POEM FROM TAMIL LITERATURE - THE ETERNAL SOVEREIGN

ABOUT THE POEM: The poem THE ETERNAL SOVEREIGN is a tribute to a remarkable leader, Vanavarampan likening his virtues to the powerful elements of nature. It describes his unmatched patience, boundless spirit, strength, fierceness and generosity comparing him to the earth, sky, wind, fire and water respectively. He is portrayed as a mighty ruler whose land rises and falls with the ocean, hinting at his dominion over both land and sea. The poem questions whether he is truly the legendary Vanavarampan, a symbol of grandeur and nobility. The second stanza celebrates his valor in battle, where he led both men and women to victory against overwhelming odds—a hundred horses against the valiant five. His leadership turned the tide of war securing triumph for his people. The poem also reflects on the resilience and harmony of his reign. Even if the natural order were to be disrupted with milk turning sour, day becoming night, or even the sacred laws of the Vedas being overturned, this leader would continue to uphold peace and harmony among his people. In the final stanza, the poet extends a heartfelt wish for his enduring reign. The poet envisions his people living fearlessly, like gentle deer resting under the serene light of a sacred lamp. This light, eternal and unwavering illuminates the peaks of the Imayam Mountains and Pothigai Hills, symbolizing the enduring prosperity and safety of his land. The stanza concludes with a blessing that his realm will be forever protected, with stars watching over it and abundant blessings flowing like grains of sand, signifying prosperity and endless goodwill.  Overall, the poem is a celebration of a leader's virtues, strength and the harmonious life he creates for his people—a timeless vision of a just and noble rule. THE ETERNAL SOVEREIGN You are as patient as the earth so wide,   As boundless as the sky’s great tide,   As strong as the wind that bends the trees,   As fierce as fire that none can appease.   Your land arises from the ocean’s swell,   Only to sink where the waters dwell.   Are you, indeed, that noble Vanavarampan,   Whose glory shines like the morning sun?   You led both men and women to fame,   In battles where a hundred horses came,   To face the mighty five with pride,   Yet found defeat by your side.   Though milk may sour and darkness reigns,   And Vedic codes be altered in vain,   May your people live with courage and grace,   Like female deer at rest in the lamp’s soft embrace,   Beneath the peaks of Imayam's height,   And Pothigai Hills bathed in eternal light.   Where stars align to guard your land,   And blessings flow like grains of sand.