. Is that right?

Cheraman Nayanar

Why it can’t be right?

The royal steed

For him, neither gold nor wealth is of any significance. What will he do with that gold and wealth?

Cheraman Nayanar

How can you say that neither gold nor wealth is of any significance to him?

The royal steed

He is a Gyani!

The king laughs.

The royal steed

I am unable to understand the reason for your laugh.

Cheraman Nayanar (again laughing)

If Sundaramoorthiyar is a Gyani, then what am I?

The royal steed (surprised)

Manna! Your replies have cleared my mind.  I have realised that as a Gyani, gold and wealth are of no significance to you as well.  I am blessed for carrying you and attain greatness due to that. My salutations to you.

The rain stops. The king mounts the horse and continues his round of the city.

    *******

A considerable time elapses…..

Cheraman Perumal is languishing due to his separation from Sundarar.  Perturbed by his state, Iraivan arises in Thiruvarur sannathi where Sundaramoorthiyar is standing and praying. A divine voice emanates.

Divine Voice

Cheraman is suffering due to separation from you. Proceed to Kodungolur to mitigate his suffering. .. This time go alone leaving your retinue of adiyars here.

Sundaramoorthiyar starts from there to fulfill the order of Easan.  Paravayar gives him a teary farewell as usual… The adiyavar retinue accompanies him till the city limits and bids him farewell. Sundaramoorthiyar starts walking towards Cheran Nadu.

A lot of thoughts cross his mind while he walks….

Sundaramoorthiyar (to himself)

Is being alone so much exhilarating? There is no disturbance between me and Iraivan… How the mind becomes peaceful when concentrating on Easan without any hindrance!  Surrounded by people and enjoying their attention, how have I not realised this bliss and lived all these days!

I was born in a wealthy family.. I took the name of Nambi Aarooran… I was adopted by the king and imparted education. When I attained the age of marriage, I asked my parents to get me married without any hesitation.  When I was about to get married I was absorbed by Easan and became a slave of Vennai Nallooraan.  When Iraivan gave me the first syllable of ‘Piththa’, I gained the dexterity to compose songs in praise of Easan in Tamizh. Iraivan then called me over to Thiruvarur asking the people to give me a grand welcome. He addressed me as ‘Nanba’ so that everyone becomes aware of my status. Alas! Not realising the exemplary grace of Iraivan, how foolish and unrefined I have been?   On seeing Paravai, I fell for her in lust… When I pleaded with Iraivan, he got her married to me… After my marriage I forgot Easan totally… After a long gap, when I came to my senses I went to Thiruppugalur to feast my eyes on Easan….There I was crowned by Easan and His divine feet became the tiara.   Will any human being get this kind of blessing? In Thruvotriyur, I saw Sangili and fell for her… Iraivan agreed to my request there also and got me married to her…   I lost my eye sight for not adhering to the promise I had made, and   regained it by pleading to Him… Not realising that I have been extraordinarily blessed… alas… I have even asked the Iraivan in the middle of the night to pacify Paravai who was annoyed with me.. He carried it out even that without any rancour.  How debased am I to have acted frivolous many times without realising the depth of His friendship? So many times I have used abusive words against him in anger… Like a father forgives his son, He has pardoned me! Whenever I asked for anything, He gave them to me. When I was famished, He gave me food… When I was in dire straits, he gave me gold… I have gone through anger, compassion, and sadness. I have realised that what I considered as blissful are prone to change their status. How many years it has taken for me to distinguish between what is permanent and what is not!  There is nothing of permanence except the sacred feet of Easan! To think of Him is bliss!  To bow to Him is the duty of the body He has bestowed! To chant His name is the use for our tongue!

He is the light of our lives… Without Him not even atom can stir. Lastly, I must meet Cheraman and dispel his sorrow and then take refuge in Easan’s sacred feet.

He walks along and Easan, knowing his intention fully walks along.

Easan

 Sundara! You have realised what is the true path! You have also realised what is of permanence!

Before long you will reach Kailayam… I am also ready to receive you there and welcome you with both my hands. 

 Not hearing any of the words spoken by Easan, Sundarar quickens his pace to reach Kodungolur….

     *******

Kodungolur….

 The palace of Cheraman Perumal…

There is celebration all around on the reunion of separated friends…

 Where ever they go, they go together…  Finding a temple of Easan, they sing His praise alternatively.. As the time is passing pleasantly like this… One day…

As usual they wake up before day break and prepare themselves to go for their bath.

 Sundaranar

Cheran Perumale! You please have your bath here itself, complete your puja and attend to your daily chores. I like to go to Thiruvanchaikalam and take my bath in the pond there. I want to have the darisanam of Easan there.

Cheraman Perumal 

How can you go to Thiruvanchaikalam leaving me here alone?

Sundaranar

Cherane! Whenever I am with you, you are neglecting your official work and this is disturbing me no end! It is improper for a king to abandon his duties.  I feel the time has come for me to go away from you. 

Please allow me to go …

Cheraman Perumal 

Adiyavare! What is this?  Will a man who plants a tree fail to water it? The official works will carry on automatically. If you leave me, will my life remain in this body?

Sundaranar (taken aback)

Cherane! Don’t utter such words. I will return after having darisanam of Easan at Thiruvanchaikalam.

 He walks away thinking ‘who can predict the will of Easan’?

    *******

The temple pond of Thiruvanchaikalam…

Sundaramoorthiyar takes a dip in the pond and hears the voice ‘nanba’.

Looking around as to who has called him, he finds no one around. Thinking that he is imagining things he takes another dip only to hear the same voice hailing him as ‘nanba’. He comes out of the water and looks around. He is surprised to see no one around. Only then he realises that it is Easan who has been calling him…

Sundaranar

Emperumane! Is that You who hailed me?

Easan

Yes! My friend! How long I can wait for reunion. I have sent Iravatham. Mount on it and reach Me!

Acceding to Easan’s order Sundaramoorthiyar comes out of the pond. Iravatham is waiting for him outside. Folding hands in reverence, Sundaramoorthiyar mounts the elephant. Iravatham starts flying towards Kailayam. On the way he recollects that he has promised Cheraman that he would return. He becomes morose …..

At the same time in Kodungolur….

The royal steed goes to the king ….

The royal steed  

Manna! The adiyavar Sundaramoorthiyar, whom you worship, is flying somewhere mounted on a white elephant.

Not even hesitating for a second Cheran Perumal mounts his steed and murmurs on its ear the Panchakshara  mantram ‘Sivaya Nama, Sivaya Nama’. The steed is now endowed with two wings and takes off with Cheran Perumal. Seeing Iravatham ahead of him, Cheran Perumal gallops his steed faster and overtakes Sundaramoorthiyar. He goes around him bowing with his hands folded. Iravatham is surprised to see the horse going around him. Soon they reach the entrance to Kailayam. The guards of the entry gate stop both of them. Both of them alight from their respective mounts.

The gate guard (bowing)

I am the servant of adiyars. Countless crores of Salutations to both of you. Permission has been given only for Sundaramoorthiyar to enter inside. There is no permit for Cheraman Perumal…

Sundaramoorthiyar (extremely distressed)

My dear friend! Let me go inside and bow to the sacred feet of Easan and obtain permission for you to enter inside Kailayam.

With unbound joy on seeing Easan, he falls on His feet and calls Cheraman Perumal to come in. He runs inside and falls on the feet of Easan.

Easan (giving a kind look at Cheraman)

Cheraman Nayanare! Why have you come without me inviting you?

He asks as if He knows nothing!

Cheraman Perumal (highly perturbed as if he has committed a crime and clasping Easan’s feet)

Emperumane!  You must please pardon this small fry! I was not aware that I had been coming towards Kailayam.  As my body, life and soul were all bowing to Sundaranar all the way, I am blessed to come and stand in front of You!  

He prays to Easan. He realises that this drama has been enacted by Easan, to illustrate that it is Sundaramoorthiyar who has enabled the blessings of Easan to his friend Cheraman Perumal!

Easan

Cherane!  The one who attends to all my adiyars! My friend! From now on you will be the head of all my attendants and remain so forever!

Cheraman Perumal (bowing to Easan)

Emperumane! Please grant me permission to sing ‘Thirukkayilaya Thiruvula’ in Your divine presence.

On getting permission from Easn, Cheraman Perumal composes and sings the Thiruvula. Everyone assemble there to hear his songs.

Next day in Kailayam…

 Iraivan is in meditating in silence…

Naradar arrives there and bows to Easan.

Easan

Naradare! What is the matter? You are looking anxious! Have you come here in search of something?

Naradar

I witnessed Your divine game! You have granted salvation to Cheraman Perumal! I, Your servitor, have a doubt in Your act!  I have come here to seek a clarification from You!

Easan (laughing)

Narada! Go ahead!

Naradar

You have sent Iravatham to Sundaramoorthiyar and let him enter Kailayam. There is nothing wrong in it. But, you did not send any vahanam for Cheraman Perumal. He himself chanted the Panchakshara mantram in the ear of his royal horse, made it fly and followed Sundaramoorthiyar to reach Thirukailayam. Why such differentiation you have shown between adiyars? Why this partiality? You will send Iravatham for one of them and leave the other one in lurch!

Easan

Come on! You get a horse here and chant the Panchakshara mantram in its ear! Let us see what happens then!

Naradar bows to Easan and a horse arrives there…

Naradar rushes to it and chants the Panchakshara mantram in its ear.

The horse remains as it is without any change in its body. Naradar goes around the horse and finds to his dismay that there are no wings originated on its body!

Naradar (realising his folly raises both his hands above his head and joins them in reverence)

Emperumane! Please pardon me! I have realised that ‘Without the will of Sivan, even an atom cannot stir in this universe’.

Bowing to Easan Naradar departs from Kailayam.

Though his hands are raised and he is bowing in supplication as he goes away, he still murmurs

‘Who can know  the mind of Sivan.’  சிவன் சித்தம் யாரறிவார்? (Sivan chittam yaar arivaar?)

Thiruchchitrambalam