Kungiliya Kalaya Nayanar

2

Kungiliya Kalaya Nayanar

Kailayam...

Nandi welcomes Naradar who has arrived there.

 Naradar

 The sacred incarnation of Baghavan Narayanar is going to take place...

As I came to know that the avataram of Rama is about to take place to ensure that the curse you gave Ravanan fructifies, I came running here.  You are supposed to be very docile! What actually happened here to make you curse him?

Nandi elaborates…

                ******

Blinded by the glory of having won all the three worlds, Ravanan is flying in his chariot haughtily.  Wanting to fly over the Kailayangiri, he elevates his flying chariot higher.  Kailayangiri also rises in order to block him. Angered by this, he looks here and there.  Seeing him Nandi stops him from proceeding with his attempt to fly over Kailayam.

Nandi

Hey! Arakkane!  This is Kailayangiri, the abode of Kailasapathy and Annai Parvathi.  Go away from here at once.

Ravanan (angrily)

You insignificant monkey faced!  How dare you stop me? Don’t you know who I am? Your Kailayangiri is like a dust on my feet. Stand aside, lest I behead you.

Nandi

You have ridiculed me by calling me monkey faced. Let you and your entire clan of arakkars be destroyed because of a monkey!

The flying chariot of Ravanan loses its capacity to fly any further and lands on the earth.  Angered still further due to this, Ravanan tries to uproot the entire Kailayangiri and lift it over his head.  The entire Kailayangiri quakes by his action. Knowing very well the happenings, Easan presses the mountain with his big toe and the mountain rests on his shoulders with enormous pressure.  Squeezed between the earth and the mountain, Ravanan does not know what to do. 

Ravanan (unable bear the pain)

I have now realised that there is a superior power than what I have... It must be none other than Easan, my creator! I have lost my mind due to pride and arrogance.

Realising his folly, he feels genuinely sorry. He tears of his stomach and using the intestine as string and his body as Veena, he plays on it praying soulfully to Easan. Pleased by his devotion, Easan releases him.

A divine voice is heard at that time.

The divine voice 

Ravana!  I am captivated by your music. As you have realised your folly and pleaded for forgiveness, you are pardoned. Your effort to lift Kailayam and keep it on your shoulders has brought to light your great strength.  You are granted the title of “Easwaran”  and hence forth be called Ravaneswaran.

    *****

Kailayam...

Nandi (to Naradar)

This is what happened!  By the way, You are supposed to be knower of the past, present and the future! How come you are not aware of this?

Naradar (laughing)

 I know. Still I wanted to hear it from you! That is why I asked you! I also came here to tell a good news for you!

Nandi (confused)

 What is the good news for me/

Naradar (mischievously)

To redeem your curse, the monkey faced is going to take birth!

 Nandi

Who is that great person?

Naradar

 The avataram of Anjaneyar as son of  Anjana Devi by the boon of Vayu Bhagawan is about to take place.

Nandi (closing his eyes and raising his hands above his head in reverence)

Om Namasivaya

Naradar (responds)

Om Namo Narayana!

Nandi opens his eyes only to see Naradar hurriedly disappearing...

   *******

Thadakai is flying over Lanka.

The huge shadow of her on the ground makes it as though it is night time.

Looking down she sees huge palaces and other towering buildings.   Crowds of Arakkars are seen everywhere. Seeing the nicely decorated palace of Ravanan, she starts to climb down.  Vibhishanan, Kumbakarnan, Indrajit, Mandodhari and other females of the palace line up to welcome her.

Vibhishanan

Welcome! Respected grandmother! Let your arrival here be auspicious!

Thadakai gets pleased.

However on seeing others not saying anything, she gets angry and her face becomes frightening to behold. Seeing this Kumbakarnan runs and falls at her feet and gets up.

Kumbakarnan

Pattiyare! Calm down! Please calm down.   These people are quiet not out of disrespect to you but out of fear of your short temper! 

All of them prostrate in front of Thadakai who appears pleased. 

At that time the thundering sound of the chariot of Ravanan is heard.

Immediately every one assembled there becomes alert.His arrival is announced by the blowing of horns.

Ravanan walks down.

Unlike his usual boisterous manner, he walks slowly and calmly.

All are greatly surprised by the change in his demeanor. 

As he notices his grandmother Thadakai, he goes straight to her and welcomes her in reverence.

Thadakai proudly looks at her grandson.

Thadakai Ravana ! How was your trip around the worlds?

Seeing a beaming Ravanan, she looks at him curiously!

Ravanan

Pattiyare! From now onwards, your grandson will be hailed as Ravaneswaran! This is the title given by Easan, our creator, Himself!

He narrates all the events and all are thrilled hearing his exploits.

Thadakai rapturously hails him and all others follow. Mandodhari welcomes her husband with aarathi.

There is joy all round!

     *******

Thadakai is in deep thoughts in her dwelling… Ravanan reaches there and gets seated after paying her due regards.

Thadakai

 Though seeing you all after a long time is really joyful, but the time has come for me to depart.

Ravanan

Pattiyare!  Why this hurry? Please stay here for a few more days and then go.

Thadakai

 The various yagams conducted by Munivars are confirming that a new incarnation of Hari, our sworn enemy, is going to take place. We must destroy any such attempts at their very roots. As ordered by your grandfather, I have been guarding the   Northern boundary of your kingdom. No one can commence any yagam without my knowledge. Even if they start, they will not be able to finish it. Even if they finish, they cannot pass through me and come south… I have to continue guarding the territory to ensure that our clan flourishes without any hindrance. Let me start.

Ravanan

Pattiyare!  Easan is there as our help! Go without harbouring any worries!     

Thadakai

Easan, who is your benefactor, will be revered by me, from now on.  Before I reach my post,  I will visit His temple on the way and pray to Him.

Ravanan receives her blessings and she leaves.

     ****

Thadakai is flying north... Seeing a Sivalayam in the midst of fertile landscape nourished by the meandering Kaveri, she lands. Wanting to go inside immediately to have darisanam of Easan, she ponders for a few seconds looking around. Finding the scared tank of the temple nearby, she takes bath in it and plucks the flowers on its bank. Holding the flowers on her cupped palms very carefully, she enters the temple wearing the wet clothes with great reverence. She is dazed by the majestic and imposing stature of Easan. After bowing to Easan, she has to stand on her toes to place the flowers on His head. She lifts her hands above her head in supplication and prays. Taking the thiruneeru from the receptacle, she smears it on her forehead with great piety. Easan looks at His devotee standing in front of Him with compassion.

   ****

Thadakai reaches her abode and is welcomed by the asurars with honour.  She gets perplexed looking at her close friend Thenmozhi.

Thadakai

 Thenmozhi! Why are you downcast?

Thenmozhi

Arasiyare!  Thank goodness.. At last you have come now. A lot of things happened here in your absence..

Thadakai (cruelly contorting her face and in thundering voice)

 What all happened in my absence here?

 Her fierce retort makes even the asurars to shudder in fear.   Thadakai looks at her friend angrily as loud chanting of Veda mantram is heard at that very instant.

 Thenmozhi

Arasiyare! When you were away, sage Viswamittirar has started a yagam with about a thousand Anthanars. What you just now heard is their chanting..

Thadakai (still in anger)

Why didn’t you beat them up and drive them out?

Thenmozhi

Viswamittirar is highly short tempered. He would have cursed all of us by his mere looks.

Thadakai (irritated)

Did you leave him fearing death?

Thenmozhi (resolutely)

 Were we afraid of our death? We are asurars. We are not scared of anyone. We wanted to save our lives so that we can give you the news of happenings. You give us order now. We will immediately go and destroy the yagam.

She starts to go... Thadakai stops her and regains her composure.

Thadakai

Thenmozhi! What you told me is truth. I have spoken harshly and caused you pain... Only Hari can kill me. Viswamittiran can do nothing to harm me.   I will go there myself...

As she goes off and reaches the place of Yagam as whirlwind, the fire in the Yagakundam is extinguished... The Anthanars scamper in great alarm. Before Viswamittirar can make out as to what are happening, Thadakai stands in front of him.

 Thadakai (in a thundering voice)

Viswamittira! Aren’t you ashamed that instead of taking up a sword and leading an army being a Kshatriyan you are going around with a thousand Anthanars carrying dharba grass reciting Vedas? 

Leave aside that... Why have you come here and disturb our peace? Aren’t you aware that this the northern border of the kingdom of Ravaneswaran?

Viswamittirar

I am the one who taught the Gayatri mantram for the welfare of mankind... I am the reason why the Brahmins took the vow that they would follow the tenets of Vedas and lead an austere life. As I have studied the Vedas, chant them and teach them, I have become a Brahmin... I am duty bound to conduct yagams for the welfare of all in this world... That is why I have started the yagam here... The boundaries of kingdoms are meant for the kings and not for sages like us.... You have destroyed the yagam by entering here... You will get punished for this... that is a certainty!

He leaves the place angrily. Thadakai is shaken by the curse of the Munivar.

     ******

  Thadakai is sitting with a lot of thoughts running wild in her mind. Thenmozhi reaches there.

Thenmozhi

Arasiyare! You are seriously contemplating on something. I will come later...

Thadakai (preventing her from leaving)

What do you want to convey? Tell me now!

Thenmozhi

It appears that the furious Viswamittirar has proceeded towards Ayodhya.

Thadakai

Let him go wherever he wants!  My thoughts are somewhere else...

Thenmozhi

The curse of Munivar will never fail.

Thadakai (intervening angrily)

So what?

Thenmozhi

Your gallantry and daring are very well known to all. Still you need to be cautious...

Thadakai laughs aloud haughtily to the amazement of Thenmozhi.

Thadakai

Anyone who is born has to die one day.  If in my duty of guarding this boundary if I have to die due to the curse of the Munivar, I will face it bravely!  I am always thinking of attaining Mokhsham when I will have no rebirth. On my way back after seeing Ravanan, I visited the temple at Thiruppananthal.  I had the darisanam of Easan there. He alone is my lord and redeemer. He alone can terminate my rebirth.  From now onwards, it will be my sacred duty to place flowers on His head and pray at His feet every day.  If anyone disrupts my sacred duty, I will punish him with my sword...

Thenmozhi shudders in fear seeing her face contorted   in anger.

     ******

Thiruppananthal..   

Arriving there by air, Thadakai and Thenmozhi take their bath in the sacred temple tank. Plucking the flowers on its bank and carrying them in their hands, they reach the sannathi. Thatakai places the flowers on the head of Easan.   Stunned by the beauty of Easan, Thenmozhi loses her concentration and the flowers slip and fall to the ground from her palms. Thadakai becomes furious and her eyes go blood red in anger. Not knowing what to do, Thenmozhi looks at her confused. Thadakai takes out the sword from her hip and cuts off both the hands of Thenmozhi!

Thadakai

 You don’t need your hands which have committed a grave sacrilege of Easan by letting the flowers drop to the ground.

 She goes out and Thenmozhi runs following her with blood gushing from her shoulders. Hearing the sound of footsteps behind her, Thadakai looks behind.  Only then she realises what she has done in blind fury!

 Thadakai (with tears)

What a blunder I have committed?  I have gone mad on seeing a sacrilege against Easan.  I forget myself in the presence of Easan. My dear friend! I have committed a great wickedness to you.

Thenmozhi slides down unable to stand anymore. Thadakai rushes inside and bows to Easan and looks here and there looking for the limbs she chopped off. Finding them on the floor, she picks them up and runs outside.   Lifting Thenmozhi with her other hand she flies off with great speed to reach Sanjivini mountain quickly.   

   *******

In the cave of the mountain...

Thadakai is pacing up and down in deep thoughts.

Thenmozhi (hesitantly)

Arasiyare! Pardon me for interrupting your contemplation! What to do with the messenger who has come here? Shall we send him to Lankapuri to convey the message?

Thadakai

Our sworn enemy, Sri Hari has incarnated as Sri Raman in Ayodhya.... He is a small boy! Should we send a message that he is a threat to Asuraras? My grandson will laugh if he hears it... Without killing me no one can cross this northern boundary either on foot or by flying... My thoughts are always with my Easan in Thiruppananthal.  From now onwards I want to go there alone without any one accompanying me. I get into blind fury to chop off the limbs if I see anyone commits any sacrilege against Easan. You are a witness to it.

In horror Thenmozhi looks at her arms which have been restored now!

Thatakai

Wait! I will be back in a moment after having the darisanam of my Easan.

She flies off to Thiruppananthal.

    ******

Thiruppananthal....

 After taking her dip in the temple tank, Thadakai climbs on to the banks with wet clothes. Plucking the flowers and holding them in her cupped palms she enters the sannathi keeping her unwavering thoughts on Easan. Iraivan is decked up handsomely and she loses herself in His charm. She stands transfixed for a long time and regaining her thought she looks at her cupped palms overflowing with the plucked flowers.   As she tries to stand on her toes to reach the head of Easan to place the flowers as usual the cloth she is wearing around her waist starts slipping.  She holds the cloth at her hip with her elbows to prevent it from slipping off.    Only an arm’s length is left to reach the top of Easan’s sacred head. She is in great dilemma. If she raises her hands, the cloth may slip off her waist making her nude in front of Easan.  On the other hand, if she tries to place the flowers without raising her hands, the flowers may fall on the ground and it will be a sacrilege! Not knowing what to do, she starts chanting aloud “Om Namasivaya” repeatedly with tears in her eyes. The temple bells toll on their own resoundingly!  Wanting to remedy the difficulty of His devotee, Iraivan lowers His head so as to be in level with her palms holding the flowers. The flowers in her hands reach his head. Rearranging her cloth quickly, Thadakai looks at Easan. Tears flow off her eyes in torrents!

Thadakai (in a choking voice)

Iraiva!  Did you lower your head to save the honour of this arakki?  Your compassion is boundless! I have never shed tears in my life till now!  They are flowing like a river now! Is it because that I must reach your sacred feet now?  I have heard that you are addressed as Ammayappar! Today I have realised its true meaning! I am your slave forever and ever!

She bows to Easan and departs from there.

Even after she has left, the lowered head of Easan is not straightened up. Noticing that...

Annai 

Iraiva! I know you will not shirk from doing anything to ameliorate the sufferings of your devotees. Granting that, how come your have still not straightened up your head?

Easan

Devi! I am unable to do it!

Shocked to hear this reply Annai gets up.

Annai

Is there anything impossible for you to achieve?

Easan (looking at Annai with great strain)

 Really, I am unable to do it. Let us see if you can straighten it up!

Annai tries to straighten up his neck thinking it will be an easy job. Unable to lift it, she tries with all her might in vain. Bowing to Him, Annai goes in tears looking at Him.

Annai

 What is this? Is this also one of your divine games you want to play ?

Easan

 Only my dear friend can lift up my lowered head! I have to wait till that adiyavar comes here.

Annai

Are You going to remain like this till that time?

Easan

Do I have any other option?

Annai (perturbed)

 Who is that Adiyavar?

Easan

Kalayanathar

Annai

 When will he come? 

Easan

Well! It may take many hundreds of years!

Annai is shocked on hearing the reply!

   *******  

Thirukkadayur... 

A fertile place flourishing in plantain, coconut and paddy cultivation due to copious irrigation of the waters of Kaveri.

The temple of Amritagateswarar is located in the centre of the village. In the sannathi of Easan abhishekam of Easan with milk is being carried out. The devotees chant ‘Hara Hara Mahadeva’ hailing Easan with great piety.

Kalayanathar (to himself)

Iraiva! I am scared to even take a wink for I may lose Your precious sight even for that second!   You gave Amirtham to Devas and because of that they gained the capacity to remain without winking. If You grant me that ability, I will always be able to look at Your beautiful sacred form without batting my eyelids!

As tears well up in his eyes and obstruct his vision he quickly wipes them off. As the temple bells toll, deeparadhanai is conducted.  All the devotees shout “Om Namasivaya’ repeatedly. Kalayanathar receives Thiruneeru and smears on his forehead after bowing to Easan. All others do likewise. As he comes out of the temple and walks, his disciples follow him. They all reach the hundred pillared mantapam. As he gets seated, his disciples numbering twenty aged between ten to twelve years stand in front of him.

All the disciples (in unison)

Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheswara,

Guru Sakshat Parabrahmo, Tasmai Sri Guruve namah|

They all prostrate in front of their Guru and then take their seats.

Kalayanathar

Every temple has its own appointed tree (sthalavriksham), an appointed water body (sthalateertham) and its own history (sthalapuranam).  This temple of Veerattaneswarar is no exception and it also has all of the above three.

One of the Students (standing up and hesitantly)

I hear that the Easan   is called Amritagateswarar in this temple. You called Him as Veerattaneswarar! We are eager to hear the sthalapuranam of this temple. 

Kalayanathar

A very apt question! Since the Lingam is formed of Amirtham itself, He is called Amritagateswarar! As he took a valiant and fierce (veera) form to annihilate Yama, the Lord of Death to save Markandeyan, ‘Atta’ denotes eight. This is one of the eight temples where he took such valiant and fierce forms.  Therefore He is hailed as Veerattaneswarar.

The Next Student

We are eager to know what the other seven temples are.

Kalayanathar

We are highly blessed to be living with Thirunavukkarasar Peruman among us! It was Easan Veerattaneswarar of Thiruvadhikai who hailed and glorified Maruneekiyar as Navukkarasar! Navukkarasar has listed the eight famous temples of Easan in valiant form in one of his Thevarams.

He sings that Thevaram and not only his students but also the people around are fascinated hearing his sweet voice and the song.  All are eagerly waiting for his explanation of the Thevaram.

Kalayanathar

In Thirukkandiyur on the banks of the river Kaveri, He plucked the head of Brahma taking his valiant form. In this place of Thirukkadayur, to save Marekandeyan from the noose of Yama, he took this form. To save the universe from destruction, he took this form in Thiruvadhikai to destroy Tripuram. In a place called Vazhuvai, he took this fierce form to defeat an Asuran, in the form of an elephant. He skinned and wore the skin around his waist. Mounted on His Nandi, he killed Andakasuran in Thirukovilur   taking this fierce form.  Manmadhan who came to disturb His Yogic meditation at Korkai was burnt to ashes when He took this fierce form. In Thittaikudi, he again took this form to kill Salandirasuran. All these eight places are named Veerattam (The valiant eight) as Easan in the form of Lingam took a fierce and valiant form and Easan is also hailed as Veerattaneswarar.     

Sambho Mahadeva!

All the people shout ‘Hara Hara Mahadeva’   and bowing Easan disperse.

His disciples disperse after paying their respects to their guru.

    ******

 Kalayanathar...

 He is seated in a cot outside his house on coming back from the temple. He gets up quickly on seeing an adiyavar approaching him. He welcomes him and bows and touches his feet in reverence. His wife along with his three sons and two daughters also come out and bow to the adiyavar.

Kalayanathar (in great reverence)

It is said that darisanam of an adiyavar is as blessed as that of Easan Himself! It is perhaps due to the good deeds in of mine in my previous birth that I am fortunate to have you in my residence.   

Adiyavar is pleased on hearing these words. In the meantime, Kalayanathar’s wife and children bring the items for doing Padapujai and the couple performs Padapujai.

Adiyavar (highly pleased)

Ayyane! I belong to Thiruvadhikai. I always revere Thirunavukkarasar in my heart and mind. I am fascinated by his compositions of Thevaram. As I and my group go around all the temples and sing Thevaram, we are called ‘Thirukkoottaththar’ (Sacred Congregation).  As per the vow we have taken, I came to sing the composition of Appar at the Sannathi of Amritagateswarar.   Hearing you singing his songs in fine tune I was enthralled. Your commentary on them was highly impressive. I came here following you to meet you personally and to convey my compliments.    

Kalayanathar (thrilled)

Are you from Thiruvadhikai? Have you seen Thirunavukkarasar Peruman?

Adiyavar (laughing)

Aaha! I have been fortunate to visit many temples with Thirugyanasambandar and Thirunavukkarasar and hear their singing all along!  I am returning home after witnessing the miracle they created in Vedaranyam and the great joy they relished at Thiruvaymur.

Kalayanathar raises joined hands above his head in great reverence to the Adiyavar.

Kalayanathar

 I am very curious to hear about the miracle they created and the great joy they had in these places... Kindly tell me about these....

Adiyavar starts his narrative...

    ******

Both the great Nayanmars reach Vedaranyam after visiting many temples on the way. Thirunavukkarasar reaches there first and people assemble there to welcome him with traditional honour. Coming to know the imminent arrival of Sambandar, Navukkarasar takes all the people with him and accords a grand welcome to Sambandar. Seeing the two great Nayanmars together, the town’s people go into raptures and shout aloud ‘Hara Hara’ enthusiastically.  Soon both of them reach the temple of Vedavanaththayar. They are surprised to see the doors at the entrance of the Rajagopuram closed and people are accessing the temple through a small opening.

Navukkarasar

Why the beautiful way through the Rajagopuram is  kept closed?  Why people are walking through a small opening in the door?

Kovil Gurukkal 

The Anthanars closed the doors and carried out preservation once. The next day when we tried to open the doors, we could not do it. From that time onwards, we made a small opening to access the temple and we are using that opening only.

Sambandar

 Navukkarasare! We will go through the main entrance only. You sing Pathigams to make the doors of the gopuram to open.

Navukkarasar

I will do as you say!

Bowing to Sambandar, he starts singing. The songs flow one after another as steady stream. Even after a considerable time, the doors remain closed.  Ultimately he sings Thirukkadaikappu in great anguish and as he finishes, with a resounding noise the doors open on their own. With their eyes brimming with tears  for the grace of Easan  for this miracle, both of them with folded hands enter the golden canopied entrance with great reverence chanting “Om Namasivaya” followed by the people. The temple elephant gives joyful trumpet raising its trunk. The auspicious music is played through a variety of instruments.  Easan in His alluring dancing poise of Natarjar in the sannathi captivates one and all. Navukkarasar and Sambandar start singing alternatively in praise of Easan to the accompaniment of Yazh played beautifully by Thiruneelakantar. After the completion of puja, all of them come out through the Rajagopuram.

Navukkarasar   

Sambandar Perumane! You may please compose and sing songs so that the golden doors are able to open and close without any difficulty.

Sambandar sings and after the very first song, the doors close on their own with great noise. The Devas shower flowers from the sky witnessing this miracle. Sambandar composes and sings the balance nine songs in praise of Easan and finishes off by singing the eleventh as Thirukkadaikappu to complete the pathigam.

That night Navukkarasar is unable to have proper sleep and is greatly disturbed. Iraivan appears in his dream.

Easan

Appar Perumane!

Navukkarasar (bowing to him)

 Easane! Emperumane!  How great You are to appear before this insignificant man!

Easan

 I have come here to clarify the question nagging your mind. Open up and tell me what is troubling you.

Navukkarasar

  It took considerable effort to make the door open when I sang where as it shut very easily after the very first song by Sambandar!   He has given to Tamil the rare Vedic gems given by you originally. He is godhead personified! I have seen with my own eyes, the enormous power of his words!  

Hearing the anguished thirunavukkrasar, Iraivan   gives a smile.

Easan 

It was but my own words that he called you as ‘Appar’ the other day.  Orphan I was; I got   Karaikkal Ammayar as mother. I took you as farther.  Since your songs were very pleasing as nectar, I kept hearing it more and more.  The moment I realised you were agonised   I caused the doors to open. I was totally captivated   in the Sannathi by the songs from both of you.  A lot of time had passed.   When Sambanadan  started to sing to get the doors closed, I caused them to close after his very first song only for the simple reason that he is a young  lad of  sever years and  would not be able to tolerate his hunger any longer.  I conducted Myself as a child with you and as a father with Sambanadan.

As he disappears, Thirunavukkarasar wakes up from his dream.  Praising the Lord for His immeasurable grace, he goes back to sleep.  Waking up after a sound sleep next morning, he starts off to Thiruvaymur asking the passers by the route to reach there.   After covering a long distance, he finds a temple and enters there. At the same time Sambandar on coming to know that Thirunavukkarasar is going to Thiruvaymur also reaches there tracing his footsteps. On reaching the temple he is astonished not finding Easan in the sannathi. Thirugyanasambandar starts singing a pathigam and as he finishes it, the sound of conch shell is heard. Iraivan along with Annai appears mounted on his vahanam. Both the Perumanar s stand spell bound cherishing the divine darisanam of Iraivan. Thirunavukkarasar starts singing in praise of Easan describing the beautiful apparition they are witnessing of Easan and Annai. Both of them sing alternatively beautiful compositions on Easan.  Savouring their soulful songs, Easan rises with Annai and gets off from his vahanam.   Both of them are witness to the rarest of rare sights even for the Devas in heaven! Annai and Easan are sporting the costume for their divine dance.

Easan

In Thiruvalangadu, we performed the Urdava Thandavam for the pleasure of my Ammai (Karaikkal Ammayar). For my Appar (Navukkarasar), we will perform Ananda Thandavam here!

 They commence their celestial Anandanatanam to the accompaniment of Nandi on Mridangam, Vani on Veena, Naradar on Tambura and the Siva Ganas on various other musical instruments.  Both the Nayanmars compose many songs on witnessing such a rare divine event which no one else can ever witness.

      ******

 Kalayanathar’s house..... The Adiyavar concludes his narration and Kalayanathar   is overcome with emotion.

Adiyavar (continues)

Navukkarasar Peruman is setting a great example of service by his act of repairing and cleaning the temples. The seven year old Sambandar is composing beautiful songs praising of Easan and bringing

name and fame. We are truly fortunate to be living during their time.

Adiyavar bows to Easan.  Kalayanathar who has been flabbergasted by the narrative regains his composure and looks up the Adiyavar.

Kalayanathar (in great anguish)

 It is obvious from your narration that both Appar and Sambandar are great favourites of Easan and they enjoy His unlimited love. I am an insignificant person and I neither have the skill of doing temple work like Appar nor the capacity to compose songs like Sambandar.  What service can I render to obtain the grace of Iraivan?

Adiyavar

You are unaware of your greatness!  When Sambandar as a baby cried of hunger, Easan appeared there along with Annai. He asked both of them to come to Thiruvaymur and gave them his divine darisanam with Annai.  And for you... He is waiting for your arrival!

Kalayanathar

 I am unable to understand what you are saying. How can Iraivan be waiting for my arrival?

Adiyavar

 When we say Aanma is going in search of Peraanma, does it not imply that Iraivan is waiting for that Aanma?

Kalayanathar 

 When will Aanma recognise and understand Peraanma?

Adiyavar (mischievously)

You ask your own Aanma! It will give you the answer!

Kalayanathar looks at the Adiyavar in amazement as he walks away towards the Amritagateswarar temple.  Soon he merges into the air and disappears.

     ******

 The next day... As Kalayanathar enters the Patasalai, his students rise and pay their respects to their guru. Along with his students   some elders are standing.  Taken aback seeing the new comers, Kalayanathar welcomes them and gets seated. The students as usual say their morning prayers of Guru and take their seats while the elders keep standing and pay their respects to Kalayanathar.

 Kalayanathar

It appears you are all new to this town! 

Anthanar 1

 You are right! We are all coming from Kanchipuram.  After we had darisanam of Amritagateswarar in the early morning, we are here waiting for you.

Kalayanathar

 What for are you waiting for me?

Anthanar 1

At Kanchipuram, Easan as Ekambarar has the impression of the forehead, wrist adorned with bangles and her nipples of Annai Kamatchi stamped on his body.  We heard that   he sports   the impression of a rope and is also split into two in the temple here! So we came to have a darisanam of Easan.  When we enquired in the temple whether there was anyone in this town who could clarify some of our doubts in the Vedas, they indicated you.  That is why we came here and waited for you.

He takes his seat.

One of his students (getting up)

 The information about Easan given by the elder has kindled our curiosity. How can there be marks on the body of Easan? We want to learn about them... Kindly tell us about it.

The way the student submitted his request impresses the outsiders.

Kalayanathar narrates the events...

   *****

Thirukailayam...

Easan is in deep meditation Annai reaches there and for a second a prank enters her mind...

Tiptoeing, She goes behind Easan and covers His eyes with Her palms so as to close them..... As she does it, the entire universe gets engulfed in darkness. ... There is chaos, agony and anguished cries from everywhere... Shocked, she withdraws her hands quickly... The universe returns to normal. Realising her folly, she stands with her head down.  Easan looks up at Her and there is sadness in His expression.

Annai (still in a state of shock)

 Iraiva! In my infatuation, I closed your eyes ... I realise now that You are the entire universe!   Kindly pardon my mistake..

Cupping her palms in reverence she pleads to Easan.

Few tear drops fall off the Eyes of Easan which turn into Rudrakshams.

Seeing them Annai is greatly anguished.

Annai

 It is I who committed the mistake.. Why must you shed tears for that?

Easan

Because, the one who commits mistake has to undergo the punishment!

Annai (taken aback)

What? Am I to be punished?

Easan (sadly)

Since You committed a mistake due to infatuation, You will have to leave me ..

Annai (shedding tears)

What! Am I to be separated from You?

Easan

Since I am the reason for your committing the mistake, I am also liable for punishment...   To remain separated from You, that is the punishment for Me! 

Easan disappears from there, leaving Annai behind, who stands not knowing what to do further..

 Seven Munivars reach there and bow to Annai.  She looks forlorn.

Vasishtar (in a sorrowful voice)

Annaye! We rushed here when the universe was engulfed in pith darkness.. We stand bewildered on knowing its reason... We are highly anguished that You have to live separated from Ayyan and Ayyan has to bear the agony of having to live alone...   

Annai (pleading)

 Vasishta mahamuniye! Only you can show me a way to overcome this difficult situation...

Vasishtar

Annaye!  You go to Kadambavanam in the South. Installing the idol of Easan and praying to Him , He will join with You at the appropriate time.

After paying her respects to the Munivars, Annai disappears in the sky.

     *******

Kadambavanam...

Annai reaches there and looks for a suitable place for her penance. The river Kambai is flowing   serenely. Finding a place near its banks where there is a sand dune, She decides that to be the suitable site. She creates the idol of Iraivan out of the sand with Her own hands in the form of Lingam. She performs puja and closing Her eyes She goes into deep meditation of Easan.  

The time flies.

  Realising that the time has come to join Her to end His distress, Easan becomes happy. The rivers become full. The river Kambai goes in spates and breaking its banks enters Kadambavanam.  Feeling that she is getting wet, Annai opens her eyes and finds the flood water surrounding Her.  Afraid that the idol of Iraivan created out of sand by Her may be washed off by the flood waters, She embraces the idol tightly.  In the process, Her forehead, he wrists having bangles and her nipples mark their impressions on the body of Easan.  Bound by Her deep and abiding love, Easan appears there.

Easan

Annaye! Bound by your unfathomable love, I shall ever remain hear having the body of   made of sand   sporting the divine impressions left by Your body... You will remain with me nearby as Annai Kamatchi!

 This place will be one of the Panchabhootha Sthalams relating to Bhoomi (earth) .

Annai reunites with Easan with folded hands!

      *******

Vilvavanam...

 A Munivar is embarked on a severe penance. Please with his devotion and due to the power   of his penance Brahman appears before him.

Brahman (calling out passionately)

Mrigandu Munivare!

Munivar opens his eyes and prostrates in front of Brahman.

Brahman

Munivare!  May I know what are you seeking through this penance? Do you want gold? Do you want wealth?  Ask Me whatever you want without any hesitation. I will grant them to You.

Mrigandu Munivar (in choking voice, overcome with emotion)

Being a Munivar,  I have no need for either gold or wealth. Aren’t You aware what I long for? 

 Saying this, he sheds copious tears. Brahman looks at him with great compassion.

Brahman

I am aware!  Still, let whatever you need be pronounced by you.

Munivar (bowing to Brahman)

A man’s life is complete only if he gets a progeny to further his clan. Please grant me a child so that my clan may flourish.

Brahman

Do you want to beget a most foolish son who will live up to hundred years or a brilliant wise one who will live for only sixteen years?

Munivar (bowing)

There is use for anyone if a foolish fellow lives even for a thousand years…   A wise man on the other hand   will help the fellow beings to tread the noble path though he may have a short lifespan. You grant me only a Gyani who will live for sixteen years.

The Munivar pleads to Brahman with his head bowed down. A reply is heard, “So be it”.  The Munivar lifts his head and finds that Brahman has vanished!

    ******

Parnasalai..

 Munikumaran performs all the duties enjoined upon him as a son to his parents and gets ready for his study of Vedas. Though highly pleased by his act, the parents are equally distressed at the same time.

Thai (speaking to the Munivar)

Markandeyan is going to be sixteen. I am heartbroken as he is destined to leave us …. A mother always yearns that her son has a long life, be he a scholar or an idiot…  Loss of a child is the most distressing for any parent…   Why did you get such a boon from Brahman without realising this?  

Markandeyan enters listening to her mother’s agonized words. He catches hold of his mother’s feet.

Markandeyan

Thaye! What can my father do if I am destined like this? Please do not be angry with him. To live as a foolish man is as good as being dead. There is no use of him for anyone or anything. A knowledgeable man brings glory and makes his parents proud! 

Mrigandu Munivar 

Tell me son! How a father of a knowledgeable man gains glory?

Markandeyan (brightening up)

Thanthaye! Iraivan alone is Paramatma..   All other living things including us are Jivatmas.  Why must Iraivan create the Jivatmas?

Munivar waits for his son himself to answer the question.

Markandeyan

That the Jivatmas must realise the Paramatma is the sole reason for the creation of Jivatmas! The Vedas show us the way to understand Iraivan.  One must have wisdom to comprehend Easan. A foolish person cannot realise Iraivan… That is why I said that a   knowledgeable man brings glory to his parents.    

Mrigandu Munivar 

Aaha! No one has explained the virtue of being born in such a concise way. We are really proud to have begotten you as our son.

However he becomes sad thinking that his son will be separated from them soon.

Markandeyan

Thanthaye! Now that I know I have only a meager life left, I want to spend the rest of my days visiting various temples and have darisanam of Easan.

Thai

 Mahane! I cannot live even for a second without you. If you leave us and go away alone, I will be distressed worrying about you every moment.

 Markandeyan (praying to his parents)

Thaye! I will return here when I am about to complete my age of sixteen. My life will depart   at the feet of Amritagateswarar only. Please permit me to go.

With heavy hearts, they give their consent to him for going away.

     ******

Markandeyan returns after his sojourn carrying a pot on his head. His parents happily receive him and take hold of the pot.

Markandeyan

Thanthaye! Thaye! I have visited many great temples and reached Kasi at last. After praying to Easan Viswanathar there, I returned carrying this pot of   Gangaineer for performing Abhishekam to Amritagateswarar.

His mother starts shedding tears and his father is also forlorn.

Markandeyan

Thanthaye! I know! To by noon, I will complete sixteen years of my life. What will happen after that?

He looks at his parents with tears welling up in his eyes blocking his vision.

Thai (crying)

Mahane! The moment you leave us, I will follow you. What have I got in this world after you leave?

Markandeyan

This life is granted by Iraivan… We have no right to terminate it without His will! If you take way your life for my sake, it will do no good to me for my further journey! Whatever happens is willed by Easan alone.  Let whatever is in store for me happen at the sacred feet of Easan!

 He bows to his parents and carrying the pot on his head walks towards the temple.

    *********

 The temple of Amritagateswarar…

As Markandeyan pours the Gangaineer from the pot and performs Abhishekam of Easan, Vedic chants are heard on their own! He covers Easan with new clothes and decorates Him with fine flower garlands. In the light of the deepam, Easan glitters like a thousand sons. Lost in the beauty of Easan and chanting Panchakshara mantram, Markandeyan embraces Easan … His destined life ends at that moment. Yaman reaches there and throws the lasso to capture his Aanma and pulls it.  As the rope binds Markandeyan as well as Easan in his embrace, its impression gets stamped on the Easan’s divine body! At that very moment Easan emerges furiously splitting the Lingam into two.  As Yaman stands transfixed seeing the fury of Easan not knowing what to do, Easan kicks him away with his left foot. 

Easan (wrathfully)

How dare you come to take away the life of my adiyavar when he is praying to Me? You have committed a grave sacrilege! I will not let you go alive!

Brahman, Indiran and all other Devas rush  there and praying to Easan plead for peace. Easan calms down.

Yaman (shaking in fear and pleading to Easan)

As I am doing my duty by throwing the lasso, it bound Easan’s divine body also. I have committed a grave sin without my realization. Kindly pardon me and permit me to complete my duty.

Easan

Markandeyan, My Adiyavar, has won over his death by embracing Me. He will never die! 

Yaman (confused)

Does this mean that the boon granted by Brahman has come to naught?

Brahman

Those who reach the feet of Easan has conquered even Yaman… There is no “death” for them.  At the same time the boon I have granted will also not become invalid…. He will remain in the age of sixteen for ever…

He blesses Markandeyan and the Devas shower flowers from heaven.

Yaman (still confused and bowing to Brahman)

How will I know that the person is a Sivanadiyar when I come, as destined, to take his life? Am I or Am I not supposed to take the life of an adiyavar?

Brahman

When an adiyavar‘s life is about to be terminated, the Sivaganas will come to take away his Aanma instead of Yaman or his forces.

All of them bow to Easan and depart.

     *******

Vedapatasalai…

Kalayanathar

The mark of the rope and the split remain as they are and mark the episode of Easan coming to the rescue of his adiyavar.  The seeds of various flower plants in the Gangaineer poured on Easn by Markandeyan took root and the flowers you see decorating Easan today are all from those plants only. This place is therefore also called Pinchilavanam apart from its name of Vilvavanam.

One student gets up as if to ask something and Kalayanathar nods his head indicating him to proceed.

The Student (hesitantly)

Guruve! There is a variation in what you narrated and what my father told me..

 Kalayanathar

Tell me! What is the difference?

The Student

He said, “Markandeyan, on seeing Yaman with lasso in his hand runs inside to the Sannadhi   and hugs Easan out of fear”.  You said that he was lost in seeing the beauty of Easan and embraced Him. Which is right?

The visitors are curious to know the answer as they also harbor the same doubt.  

Kalayanathar

Yaman cannot be seen by anyone… The one who comes without anyone knowing about it, is Kaalan! 

He will take away the life in a wink… Only common people are afraid of death. Gyanis are never scared of death. Markandeyan is a Gyani.  Will he ever be afraid of death? It is nothing but the act of Easan when he embraced Him realising that his end is near. To make the world understand the principle of Saranagathi, Iraivan enacted this whole drama - ordaining his age as sixteen, hailing him as Gyani, getting Yaman , making Markandeyan to embrace Him ,  kicking away Yaman and granting the boon to remain at the age of sixteen for ever…

Highly impressed by his explanation, the Kanchi Anthanars convey their great surprise and respect.

Kalayanathar (looking at them)

You may ask your doubts if you please.

Anthanar 1 (hesitantly)

From the name of a person, one can make out his caste. But your name sounds slightly different!

Kalayanathar

I was named only as Kalayan! They give a title of ‘Nathan’ to anyone who imparts education and skill. As I am teaching Vedas, the people of this town call me Kalayanathar. Kalayan is the sacred name of Easan residing in the temple of this town. When Devas and Asuras churned the Parkadal (Ocean of Milk), Amirtham came out of the ocean. It was gathered in a pot and both sides wanted to find a suitable place where they could share it among themselves.  Finding this very town as the most suitable place, they kept the pot on the ground and went to river Kaveri to have their bath.  When they returned, the pot containing Amirtham has transformed into a Lingam. That is the reason that Easan residing here is called Amritagateswarar. As the Kalayam (pot) transformed into Nathan (Easan), he is called Kalayanathar.     

One of the Students (standing up)

If the Amirtham transformed into Lingam, how did the Devas and Asuras could share it?

Kalayanathar (sporting a smile)

When both Asuras and Devas pleaded with Easan for the pot of Amirtham, a hearty laugh emanated from the Lingam. The pot also reappeared with Amirtham. The Devas and Asuras received the pot without understanding the reason for the laughter of Easan. You all know what happened later on.

 Not aware of the further story, the students look depressed. Sensing their curiosity, Kalayanathar laughs aloud.

Kalayanathar

Very fine! I will tell you what all happened later. There was a tussle among the Devas and Asuras in sharing the Amirtham. Devas claimed that they were the rightful claimants being elder to Asuras. Asuras claimed that without their assistance, they would not have been able to churn the Parkadal. As their arguments was heating up Thirumal in the avataram of Mohini reached there and promised that He would split the Amirtham and hand over to both the parties. Infatuated by Her beauty, Asuras accepted that proposal. Realising that if Asuras consumed Amirtham, they would not die and the universe would be worse off, She evolved a plan to deprive them of their share. She made Asuras and Devas to site on two different sides. Dancing Her way to captivate the Asuras, She ensured that Amirtham was given only to Devas for consumption. Bewitched by Her beauty, Asuras did not realise that they were being duped. After the entire stock is distributed to Devas She disappears.   Realising that they were cheated, the Asuras became very angry and took a vow that from then onwards Devas and Thirumal would be their enemies forever.  The   reason for the fight between the Devas and Asuras is basically due to Amirtham!

Anthanar

You said that Easan gave a resounding laugh when the Devas and Asuras pleaded to Him for the pot containing Amirtham. Can you please tell us the reason for Easan’s laughter!

Kalayanathar

The sacred feet of Easan itself will grant everlasting life without death!  It is evident from the episode of Markandeyan! Was it not foolish of Devas and Asuras to ask for Amirtham when Easan Himself was in front of them? Easan laughed at their ignorance! 

All the Anthanars (in appreciation)

Aaha! What a fantastic explanation!

Kalayanathar

Anthanargale! You said that you wanted to clarify some doubts in Vedas. You may now ask your questions!

Anthanar

We are able to recite the Veda mantras properly but if we know the meaning also, it will be very good. The Vedas are as huge as oceans. One lifetime may not be sufficient to discern the meaning of the four Vedas.  Sanskrit being not spoken as a language, we do not understand the meaning of some of the words.. Perhaps you may help us in this regard.

Kalayanathar

There are Upanishads created by great people to clarify and elaborate the Vedas. Though there are one hundred and eight of them, only fourteen are in vogue.  Clarification of which one of them you want?

There is some confusion among the visitors. One of them gets up and looks up to Kalayanathar.

Anthanar  

We are not even knowledgeable enough to ask from which Upanishad we need clarification.... Even if you can clarify an item on which we have frequent debates, it will be sufficient for the present.. It is said that all humans have Aanma, life and mind! Are they same or different from each other? In which part of the human body, they reside? Who controls their action?

Kalayanathar

Your first question is whether Aanma, Life and mind are same or different. The answer is they are distinctly different. Aanma does not perish! It is because it has come from indestructible Peraanma that is Iraivan! How to prove this? It can be proved only by the elaboration of Vedas. The life is perishable. Whatever is born has to die one day! The third is the mind, that which gives the ability to discern ‘I’ or ‘Me’ or mine. It will perish along with the life and body.
Your next question is -where these reside? A chili pepper is pungent from its top to bottom. Even the seeds inside are hot! Likewise, these three are present throughout our body. When the body cast on death, all of them leave.

Your third question- Who makes them function or controls them?

The answer to this question is given by Kena Upanishad. It is also called Thalavakara Upanishad as it details the ninth Thalavakara part of Sama Veda. There are thirty five aphorisms in Kena Upanishad. This is written in the form of questions and answers in four parts. It starts with the first question in the first part as to who is making the five senses of the body to function.   In the next part it gives the answer as “Aanma”.  In the third part it justifies that Aanma is the basis of functioning. In the fourth part it details the method and fundamental skills required to understand it.

We will see them in detail now.

We see with our eyes, smell with our nose, taste with our mouth and sense the touch with our body.  Who is getting these things done? Is it Mind, Life or Aanma?

 The sun, the moon, the stars and this earth are all functioning so also the wind, the water and the Agni.

How? Who is making them function?

I will reply to this question now...

When the life ebbs away from the body, ‘Pran’ or ‘Aanma’ leaves. While stoppage of breathing can be revived by resuscitation with medical help, once the Pran leaves, the life cannot be revived. Now the question may arise why not Pran itself is not life! Even when the life is present in the body, the eyes cannot see, the ears cannot hear, the nose cannot smell, the mouth cannot taste and the body cannot feel. It therefore proves that there is no link between life and the ability of these five sensory limbs to perform. So we are able to note that Life and Pran are not same but two different things.  Therefore for the functioning of the body Pran is required.  Similarly for the functioning of the cosmos, Pran is essential. This Pran is present in the entire cosmos and ensures its functioning. It is also making us function though only a miniscule portion of the Pran is needed for our bodily functions. The Pran that makes the cosmos function is Peraanma! The tiny part of that Peraanma is Aanma and that Aanma is making our body to function. Once Aanma leaves the body, the life and the mind cease to exist.

One of the Anthanars

Aaha! A brilliant exposition! But I have question...   You said that like a chili pepper which is pungent from its top to bottom, Aanma, Mind and Life are present throughout our body. We can discern that an item is hot by tasting it.  Likewise, how can we distinguish Aanma with any degree of certainty?

Kalayanathar

 This cosmos is functioning. It is not functioning on its own accord. Its functioning is bound by certain definitive rules. Will it be possible to predict accurately the occurrence of new moon, full moon, the solar and lunar eclipses etc if it is otherwise?    This entire cosmos functions bound by definitive rules is a statement of fact. These rules have neither a beginning nor an end. If it were, the functioning of the cosmos will not continue forever.  So the rules which will never perish are spread throughout the cosmos. We are also bound by these very same rules, a miniscule part of which has entered in us. Once our functions stop, it separates from us and unites with cosmic whole! 

 What do the Gyanis say?

I will repeat exactly what they say...

Within the body and the mind, there is an indestructible truthful entity. That factual entity has no birth or death. It functions on its own but at the same time bound by certain rules. That alone is Aanma! It is spread throughout our body along with life and mind. It has no shape. We need eyes to see external objects. To see Aanma which exists internally, one needs Gyanam!  We give that indestructible entity a form in stone and metals and call It Iraivan! Aren’t we aware that it is stone or metal when we worship Him?  Still... To worship them taking them as Iraivan is the first step for searching and finding Aanma which is hidden in us!  

The path to realise Aanma through Gyanam cannot be shown by others. It has to be through one’s own 

Self realisation only!  For gaining Gyanam, the basis is through control of senses by doing penance. So those who want to realise Aanma must undertake the tasks connected with control of senses. It is impossible to reach Peraanma without self examination and self realisation.

 The visiting Anthanars express their happiness vociferously. One of them gets up with a little trepidation.

Anthanar

Ayyare! You have cleared our doubts regarding Aanma... But I have a doubt ...  Being a great Gyani yourself, have you searched and found Aanma? 

Kalayanathar gives a blank look at the person who posed this question. His thoughts appear to be centered elsewhere!

Kalayanathar

No! I have not realised my Aanma till now! In fact, only now, I have got the urge to realise it even!

As he gets up, his students and the visitors bow to him and take their leave. Kalayanathar remains standing there after all of them left for a long time.

The next day....

Kalayanathar is sitting in the front porch of his house.  His mind is absorbed in deep thought. The students from Vedapatasalai reach there and pay their respects to their guru.

One of the students (hesitantly)

Aacharayane! We have been waiting for a long time in the Patasalai for your arrival in vain... We have therefore come here ...

Kalayanathar raises his hand to interrupt the student from speaking further. The student stops talking and closing his mouth with his hand stands in silence.

 Kalayanathar

Till yesterday, I was thinking that I had been performing my duties diligently... I thought that the duty of an Anthanar ends in learning Vedas and teaching the same to others properly ... The Anthanars from Kanchi had made me realise and indicated to me that there is one more task for me to do... Now I must start my search... I have to realise my Aanma... As a first step , I must go to the temple of Amritagateswarar and keep Him in my mind as Iraivan and not merely an Amritakalasam. Then only I will be able to realise my Aanma... I have been lecturing everyone about Aanma without knowing it myself!  So how will I be able to explain the Vedic principles to you? 

 He gets up and the students being dismissed like this leave there with a heavy heart.

    ******

The temple of Amritagateswarar...

Easan’s  sannathi.....

Easan bright as a thousand sons glittering at the same time is looking at Kalayanathar standing there with great compassion.

Easan  

Adiyavare! You have started your search of Aanma! My blessings for your success!

Not hearing a word of   Easan, Kalayanathar keeps standing looking intently at Easan.

Easan (again) 

Only when you are able to hear what I speak, you will realise Aanma and Me!

Easan raises His hands and the temple bells toll with great noise!

    *****

Kalayanathar comes out of the Sannathi and sees the temple in charge (Puravalar) coming towards him. He looks very depressed.

Kalayanathar

Puravalare! Why are you looking forlorn? May I know the reason?

Puravalar

Anthanare! Our town’s people enthusiastically compete with each other to take on any work for the temple... except for one particular item...

Kalayanathar looks at him eagerly.

Kalayanathar

What is that work? Why people are not coming forward to undertake it? Is that very strenuous to do?

Puravalar

Our people readily come forward to undertake any strenuous work for the temple. Still only for this particular task, there are no volunteers.

Kalayanathar

 Ayya! You have kindled my curiosity! What is that work which the people have refused to undertake?

Puravalar

It is the Kungiliya Sevai (ritual)!

Kalayanathar

I have never witnessed such a ritual here till now!

Puravalar

Very true! Since no one has been prepared to undertake this ritual, the same has not been performed here so far.  Kungiliyam is a precious and rare commodity... It has to be brought here from mountainous regions. If it were growing here, there would have been no problem at all.   It is found in between the barks of Maruda trees which grow in mountainous regions only... It has superb medicinal properties... It cures hemorrhoids and other bleeding injuries... Its smoke when put on fire, disinfects and kills germs and drives away insects. Even negative energies  vanish by its power. But it is very expensive to buy... And it has to be used throughout the year...  I don’t know who will take this responsibility in this town to do this Sevai!

Kalayanathar (responding calmly to his dejected tone)

Why? Am I not here?

Puravalar (surprised)

Will you?

Kalayanathar

Yes! Puravalare! I wanted to start my search after showing the Deepam (lamp) to Easan but   Easan perhaps wills that I start after showing Dhupam (smoke)!

Puravalar

I am unable to understand what you are saying.

Kalayanathar

But Veeratatanar understands!

He walks away leaving the astonished Puravalar behind!

    *******

The village folks are surprised to see Kalayanathar carrying a heavy sack on his back, entering the temple.

Kalayanathar reaches the store area and looks around whether any one is around.  The storekeeper reaches there and help Kalayanathar unload the heavy sack and puts on the floor.

The Storekeeper

Aacharayane!  Used to light work being an Anthanar, How come you carried this heavy load all the way here? What is in the sack?

Kalayanathar

From now onwards, only I am going to do the Kungiliya Sevai for Veeratatanar. This is for that purpose.

Rushing to the temple madappalli (cooking place), he brings a few burning coal pieces and places them in pan found there   for lighting the Kungiliyam. He enters the sannathi and places the pan in front of Easan. As he sprinkles a few pinches of the powder on the fire, an aromatic smoke arises and engulfs the entire sannathi... As the   pleasant smell enters his body, he finds that his mind is cleansed and at peace! His body, life, mind and Aanma are transfixed as he stands there in the sannathi for a very long time.... 

Regaining his senses, he starts to return home.

   *******

Kalayanathar’s house...

Excited to see her husband returning home, his wife rushes inside and brings all the items needed for performing Padapujai.

 As Kalayanathar enters his house, he is welcomed with great respect by his wife and children. Making him stand on the Tambalam, his wife washes his feet with clean water and dries them with a towel. Decorating his feet with sandalwood paste, kunkumam and flowers, she worships him.   His children bow to him and worship him by picking the flowers from his feet and touching their closed eyelids with them as a mark of great respect. Surprised by this unusual reception, Kalayanathar gives a questioning look to his wife!    

His Wife (elated)

You have been an Aacharyan all these days. Now you have become an adiyavar! Seeing you is equal to seeing Easan Himself! (Adiyavar darisanam is Andavan darisanam) So please bless us...  

She bows to her bewildered husband again.

Kalayanathar (to himself)

Is this how Jivaatma transforms into Paramatma?  I know I am Kalayanathan!  But in my wife’s eyes...   as Veerattanathan... What is this mystery?

Kalayanathar enters inside. He looks around feeling puzzled.

Kalayanathar (to himself)

There is some difference... What is that? Is it external or internal?

He looks steadily up at the sky....  He feels as if struck by a thousand thunderbolts...He falls flat like an uprooted tree.  Rattled, his wife tries to support him and revive him from unconsciousness....

Iraivan is witnessing all these happenings....

     ****

Amritagateswarar temple...

Sacks are getting unloaded in the store area. The storekeeper is stacking them on wooden shelves in the store room. Kalayanathar reaches there.  The storekeeper welcomes him with due respects.

The storekeeper

Perumane! Why so many sacks of Kungiliyam have been bought? These will last for many, many years!  Can’t you buy them as and when stocks finish?

Kalayanathar

Kungiliyam is a rare commodity. Isn’t it better to procure them when they are available? Only then we can ensure that Kungiliya Sevai is done without any break when the item becomes scarce.

The storekeeper wants to say something but stops half way.

Kalayanathar

Kaappaalare!  You wanted to say some thing... Go ahead and tell me whatever it is without any hesitation...

The storekeeper

There is no one like you to teach and explain Vedas in and around this village..... Students used to come from far and wide to learn the Vedas from you. .. Since you are devoting your entire time in this temple work, they are returning disappointed...  You are supposed to be imparting knowledge to others...  I am not able to bear you ignoring your duty.

Kalayanathar

I have undertaken the search of my Aanma.... When I do not have knowledge of my own self, how can impart knowledge to others?  

He starts his temple work...

The storekeeper (to himself in disgust)

 What a pity? Leaving his profitable profession of teaching and earning money, he is going around the temple carrying the pan and spreading the Kungiliyam smoke. What is he going to gain? Thankfully, there are some lands left by his ancestors for his family to survive... Otherwise can he waste his time going around with a burning pan?   Knowledge should be only up to a certain limit.  If it exceeds, one will roam around as a madcap like this.

    ******

The whole town is busy with bumper harvest and the farmers are getting good returns on their produce. Kalayanathar also returns home with plenty of gold and other items and hands them over to his wife. His wife takes the purse of gold and places it in the puja room in front of the deities.

His Wife (to herself)

I have only heard of bumper harvests... I have seen it now with my own eyes. The harvest has been exceedingly good. Iraiva! It is all because of Your grace!

After prostrating in front of Easan, she comes out and looks up at her husband.  His countenance is calm showing no expression.

His Wife (joyfully)

Pleased by your Kungiliya Sevai, Iraivan has blessed us with this bounty...  

Kalayanathar signals his wife to come near him and as she comes closer...

Kalayanathar

These are all acts of Easan.. He is the One who gives and also the One who takes it away...   Like the gold that is needed to be melted in fire and beaten with a hammer to remove the impurities, the Aanma also has to cast off its impurities  to reach the sacred feet of Iraivan ... It has to be prepared to undergo any kinds of trials and tribulations for that! Gyanis neither feel delighted on getting wealth   nor feel dejected when it is taken away!

He touches the Agnyachakra of his wife .... 

Everything starts revolving around her and she falls down unconscious.... After a long time, she opens her eyes .... Her husband is not to be seen....

    ******

Time passes ... days into weeks into months into years...

Kalayanathar’s Kungiliya Sevai continues without a hitch.   As good times and bad times repeat cyclically in nature, Thirukkadayur and surrounding villages face severe drought. There is no farming and people are not having even gruel to eat. Devoid of visitors, even   the temple is empty. Still Kalayanathar goes around with his pan doing his Kungiliya Sevai. The Puravalar comes there and seeing Kalayanathar stops and bows to him.

Puravalar (exclaiming)

Anthanar Sironmaniye! The whole village is in turmoil due to famine... Lot of people are leaving the village... But you are still continuing with this service of Easan as if nothing has ever changed! Your devotion is truly great!

Kalayanathar looks up and there appears to be no reaction to whatever he has heard. Puravalar bows to him again and leaves knowing full well that nothing he has spoken has fallen on his ears.

The storekeeper, who has been hearing the Puravalar speaking to him from a distance, comes closer.  Looking at him in ridicule...

The Storekeeper (to himself)

It is only a matter of two more days.. Once the stock of Kungiliyam is finished this man will stop coming...    Amritagateswarar will then be left alone as “Ekambarar”.

After Kalayanathar goes past him without giving him even a look.....

The Storekeeper (Shouting irritated)

What arrogance he has? He does not even see me standing here. He goes away not even giving me a nod. Does one become cranky if he accumulates knowledge?   

 Hearing his own loud retort returning as echo from the walls of the mantapam, the storekeeper rushes to the store area in fear and haste.

Kalayanathar carries on with his service unaware and unmindful of all these happenings.

      *****

One day...  

As Kalayanathar’s wife comes of Easan sannathi, the Storekeeper confronts her.

The Storekeeper (standing on her way)

Hey! Aren’t you the wife of Kalayanathar?

Disgusted by his impudence, she walks away ignoring his question.

The Storekeeper

Please stop for a moment.

Now that he has spoken respectfully, she stops and the Storekeeper comes near her.

The Storekeeper

Amma! How can your husband behave like this?  Kalayanathar’s Wife
Address him properly as Veda Aacharyan!  Anyway, what has he done?

The Storekeeper (thinking)

Not only me, but the whole town is laughing at him... Instead of teaching Vedas, he is roaming around carrying the pan in his hand...

Kalayanathar’s Wife (discerning his thoughts in a strict tone)
So what if the whole town laughs at him? Tell me what you want to say?

The Storekeeper (confused as to how she came to his thoughts)

You see... the whole town is suffering due to famine... People are distressed not able to get even a handful of gruel. Is Kungiliya Sevai to Easan very essential now? I hear that he has sold of his agricultural lands for a pittance! He is mad... totally mad... At least he should have purchased some provisions out of the money he got. I am told that he spent the entire money in buying Kungiliyam.  Who is bothered whether or not Kungiliyam is available here? Is   Easan concerned?   Can he distinguish fragrance of Kungiliyam from something else? What is so great about his Kungiliya Sevai? He is but a grave sinner for making his family to starve?

Kalayanathar’s Wife (angrily)

Enough! You better stop now. I am pardoning you just because you are serving in the temple of Easan... He is my husband and is the Aacharyan of this entire town. How dare you speak ill of him, that too in front of me? The land he sold off is not yours by any reckoning. That was his ancestral property. As far as Kungiliya Sevai, it may appear to you as just generating smoke. But for him, it is a sacred penance. He is staunch in his beliefs and will not forgo his penance for whatever reason... Who told you that we are starving?  Emperuman, Easan is the care taker of all. He is compassionate. He will never forsake His people.    Working in His very temple how dare you speak ill of him?

She leaves the place fuming.

The Storekeeper

What impudence you have got?  If the husband seems half mad, the wife appears totally so!  He is going to starve you and your children to death. You make a tall claim that Easan will look after you! Haven’t I seen enough? Are the stone and earth going to take care of you? ‘Stone here and Earth at Kanchi’

He walks towards to the store area patting himself for his learned discourse!

    *******

The days roll on...

One day, as he is sitting on the forecourt of his house...

 Kalayanathar (to himself)

The stock of Kungiliyam has depleted drastically. There is nothing left to sell off for purchase of the item. Of what use this life, if I am unable to continue my vow of Kungiliya Sevai?

At that very moment, his wife comes there carrying a sack and keeps it in front of him. Going inside, she brings another sack tingling with vessels inside. Kalayanathar looks up at her.

Kalayanathar’s Wife

I am perturbed by your concerns. I have gathered all the items in the house and filled them in these sacks.  You take it to the market and get Kungiliyam in exchange.

She bows to him and stands. She goes distraught seeing Kalayanathar’s eyes going moist. 

 Kalayanathar’s Wife

What is the matter? If I fall sick will you not take care of me even by selling off everything you have? It is the divine task that you have vowed to undertake.  It is for His sake alone!   Are these things significant in front of Him? Never!  These are the things given by Him only. He has kept them in our custody   for some time. That is about all. It is very proper to return these to Him.  When He is the owner, how can we keep them with us? Today these are held by us.  Who knows as to who will be holding them tomorrow? When there is nothing of permanence in this world, does it matter who owns and who doesn’t own? What can tell a great Vedic scholar that you are?

Kalayanathar   (looking up) 

Amritam! It is a boon that I have you as my wife! You have shown me the way for my search of Aanma...

“Iraivan has created enormous wealth in this universe and given them to us. He is the owner of everything... To Him alone all these must be returned.” This is what you said.  These are only inanimate objects. He has given a part of His to us as Aanma, which is much moiré precious than all these. It is our duty to return that too to its rightful owner!   Knowing that He alone is everything and surrendering ourselves to Him is the way to realise Aanma!  Markandeyan is living for ever only because he embraced and surrendered to Easan!  I have been ignorant of this simple apparent method all along. Even if   someone goes in search of Aanma for his life time, it will be in vain unless he has surrendered his self totally to Easan! You have opened my eyes of wisdom...

He sheds tears of joy and Easan is happily listening to their conversation...

      ******

Kalayanathar’s house..

Amritam (sadly looking up at her husband)

It has been three days since you have had a morsel of food...

Kalayanathar

Why only me?  You and our children are also starving.

 He looks up in the sky.

 Amritam

 The whole village is reeling under famine... Otherwise at least I can prepare some savories for sale and run the household...

 It is like whiplash for Kalayanathar and he starts shedding tears in torrent...  Shaken thoroughly, Amritam rushes inside and enters the puja room. As she returns, she is holding her Thirumangalyam in her hands.

Amritam

For a woman, only the manjal thread is of permanence.. Take this and sell it off and with that money buy groceries for cooking food at home. To continue to starve will be injurious to your health. We are dependent on you and you are very important for us. Don’t hesitate. Take this and sell it off and buy stuff for our needs.

She forces her Thirumangalyam into his palm. Kalayanathar goes out...

    *****

As Kalayanathar approaches the market, a cart carrying a sack load comes in front. The cart man halts and stops Kalayanathar.

The cart man

 Ayyare! I have come in search of one Kalayanathar of your village. Do you know him? 

Kalayanathar

I am the one you are looking for! Tell me what for you want to meet me?

The cart man jumps off the cart and falls on his feet and starts weeping in a loud voice. Kalayanathar is puzzled by his act.

The cart man

Ayyare! I come from the mountains. I gather Kungiliyam and sell it off for my living. For the past three days I have been trying to sell of the stuff in the cart... there are no buyers... Who will buy this stuff when the whole village is reeling under famine... Where ever I go, people drive me out... My wife and children are waiting for me to sell this stuff and return with groceries ... If I don’t return soon with food stuff, they may all die of starvation... When I enquired if there is anyone who would buy Kungiliyam in this town, all of them gave your name.  I am told you buy Kungiliyam for Easan’s Sevai. I have come to you with great hope! For me you are verily Easan, my creator!

Kalayanathar

Your stuff will cost almost three golden nuggets. I have only half a nugget.

The cart man

Give me whatever you have... Even if it is meager, that is enough to buy food stuff for the present.

Kalayanathar

You have made the Jivaatma unto Paramatma.

 He stuffs his wife’s Thirumangalyam into his palm. The cart man is shocked on seeing what has been given to him.  As Kalayanathar bends down so that he can place the sack on his back, he is even more shocked!

     ****

The temple of Amritagateswarar …

Two devotees belonging to neighbouring towns are coming out of the Sannathi after darisanam…

Lo! Behold! What they see!

Devotee 1

What a scene is this? A Brahmin sporting the sacred thread across his shoulder is carrying a sack like a coolie! The load also seems to be rather heavy!

Devotee 2

Has he forgotten recitation of Vedas due to the prevailing famine?

The storekeeper listening to their conversation intervenes…..

The Storekeeper

 While outsiders like you are able to discern this anomaly, the locals are blind to it. The man carrying the heavy load is Kalayanathar, a renowned and well known exponent of Vedas. None can equal him in explaining the principles of Vedas. He has cast off his tremendous knowledge. Forgetting his role as a Brahmin to teach    Vedas and conduct Vedic rituals, he is wasting his time in doing menial jobs …. He has sold of his entire land and other properties for carrying out the so called Kungiliya Sevai.  I just heard that he even bartered his wife’s mangalasutram for Kungiliyam. Had it been the time of Dwaparayuga, he would have even bartered his wife and children for the sake of Kungiliyam! He is such a useless man!

The devotees are spellbound as Kalayanathar walks off carrying the heavy load on his back.

    *******

The Storeroom of the temple…

Kalayanathar unloads the heavy sack on to the floor. Having carried the heavy and thorny load, his entire back was bloodied.  The storekeeper reaches there and looks at him in disgust. As the sack is blocking his way, he gets highly irritated.

The Storekeeper

Hey! What nonsense is this? If you unload the sack on the passage, how can I walk to my store? Now, keep it on one side without blocking the way. What is the use of accumulating this Kungiliyam here which one cannot eat? It is my misfortune that I have to bear with these people!

Kalayanathar (to himself)

Earlier on the same man would dare not look into my eyes! I am even surprised how I am not annoyed even a bit on hearing these words from him!  Everything happens as per Easan’s wish!   I feel very calm and peaceful as I realise that I, who carried this load, the Storekeeper who was abusive and the devotees who were in awe are all part of the same Paramatma! I neither feel the pain of carrying the load nor feel any soreness due to the bloodied back!  How amazing? Is this what is meant by attaining the state of realization of Aanma? 

He drags the sack near to the wall and sits there. Overcome with tiredness, he closes his eyes and soon falls asleep.

 Iraivan makes a gentle breeze to fan his adiyavar and he goes into even more deep slumber. The time passes and it is almost midnight.   Iraivan wakes him up unable to see his devotee famished for long!

Iraivan

Adiyavare!

Kalayanathar is able to hear someone calling him. He wakes up with a start, stands and looks around to see as to who called him. He sees a great radiant light emanating in the Sannathi. Running there, he sees Amritagateswarar seated with the radiance of a thousand suns. Exhilarated from top to toe, Kalayanathar prostrates before Easan and gets up with great reverence.

Iraivan

Kalayanatha! You were able to hear My voice because you have succeeded in your search for Aanma and also realised what it is! Your wife and children are waiting for you having not taken any food.  You are indifferent to both happiness and sadness.  It is not so for your wife and children. They will not be able to bear the pangs of hunger and thirst. You must proceed to your house forthwith!

Acceding to the order of Easan, Kalayanathar rushes home.

There…..

He is surprised to find the entire village assembled…. As they see him they all chant in great gusto “Om Namasivaya” and welcome him with great respect.

He is shocked to find that his decrepit house has turned into a palatial bungalow.  He sees his wife and children waiting on the entrance and quickening his steps he reaches them. Making him stand on a golden plate, his wife, Amrithavalli, welcomes him by conducting Padapujai. His children also prostrate in front of him. All of them enter the bungalow.  Seeing gold and precious stones all around the house, Kalayanathar sheds tears for the grace bestowed by Easan.

Kalayanathar

How much blessed I am? Emperumane! Your glory is far higher than the sky and your compassion is far wider than the oceans… You have proved the adage that You are the servitor of Adiyavars!

He bows to Easan in great reverence.

  ********

Thiruppananthal…

 The whole place is sporting a festive look… There are buntings, welcome arches and decorations everywhere.

The Chozha king is coming to the temple with his entourage….

He is welcomed by village elders and Veda pundits with great fanfare to the accompaniment of Vedic chants and auspicious music. The king reaches the Sannathi and looks inside in great amazement.

Mannar

  I have not seen such a huge lingam till now!

As he bows to Easan, there is more shock in store for him.

Mannar

What is this? The sacred   Lingam is slanting at the top?

He looks at the Vedic pundits who narrates the story of Thadakai and how Easan bowed to protect her modesty. The king goes into raptures hearing the anecdote.

Mannar

But why the slanted body has not straightened yet?

The head Brahmin (bowing to the king)

Can anyone in this universe capable of straightening His body?

Mannar

Has anyone tried to straighten the slant so far?

There is no answer from any quarter for this query.

Mannar (continuing)

 Without giving a try, can we just leave it at that? Why not we try?

He immediately orders for making effort to straighten up the slanting posture of Easan. Soon the temple is buzzing with men and material for the same. The news spreads like wild fire and people from far and near assemble at Thiruppananthal to witness the event.  Well built and strong posses of hundred men are chosen for the task and are brought to the Sannathi. After prayers, puja and Deepaaradhanai of Easan, a stout rope used for pulling the temple chariot is wound around the lingam and the hundred men pull the rope to straighten the slant with all their might. Even after their strenuous effort for a long time, there is no effect. They are then joined by the priests and the large public who have gathered in pulling the rope. Even with all this combined effort for the whole day, there is not even iota of change. The king orders his elephant brigade to come. About a thousand elephants reach there and still more people gather in the town to witness the rare event. Even the Devas from heaven reach there to witness the event. The Panchakshara mantram   chanted aloud by all those assembled reaches far into the sky as the thousand elephants pull the rope to straighten up the slant of Easan. This carries on for hours on end without any result. The elephants get tired in due course .The king, pacing up and down, is perplexed that all his efforts have been in vain. An elderly Brahmin approaches the king and bows to him. The king stops and looks up to him.

The Brahmin

 Kalayanathar of Thirukkadayur alone is capable of straightening the holy body of Easan!

Mannar

If someone can achieve what my Elephant brigade could not, he must be extraordinary! What is so special about him?

The Brahmin

Mannare! He has the great fortune of conversing with Easan! Iraivan will accede to any of his demands!

He then narrates the story of Kalayanathar to the excited king.

Mannar

If someone dear to Easan is living close by let me go with my retinue and invite him here.

They all rush to Thirukkadayur.

    ******

The temple of Amritagateswarar…

Kalayanathar is absorbed totally in his Kungiliya Sevai unaware of the king’s arrival in the temple. The temple in charge comes and catches his hand and Kalayanathar regains his senses. On seeing the king in front of  him with his hands cupped in reverence and bowing to him, he gets confused.

Mannar  

Adiyavar Perumane! He who is blessed to hear the voice of Easan! I bow to you! In Thiruppananthal, Iraivan is seated with his body slant. All our efforts to straighten his posture have been in vain. On hearing only you are capable of achieving it, I have come here. You may please kindly come to Thiruppananthal.

Kalayanathar

If this is what is willed by Easan, I am ready to start now itself…

He bows to Veeratatanar and goes with the king.

    ********

Thiruppananthal…

The public see a puny Brahmin with folded praying hands walking along with king.

One of the public (mockingly)

How strange?  A single puny Brahmin! Is he going to straighten up by reciting mantras what a thousand mighty elephants failed to do?

The one standing next to him

Hey! You dimwit! The man who has come is   Vedic expert Kalayanathar from Thirukkadayur.... He is very dear to Easan Amritagateswarar.... He has been blessed to have conversed with Easan! You should not even think low of him .....

The first one (laughing)

Come on! How can Iraivan talk? Who has heard him talking to Iraivan? It is all nonsense ...

The second one

Haven’t you heard his story?  He devoted his entire life in the service of Easan and fell on hard times... He purchased Kungiliyam selling off even the mangalasutram of his wife for Kungiliya Sevai.... Overcome with fatigue and hunger he slept off in the temple. In the middle of the night Easan woke him up and asked him to proceed to his house.... When he reached his house, he found it turned into a palatial mansion with gold and gems heaped in all the rooms... What do you say for this?

The first one

From your narration, it is clear that the whole episode is only hearsay.  Unless there is direct evidence, it is not fit to be accepted as a fact. From time immemorial, is there any instance where two people have seen Iraivan at the same time together? Is there anyone who can claim to show the concrete form of Iraivan?  Does Iraivan have features like us? Is he capable of talking to us? Is it possible to see Him? The answer is No to all of these questions. Only to emphasise that He is without any form, our ancestors have created Him in the form of a Lingam for us to perceive! Perhaps it was sculpted with a slant by mistake and to justify it, the sculptor might have created a story that Easan bent down to save the modesty of Thadakai! It is another joke that a huge Army has assembled here to straighten up the slant and miserably failed in its attempt!   It is impossible to straighten up a stone! It can only be chiseled!    What is actually needed is a qualified sculptor with a chisel and hammer... Had he been here, he would have rectified the mistake ...   A Brahmin and his mantras are totally irrelevant here!

The other man goes speechless hearing this !

       ******

Shedding tears of joy, Kalayanathar goes euphoric on seeing the Easan’s gigantic stature in the Sannadhi. He starts chanting the Panchakshara mantram. The king and all those assembled there bow to Easan in great piety. Kalayanathar closes his eyes and brings the erect stature of Easan in his mind’s eye and starts reciting the Rudram melodiously.   Captivated by the fine music the public are in a trance as if bound by a spell! Kalayanathar peats the recitation and completes it for the hundredth time. As he opens his eyes, he finds that the there is no change in the posture of Easan.  The king is visibly disappointed, so also all the assembled public in not finding any change in the posture of Easan. Kalayanathar is highly perturbed as there has been no result for his prayers. Tears welling up in his eyes he looks up to Easan.

Kalayanathar  

Ayyane!   You are hailed as Panchabhoothan!    You are the Earth, the Fire, the Water, The wind and the Ether!  We are aware of Earth!  But is there any other distinct form for it? We are able to discern in You in all of Your five forms though You do not sport any specific form! The air takes the form of a bag when it is filled inside. So does water the shape of its container! The fire takes the form of the lighted wick. The earth takes the form of a pot when it is formed. The Ether encompasses and assumes every shape! When the body is revered, the holy Aanma contained therein is also revered.   Since Aanma is part of Peranma, all the venerations reach You only ultimately!  You assumed this form out of a huge rock me as a sculptor   transformed it. If  it is a fact that You really spoke to me and I heard the same, then what I now speak will also be heard by You!

He picks up the rope tied around the lingam and fastens it to his neck. The Panchakshara mantram “Om Namasivaya” emanates aloud from him as he pulls the rope.  The stout rope cuts through his flesh around his neck and blood spurts out. Unmindful, he continues to pull the rope with his neck chanting aloud the Panchakshara mantram. The King and the assembled people also chant aloud “Om Namasivaya” which rises to heavens. As Kalayanathar takes one step after the other pulling the rope with his neck, the people continue their loud chanting.  Witnessing in great amazement, the slant of the Easan’s body getting straightened up little by little, their chanting becomes more and more loud. Easan straightens Himself up and give darisanam to one and all. The heavens open up raining flowers.

A loud voice emanates from the sanctum sanctorum and heard by everyone.

The Divine Voice

Kalayanathare! En Anbare! I have been waiting here all along only for you! When I did not yield to your Rudram singing, I straightened up when you decided to sacrifice your Aanma for My sake! You have disclosed to the world that I am all pervasive and omnipresent. You have made the world realise that I assume the form of everything though formless! Your name and fame will remain as long as this universe exists. Whosoever worships Me will worship you as well! After you complete your service you will unite with Me!

The divine voice trails off!

Kalayanathar and all others raise their hands above their heads in great supplication of Easan!

Thiruchchitrambalam