POEM FROM TAMIL LITERATURE - WHEN THE CROWN MET THE CRADLE

ABOUT THE POEM:The poem WHEN THE CROWN MET THE CRADLE presents a striking portrait of King Anji as the ideal warrior and father. Fresh from the battlefield, he comes to see his newborn son without removing the marks of war. Clad in full battle attire, with spear in hand, warrior's anklets on his feet, sweat covering his body, and a fresh wound on his neck inflicted by an enemy, he embodies unwavering courage and martial glory. His head is adorned with a garland woven from palmyra, Vetci, and Vengai flowers—symbols of victory, heroism, and conquest.The king is compared to a mighty tusker that has survived the attack of a fierce striped tiger, emphasizing his immense strength and indomitable spirit. His eyes still blaze with the fury of battle, revealing that his righteous anger against his enemies has not yet subsided. The poet concludes that anyone who dared to challenge such a formidable warrior was destined not to survive.Through vivid imagery and powerful comparisons, the poem celebrates the Sangam ideal of kingship—a ruler whose valor, fearlessness and sense of duty remain undiminished even at the joyous moment of welcoming his newborn child.WHEN THE CROWN MET THE CRADLEKing Anji came to see his newborn son that day, His battle spear still firmly clasped in hand; No thought of rest could lure his soul away. The warrior's anklets graced his steadfast stand, His body gleamed with sweat from ruthless strife; A foeman's wound still marked his rugged neck and frame. Upon his brow, where victory crowned his life, A braided circlet, stitched with needle's art, Of palmyra blooms proclaimed the fearless life. With Vetci flowers twined in fragrant part, And golden Vengai blossoms proudly wound, The victor's wreath adorned his dauntless heart. He stood as stands the tusker, battle-crowned, Whom striped wild tigers dared in vain oppose; His wrath remained unshaken, fierce and sound. The crimson in his battle-burning eyes yet glows, Still lit by rage against the hostile band; 0No gentler light upon their fury flows. Whoever raised a weapon 'gainst this hand, Could never hope to live another dawn— For Death himself obeyed the king's command. Thus stood the sire beside his infant born, Still clothed in war, yet moved by father's grace; A lion crowned with victory and thorn. PURANANURU - 100POET: AVVAIYARPATRON:ADHIYAMAN NEDUMAN ANJI