EPISODE · Mar 10, 2025 · 1 MIN
POEM FROM TAMIL LITERATURE - THE BLOOM OF VIRTUE AND THE KING’S GRACE
from BEYOND THE OBVIOUS · host Purushothaman C
ABOUT THE POEM:The poem THE BLOOM OF VIRTUE AND THE KING’S GRACE reflects on the nature of birth, destiny and virtue through the imagery of the lotus, which rises from the mud in radiant bloom. Just as some shine like the lotus flower, earning praise and honor, others remain unnoticed, like its leaves. True greatness, the poem suggests, is determined by one’s deeds, not by birth.Addressing the Chola king Nalankilli, the poet draws a lesson from the waxing and waning moon—change is inevitable, and power is transient. Thus, a ruler, whether strong or weak, must show compassion to those in distress. Even if enemies are ruthless, wisdom lies in rising above cruelty and embodying grace. THE BLOOM OF VIRTUE AND THE KING’S GRACELike lotus born in murky, muddy deep,With petals bright, it blooms in golden hue,No birth can claim a difference vast or steep.Some shine like blossoms, graced with honor true,Their deeds extolled in poets’ endless praise,While others, leaf-like, rest in silent view.The noble ones, in virtue’s glowing rays,Shall rise beyond where mortal feet may tread,On chariots none in heaven yet obeys.O mighty Nalankilli, king well-bred!The moon wanes low, then waxes full and bright,So birth and death by nature’s law are led.Let not thy heart be hardened in its might,But show thy grace to those in sorrow drowned,Though foes be cruel, let them fade from sight.Purananuru - 27Poet: Uraiyur Muthukannan Sathanar.Patron: Chola King Nalankilli.
What this episode covers
ABOUT THE POEM:The poem THE BLOOM OF VIRTUE AND THE KING’S GRACE reflects on the nature of birth, destiny and virtue through the imagery of the lotus, which rises from the mud in radiant bloom. Just as some shine like the lotus flower, earning praise and honor, others remain unnoticed, like its leaves. True greatness, the poem suggests, is determined by one’s deeds, not by birth.Addressing the Chola king Nalankilli, the poet draws a lesson from the waxing and waning moon—change is inevitable, and power is transient. Thus, a ruler, whether strong or weak, must show compassion to those in distress. Even if enemies are ruthless, wisdom lies in rising above cruelty and embodying grace. THE BLOOM OF VIRTUE AND THE KING’S GRACELike lotus born in murky, muddy deep,With petals bright, it blooms in golden hue,No birth can claim a difference vast or steep.Some shine like blossoms, graced with honor true,Their deeds extolled in poets’ endless praise,While others, leaf-like, rest in silent view.The noble ones, in virtue’s glowing rays,Shall rise beyond where mortal feet may tread,On chariots none in heaven yet obeys.O mighty Nalankilli, king well-bred!The moon wanes low, then waxes full and bright,So birth and death by nature’s law are led.Let not thy heart be hardened in its might,But show thy grace to those in sorrow drowned,Though foes be cruel, let them fade from sight.Purananuru - 27Poet: Uraiyur Muthukannan Sathanar.Patron: Chola King Nalankilli.
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POEM FROM TAMIL LITERATURE - THE BLOOM OF VIRTUE AND THE KING’S GRACE
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