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Source: The Hindu

(http://www.hinduonnet.com/2002/04/20/stories/2002042000120800.htm)

Miscellaneous

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Religion

 

 

Philosophic ideas in Thyagaraja's songs

 

 

 

 

CHENNAI

APRIL 20.

 

Among the millions of creations of God, the human beings (sentient) are limited

in number; among these few thousands of privileged, only some try to attain

perfection; even from them a very small number desire to approach God to be

freed from worldly ties. The Lord Himself has made these statements. It is hence

necessary for one keen to reach His abode, to strive to adopt the scriptural

procedures made available for all. Even now there are amongst us men of

distinction, who care for nothing but permanent release from earthly links. Just

about two centuries ago was a saint who had the vision of Rama, who adored Him

through 24,000 songs, which contained philosophic sentiments. He chanted Rama's

name 96-crore times, but he did not desire any material benefits except the

opportunity to worship Him. Another saint of his days (who was 117 years of age)

invited him to Kanchi and after blessing him asked him what he wanted. His reply

was simple "Let me continue my uninterrupted ser!

vice to God offering basil petals (Thulasi) at His feet." He had gone on a

pilgrimage to sing the praise of deities in various places. At Tirumala

(Tirupati) the curtain before God fell down (as he had gone after the scheduled

hour) when he sang a composition mentioning the enemies within. At Srirangam,

when the Lord's chariot could not proceed, the saint who was camping in a nearby

place, came and prayed when it moved further. This was Saint Thyagaraja, whose

outpourings take to the pinnacle of Bhakti. Like the florist who gave a garland

to Sri Krishna (in the Bhagavatam) and who was asked to seek any boon, but only

sought the privilege to worship Him, Thyagaraja was satisfied only with devotion

to Rama.

 

How Thyagaraja's songs on Rama and other deities retained dynamic energy in them

was explained in a Harikatha by Sri M. Vekata Simhachala Sastrygaru adding that

the saint had indeed founded a musical empire that is withstanding the test of

time. He never sought popularity or fame, but his contribution made several

saintly persons throng to him. He is believed to be the manifestation of

Valmiki, who has left us the Divine Poem. Thyagaraja has introduced all his

surging philosophic ideas into his Kritis, presenting a happy blending of

cultural and spiritual elements. He has offered his music to God only, diving

deep into the fathomless system and has brought out rare gems of resplendent

beauty.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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