ಸ್ಥಾಪನೆ: ೧೯೪೮
ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯ ಕೂಟ, ಚಿಂತಾಮಣಿ.
ಶನಿವಾರದ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮ: ಮಹಿಳಾ ಸಮಾಜ ಭವನದಲ್ಲಿ
ತಾ: ೦೩-೦೫-೨೦೦೮ / ೨೬೭೫ ನೇ ವಾರ. ಸಂಜೆ ೬-೩೦ ಗಂಟೆಗೆ
_________________________________
ಉಪನ್ಯಾಸ: ..ಕೈವಾರ ತಾತಯ್ಯನವರ ವಚನಗಳು..........................................................
ಗಾಯನ.
ಉಪನ್ಯಾಸಕರು..ಶ್ರೀ ಬಿ. ಶ್ರೀರಾಮಮೂರ್ತಿಗಳವರು,.........................................................
ಗಾಯಕರು:
ಅಧ್ಯಕ್ಷರು..ಶ್ರೀ ಎಸ್.ಕ್ರಿಷ್ನಮೂರ್ತಿಯವರು, ಮುಖ್ಯೋಪಾಧ್ಯಾಯರು..............................................................
_______________________________________
ತಾವು ದಯಮಾಡಿಸುವುದಲ್ಲದೆ ತಮ್ಮ ಕಛೇರಿ / ಶಾಲೆಯಲ್ಲಿಯೂ ಪ್ರಕಟಿಸಬೇಕೆಂದು ಕೋರಿದೆ.
ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯ ಕೂಟ, ಚಿಂತಾಮಣಿ.
ಶನಿವಾರದ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮ: ಮಹಿಳಾ ಸಮಾಜ ಭವನದಲ್ಲಿ
ತಾ: ೨೬-೦೪-೨೦೦೮ / ೨೬೭೪ ನೇ ವಾರ. ಸಂಜೆ ೬-೩೦ ಗಂಟೆಗೆ
_________________________________
ಉಪನ್ಯಾಸ: ..ತುಲಸೀದಾಸ ಮಾನಸದಲ್ಲಿ "ಭರತ"..........................................................
ಗಾಯನ.
ಉಪನ್ಯಾಸಕರು..ಶ್ರೀ ವೈ.ಜಿ.ಅನಂತಶಾಸ್ತ್ರಿಗಳವರು.........................................................
ಗಾಯಕರು:
ಅಧ್ಯಕ್ಷರು..ಶ್ರೀ ಜಿ.ಹೆಚ್. ವೆಂಕಟೇಶಮೂರ್ತಿಯವರು.............................................................
_______________________________________
ತಾವು ದಯಮಾಡಿಸುವುದಲ್ಲದೆ ತಮ್ಮ ಕಛೇರಿ / ಶಾಲೆಯಲ್ಲಿಯೂ ಪ್ರಕಟಿಸಬೇಕೆಂದು ಕೋರಿದೆ.
ಸ್ಥಾಪನೆ: ೧೯೪೮
ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯ ಕೂಟ, ಚಿಂತಾಮಣಿ.
ಶನಿವಾರದ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮ: ಮಹಿಳಾ ಸಮಾಜ ಭವನದಲ್ಲಿ
ತಾ: ೧೯-೦೪-೨೦೦೮ / ೨೬೭೩ ನೇ ವಾರ. ಸಂಜೆ ೬-೩೦ ಗಂಟೆಗೆ
_________________________________
ಉಪನ್ಯಾಸ: ..ದೇವರ ನಾಮಗಳು..........................................................
ಗಾಯನ.
ಉಪನ್ಯಾಸಕರು...........................................................
ಗಾಯಕರು: ಶ್ರೀ ಟಿ.ಎಲ್. ಆನಂದ್ ರವರು
ಅಧ್ಯಕ್ಷರು..ಶ್ರೀ ಹೆಚ್.ಎಸ್. ಕರೆಣ್ಣನವರು.............................................................
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ತಾವು ದಯಮಾಡಿಸುವುದಲ್ಲದೆ ತಮ್ಮ ಕಛೇರಿ / ಶಾಲೆಯಲ್ಲಿಯೂ ಪ್ರಕಟಿಸಬೇಕೆಂದು ಕೋರಿದೆ.
ಶುಕ್ರವಾರ, ಏಪ್ರಿಲ್ 18, 2008
selected poems of Y.S.G.translated by Ananthsastry
ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF SELECTED POEMS
FROM
KANNADA BOOK
Y.S.G.
ONDU CHITRANA
MATTU
BIDI HOOGALU
~~–{—~~
Translated by :
Y.G. Anantha Sastry
Sri Rama Mandir Road,
N.R. Extension.
CHINTAMANI - 563 125.
CONTENTS
Page No. in Original Page Kannada book No.
Compiler’s Submission IX 2
Y.S.G. – A Pen Picture X - XVII 3
Come Gurudev 9 11
The Compassionate Guru 14 - 15 12
Age is advancing 23 - 24 13
Oh Raghava 59 - 60 14
Sri Rama did not kill Ravana 61 - 62 15
Who is the God ( The Sun God ) 126 - 128 17
God, I serve You ( Mental Worship ) 154 - 155 18
I speak as You make me speak 164 - 165 19
Oh Guru, make me duty bound 166 19
Money is buried underneath 223 20
Where are You hiding 223 - 224 21
What type of purity is ours 227 22
Attachment to one’s body 228 23
How can I be a poet 229 24
What is this illusion 231 25
What is this mere life 234 25
I have come this far 235 26
How can we neglect our body 237 - 238 27
We have to live 238 - 239 28
Having known the secret of causality 240 29
Oh mind, worship one God 241 - 242 30
When does my journey of life 242 - 243 31
Confluence of eight planets 246 - 247 32
I am saying as ‘I’ 249 - 250 33
How much blessed we are 286 - 287 35
This virtuous mansion of penance 289 - 290 36
Even after going round (Beggar’s Pilgrimage) 294 - 295 37
School being a temple 297 38
COMPILER’S SUBMISSION
It was April 1998. My father Sri Y.S. Gundappa (Y.S.G.) gave me a manuscript of a few poems in the form of a booklet with the title Bidi Hoogalu (meaning loose flowers which are not tied together) and told me to publish the same. A few days later i.e., on 18th June, 1998, his soul merged into Gondavalekar Sadguru Sri Brahmachaitanya.
After this, I felt that in addition to the poems in the manuscript Bidi Hoogalu, I should compile his other poems and publish. The result is this collection of poems. In this compilation, some of the devotional songs in the dramas written by my father are also included. I have collected some of the poems from my relatives. Among them, most of the poems were taken from my father’s younger sister Smt. Seethamma. I am grateful to them.
The poems in this compilation are grouped under different forms of God and different subjects. Wherever available, below each poem on the left is given the date of composition of the poem and on the right is the name of book or periodical in which the poem was published.
In this book, in addition to my father’s Bidi Hoogalu, his life sketch and elegy are included. I gratefully thank my father’s close friend Sri C.M. Channabasavaiah who gave us my father’s pen picture in the form of elegy and gave permission to publish the same in this book.
In connection with the printing of this book, I am grateful to Smt. Geetha and Sri Sadananda Rao who introduced me to Sri B.N. Nataraj of Sri Nithyananda Compugraphics. I am grateful to the staff of Sri Nithyananda Compugraphics for having printed this book with all involvement.
I hope this book will be welcome by my father’s students and admirers.
06-06-2000 Y.G. Anantha Sastry
Y.S.G - A PEN PICTURE
My revered father Sri Y.S.Gundappa (Y.S.G.) was born in Anekal (Bangalore District) on 12th June, 1905. His parents Sri Subrahmanyaiya and Smt. Gowramma were from an orthodox and pious family. The family shifted to Bangalore in the year 1913. By the year 1919, Sri Y.S.G. had already started composing devotional songs (i.e., Devaranamas). He got his primary school education in Tipu Sultan’s palace premises. He completed his middle school in the present Fort High School premises. He passed S.S.L.C. Examination from Malleswaram Government High School. His academic education ended with his attending classes for ten months for entrance examination.
Sri Y.S.G. was appointed as a clerk in Hosakote Taluk Office (Bangalore District) with a monthly salary of Rs. 25/-. As he was interested in teaching profession, he requested the Amaldar (at present Tahsildar) to get him appointed as a teacher. Accordingly, he became a teacher with a monthly salary of Rs. 15/-. Due to his dedication and devotion as a teacher, he got National Award on 22 Nov., 1963, by the then President of India Dr. S. Radhakrishnan. Consequently, he was felicitated in Chintamani Town Hall on 26th January, 1964. On this occasion Sri N.S. Rama Rao, Head Master of Chintamani Municipal High School read the following lines about Y.S.G.
WHO IS Y.S.G. ?
Y - Young in spirit
S - Simple and sociable in habits
G - God fearing
U - Upright in dealings
N - Nice and neat in work
D - Dutiful in service
A - Active throughout
P - Punctual always
P - Perfect in everything
A - Adjustable to one and all
is our beloved Y.S.G.
Sri Y.S.G. has thanked in a poem (Kritajnatheya Kusumagalu meaning Flowers of Gratitude on page 281) all those who helped him in his achievement. Consequently, in the year 1966, he was honoured by the state government and other organizations such as Rotary Club, Lions Club, etc.
His literary activity, which started in the year 1919 with the composition of devotional songs, gradually spread to other areas. ‘Sri Kavi Kinkara’ (meaning Servant of Poet) was his pen name. Most of his compositions are dedicated to the Family Deity Sri. Champakadhama Swamy. Every year he was publishing New year (Ugadi) greetings in the form of poems and sending them to his friends and relatives.
Following is the list of books written by him. He was a contributor of articles and poems to various periodicals.
I BOOKS
1. Gaana Rasaayana (Devotional songs) 1925
2. Karmasesha ( Story ) 1926
3. Ahimsaa Paramodharma (Story) 1930
4. Tholaraayana Sabhe (Drama) 1930
5. Dhruva Baala (Drama) 1932
6. Bhraathrubhakthaagrani Lakshmana 1935
Murthy (Story)
(This was prescribed as a text book in
Madras State. It was recommended for libraries
in Mysore and Bombay States.)
7. Baalaka Bhandaara (Multiplication tables) 1938
8. Goliya Myme (Drama) 1942
9. Maguvina Myme (Drama) 1946
10. Baala Kabir (Drama) 1946
11. Kaasina Gantu (Drama) 1947
12. Sadguru Geethe (Devotional Songs) 1950
13. Bangaaradangaalu (Collection of selected 1984
works of Y.S.G., published by Geleyara Balaga,
Chintamani.)
Books at Sl. No. 4, 5 & 9 were recommended for primary and middle school libraries in Mysore State.
II. Dramas enacted by Sri C.B. Mallappa’s Sri Chandramouleshwara Drama Company during 1935-38.
1. Mamatha Moksha
2. Adrista
3. Vidhivilaasa
III. Poems and articles were contributed to various Kannada periodicals and dailies.
An epic on Bhagawan Buddha, composed in Bhamini Shatpadi, (Stanza with six lines) is so far not published.
Sri Y.S.G. was encouraged in his literary activities by literary stalwarts in Kannada literature such as M.R. Sreenivasa Murthy, Bellave Narahari Shastri, Masti Venkatesha Iyengar (Recipient of Jnana Peetha Prashasthi), C.K.Venkataramaiah and others. Incidentally, M.R. Sreenivasa Murthy was Y.S.G.’s teacher.
Sri. Y.S.G. was an active participant in many cultural and literary organisations. On 12 April, 1948, he started a study circle in Chintamani which was named as ‘Sahitya Koota’ (meaning Literary Gathering). From 19 January, 1957, every Saturday, evening programmes are being arranged in Sahitya Koota. The Saturday Evening Programme is a model for punctuality, a good literary taste, discipline and cultured behaviour. The programme is given by not only literary giants but also common people interested in literature. Bhagawan Sri Parthasarathy is the Deity of the Koota and ‘Kaalaaya Tasmai Namaha’ (meaning Salutations to the Time Spirit) is the slogan. On occasions when Sri Y.S.G. had to go out of town, he was arranging the person to preside over the function and the singer or speaker for the evening. He was preparing the pamphlets for the function and distributing personally. Due to his perseverance and the momentum he gave, the Saturday programmes are still continuing without any break. The poem Bhikshukana Yaathre (meaning Beggar’s pilgrimage) on page 294 gives a picture of his struggle to arrange these programmes. When he was sick and physically exhausted, he attended the 2159th Saturday programme on 13th June, 1998, and this became his last Saturday on this earth. Some of his disciples and admirers are continuing the Sahitya Koota. (I have joined in June 2002 after my retirement from service.)
Theology was deep-rooted in Sri Y.S.G.’s life. Since his boyhood he was composing devotional songs. On 27 Dec, 1940, he was initiated to Tharaka Nama Japa (i.e., repeating God’s Name with the help of rosary) by Sri Naranappa Maharaj of Kundagol, who was a disciple of Sadguru Sri Brahmachaitanya Maharaj of Gondavale. In his life-time he did more than 50 crore Nama Japa. On 19 Nov, 1967, he was also initiated with Srimad Ramayana Moola Mantra. He started Paaraayana (i.e., reading of sacred text) of Sundarakanda of Sri Valmiki Ramayana on 22 November, 1967, and continued till his last day. He took Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa as his ideal. He had surrendered his life totally to Sri Brahmachaitanya Maharaj of Gondavale. Whenever he was mentally upset due to any untoward incident, he was expressing his feelings to the Maharaj. His daily routine in the morning was, after completing the morning prayers and oblations he was visiting Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandir, offer prayers to the Deities and then have Theertha (holy water). It was only after this he was taking a cup of milk. Further, after Sundarakaanda Paaraayana he was taking his lunch. With this type of ascetic life, on 18 June, 1998, he folded his hands with reverence to the photo of Sri Brahmachaitanya Maharaj of Gondavale and closed his eyes permanently. Probably at that time during the last minute of his life, he might have had the vision of the Maharaj.
There may not be any subject which were not dealt by Sri Y.S.G. through his poems. In addition to devotional songs, he composed poems on subjects such as songs for happy occasions, philosophy, Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandira at Chintamani, Sahitya Koota, Patriotism, Experiences in Life and Society etc. In philosophical poems, reason and philosophy go hand in hand. In Elladagiruve Deva (where are You hiding Yourself) on page 223 and Ishtu Dooravu Bande ( I have come this far) on page 235, he has seen God in varied forms of nature. In Yaatara Madi Nammadu (What type of purity is ours) on page 227 he has upheld the necessity of purity of mind. Dehaabhimaanave Dharma Drumake Kuthaara (Attachment to one’s body is the axe to the tree of righteousness) on page 228 and Dehavanupekshipare Dhariniyolu ( How can we neglect our body on this earth) on page 237, even though appear outwardly to have opposite ideas, they propound the theory that this human body is a means to achieve realisation of God. Likewise, in Baalabeku Naavu (We have to live) on page 238, he has shown the meaningfulness of living in this world and further in Jeevana Yaatre Endige Mugideetu (When does my journey of life come to an end ) on page 242 he has searched the path to reach God. Orva Devana Bhajisu ( Worship one God ) on page 241 has preached to follow one’s own faith without insulting other faiths.
Sri Y.S.G. had firm belief in causality. This can be seen in his poems Guru Dayaakara (The Compassionate Guru) on page 14, Ravanana Kondavanu Sri Ramanalla (Sri Rama did not kill Ravana) on page 61, Karmasootrada Marmavanaritu (Having Known the Secret of Causality) on page 240, Jeevana Yaatre Endige Mugideetu (When Does My Journey of Life Come to an End) on page 242, Naanu Endenutihenu Naanaaru ( I am saying as ‘I’, Who am I’’).
The poem Namma Bhavya Bharatha (Our Magnificent Bharat), starting with the geographical description, gives the history from the Vedic period till the period after independence. Some of the patriotic songs are heroic.
Most of the poems composed by Sri Y.S.G. are devotional songs. Description of God in these songs are marvelous. When we listen to the songs Anandavidu (It is a bliss) on page 287 and Enu Dhanyaro (How much blessed) on page 286, we can have the beautiful sight of the Lovely Raghunath with Sita, Lakshmana, the famous Maruthi and Brahmachaitanya of upright conduct in Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandira of Chintamani. In all his devotional songs, utmost devotion and total surrender to God are very conspicuous.
Sri Y.S.G.’s worldly day to day life was not merely a bed of roses. It was as though he gave an invitation to poverty by leaving the job of a clerk in Taluk office with a monthly salary of Rs. 25/- and opted for the job of a school teacher with a monthly salary of Rs. 15/-. In those days, his was a big joint family. The suffering due to poverty has found expression in his poems Badabaagni ( Great Fire) on page 255, Idondu Chitra (This is a picture) on page 268 and Kanaso Nanaso ( Dream or Reality ) on page 275. Inspite of this, he never expressed dissatisfaction with anybody.
On my father’s demise, one of his close friends Sri C.M. Channabasavaiah had expressed his respects in the form of an elegy which gives a pen picture of my father. I express my gratitude to him for having given permission to publish the same along with this collection of poems.
Y.G. ANANTHA SASTRY
On receipt of letter informing the sad demise of Sri Y.S.Gundappa my heart became heavy.-- The emotional silent suffering has come out in the form of poetry. This is a tearful homage to the sacred soul.
On receipt of letter informing the sad demise of Sri Y.S.Gundappa my heart became heavy. The emotional silent suffering has come out in the form of poetry. This is a tearful homage to the sacred soul.
Sri Y.S.G.
Ripe mind, speech, body,
Filled with sensibility and lofty ideal
Handful of skeletal frame
With little bit of flesh and blood,
Covered with skin
Is his great body !
With turban and coat on
And feet with shoes on
Is his outward figure.
But, . . . . . . .
Inside is multifacetted.
Poet, orator, teacher, singer,
Organizer, leader.
And ? Devotee !.....A liberated soul.
Small figure, but
Fame reached upto Delhi.
Fruit concealed under leaves
But not concealed for parrots.
1Thirteen crore was going on
In his coat pocket every minute.
A saint without oblivion,
Knowledge at its pinnacle.
Speech like the Radiance of Shiva with
Many new anecdotes.
He is a friend.
Friend of all.
1 Even while walking with coat on, Sri Y.S.G. was performing Taraka Nama Japa with his right hand and rosary in his coat pocket
Friend of the old.
Friend of the young.
Hard determination,
Ascetic power. Result ?
Sahitya Koota the
Union of souls.
Warm treatment with dedication and earnestness
Is the foundation for development.
New, strange, unique.
Wonder, wonder, only wonder.
Cogitation on thousands of subjects, Geetha recital.
Daily deliberation.
Y.S.G.’s life of orderliness.
Here is my salutation, congratulation.
Gunda at the peak of devotion and earnestness.
Gundappa to friends, Gunda to kids.
Gundappa to elders, Gunda to youngsters.
It is a beautiful parrot, mine of experience.
A rare 1Chintamani of 2Chintamani.
Chaitanya merged into Brahmachaitanya.
Unique, precious, blessed, revered.
Sri Kavikinkara you are nonegoist.
Here is my salutation to you; salutation.
C.M. Channabasavaiah, M.Sc.,
Sri Sarana Sadana,
6th Cross, Jayachamarajendra Extension,
CHITRADURGA-577 501.
1. The wish yielding precious stone of heaven.
2. The town Chintamani in Kolar District, Karnataka, India.
1. Translation of the poem Baarayya Gurudeva on page 9
Come Gurudev, show the right path. P
I pray to You to give good wisdom A
I am stuck in worldly affairs and worried. Protect me, my True
Kinsman. 1
Give the Divine Light to me, who is not able to understand the true meaning of life. 2
Dance of devotion or singing with renunciation, I do not know which is suitable for salvation. Tell me (which is suitable for salvation). 3
Greatest of all, Knower of people’s mind, to give the good sense of worshipping You whole heartedly (come Gurudev). 4
To show the easy way of meditating on You by making me devoid of ‘I’ the selfish ego (come Gurudev). 5
How can I please You, Man of good character ? You, knowing my wish, protect me by granting the company of Your good disciples. 6
Oh Guru, You let Your grace in the form of sacred Japanusthana (i.e., repeating God’s name with the help of rosary) to continue for ever. 7
Show me the God who, in whatever form He is meditated upon, protects us in the same form. 8
Guru Brahmachaitanya, kindly protect by making the mind always to dwell on the Giver of boons, Champakadhama. 9
25-12-1948 Subodha, April 1949.
_______
2. Translation of the poem GuruDayaakara on pages 14–15
The Compassionate Guru Sri Brahmachaitanya, Saviour from great calamities, protect by removing the great illusion which has encompassed the Truth. P.A
I came to this world again, due to my arrogance without foresight in my previous birth. Those bad deeds are harassing in many ways today. Come, protect me Father. 1
I have this body and family to worship You on this earth. I am extremely tired without knowing the essence (of life). Remove the darkness to show the right path. 2
In the ocean waves of happy family, by letting the peace prevail without any ebb and tide, kindly grace me with the memory of Champakadhama’s multitudinous names. 3
19-2-1951 Subodha, November 1952
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3. Translation of the poem Kaala Munduvariyutide on pages 23–24
Age is advancing, life is coming to an end. P
Protect me Oh Guru, the Compassionate Brahmachaitanya. A
How many births have elapsed, how many more are awaited in the future? Give me contentment with this birth. 1
I have wasted my time for earning wealth. Filled with selfishness, I have forgotten my prayers to You. 2
I am flaunting by reviling and harassing (others). Relieve (me from) calamities. Give me Supreme Bliss. 3
Gray hair does not turn black, youth does not come back. Prepare my mind to know the Supreme Person. 4
The life span is sliding under the cover of illusion. The body is undergoing suffering. Oh Lord, You protect me today itself. 5
I came to this earth light. Stopped as the road disappeared. Suffered with the burden of sins. Oh Father, save immediately. 6
Oh Supreme Guru, kindly protect by gracing with everlasting love in the memory of The Supreme Sri Champakadhama. 7
Subodha, May 1956
Background: The above poem was composed by Sri Y.S.G. when he completed his 50th year.
_______
4. Translation of the poem Enna Manege Banda Bageyidem
O Raghava Neem on pages 59-60
Oh Raghava how is it You have come to my house?
I cannot see Your game.
Have you of exalted beauty come to show Your greatness? Your qualities are inexplicable. 1
I do not know whether my small house is liked by You. Everything that is mine is yours. 2
Oh Lord of this earth, are you coming with alacrity to witness the customs and practices in this poor man’s house? 3
Are you coming with joy thinking this to be 1Vidura’s or 2Sudama’s house ? This family is a vast ocean. 4
My house is under Your control. Your arrival is at Your will. Your departure is determined by You. 5
I do not know to worship. I cannot please You. I have total faith in You, Impeccable one. Unwavered devotion to You is by Your grace. 6
I pray to You, who is beyond all theories, to come quickly and be in this metal idol and be pleased. 7
Oh Compassionate to the humble, I beg You now to stay in my house and in my body and make me blessed. 8
Rama Sri Champakadhama please accept my worship with love and austerity and protect me. 9
Saraswathi, May 1942
Yathrika, Kananda Rajyothsava
Deepavali Special Issue, 1988.
Background: The above poem was composed when the poet received a one piece idol of Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sita with Maruthi from one of his relatives. The idol remained with him for about twenty years. As the idol required daily worship strictly according to scriptures which was not feasible in his house, the same was handed over to a religious institution.
1 Sri Krishna’s devotee
2 Sri Krishna’s boyhood friend who was poor but later on became rich by Krishna’s grace.
_______
5. Translation of the poem Ravanana Kondavanu Sri Ramanalla on pages 61 – 62
Sri Rama did not kill Ravana ! Not our Rama ! P
The Pure Soul has no hatred at all. A
[Following stanzas, No. 1 & 2 explain how Rama could not have killed Ravana]
Having protected 1Ahalya with alacrity, having saved wicked 2Kakasura with pity, having lovingly relished the fruits offered by 3Shabari, how can such a Peaceful Person with eternal smile on His face kill? 1
Having gone to forest on the words of mother, having received with affection demon’s brother (4Vibhishana), having given up his wife to please his subjects, how can such a Compassionate Person who has shown such greatness, kill. 2
[Following stanza no.3 explains the reasons behind Ravana’s death.]
Heat of curse by 5Nandi and 6Nalakoobara, curse pronounced by grieved 7Vedavathi – all these surrounded the wicked ten necked (Ravana) and killed him. How is Ramachandra responsible (for the killing)? 3
[Then, what Rama has done is explained in Stanza No. 4.]
Having taken pity on the ten headed (Ravana) on this earth, having washed away all the sins of the demon, having desired to easily give salvation, the Lord rejoiced. Did he himself kill ? 4
[The last stanza below gives the moral of this poem]
One has to reap what is sown. Keeping this in mind, man has to perform his duties and offer the same to Janaki’s consort Champakadhama and meditate (on Him). This will give peace in the world. 5
Subodha, October 1951.
[Background : Once, Y.S.G. took one of his friends to Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandir at Chintamani. The idols there are lively and lovely. Y.S.G.’s friend on looking at the idols exclaimed, “Gundappa, Rama is with such a pleasant smile on his face and is peaceful. How such a person killed Ravana?” These words inspired Y.S.G. to compose the above poem Ravanana Kondavanu Sri Ramanalla (Sri Rama did not kill Ravana).
1 Wife of Sage Gauthama.
2 Demon disguised as a crow.
3 A Bhilla old woman who was a disciple of sage Matanga and a great devotee of Sri
Rama.
4 Youngest brother of Ravana.
5 A bull which is the mount of Lord Shiva.
6 Son of Kubera the god of wealth.
7 Daughter of sage Kushadhwaja who did penance to get Lord Vishnu as her
husband.
_______
6. Translation of the poem Poorva Dikkinalli Putti
(Sooryadeva) on pages 126 - 128
Who is the God, born in the east, illuminating the earth, shines with extraordinary brightness? Who protects all creatures daily ? 1
Who protects by dispelling darkness on the earth, sitting on the eastern mountains, extending with kindness his thousand hands? Who makes the world smile always ? 2
Who by making darkness disappear, going round the world has shown not to while away time? And who is the person measuring time? 3
Who comes when the eastern sky is red, when the stars are running away (i.e., disappearing), when the night withdraws with shyness, when the god of wind spreads fragrance by running (i.e., blowing) ? 4
Having known the onset of red colour before dawn, waking up and dancing on trees, whom do the birds pray daily by chirping with delight ? 5
Who with noble intention, shines over good objects as well as over objects which are not good? Who looks at every thing in the same manner ? 6
Who gives life to the world by quickly heating the ocean with sunlight, forming the cluster of clouds by wind, and heavily pouring down the
rain ? 7
Who shows all living beings on this earth that, happiness and sorrow are part of day to day life? Who is the creator of light and darkness ? 8
Who is the eternal witness to all good and bad deeds done by all living beings? Who is the Omnipresent eye for the whole world ? 9
Who is the root cause of the race of Raghu, in the form of Vishnu, Brahma, Sankara? He is The Sun God who shines with great grandeur. 10 ______
7. Translation of the poem Deva Ninnanu Sevisuve (Manasa Pooje) on pages 154-155
MENTAL WORSHIP
God, I serve You. P
Holy One, I worship You. A
You have pervaded Yourself throughout the world and the whole world is in You. Lord of the world, I cannot comprehend the illusory world. 1
Being everywhere in this world in many forms, when called delightfully with smile, You come by manifesting Yourself. 2
Having purified my body, having requested You to live in my lotus heart, I pray with love. 3
After coming quickly, making my heart Your abode, blessing me and averting the perils, accept my salutation. 4
After giving with all earnestness, ritualistic bath with devotion as water, I offer truth as clean cloth and worship (You) daily. 5
I worship (You) by offering intensely, altruism as fragrant scent, true nonviolence as flowers and kindness as food. 6
I pray (to You) with devotion, after burning my selfishness to annihilate as camphor, and after praising and lighting the lamp. 7
Supreme God, Lord Sri Champakadhama, safely protect by giving a clear mind for me to know you properly. 8
26-12-1934 Saraswathi, February 1943
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8. Translation of the poem Nudisidante Nudive on pages 164-
165
I speak as you make me speak, Oh Guru. I am acting as You make me act. P
I tread the path as You lead me. A
Oh Friend of the depressed, You give me good wisdom to understand that You are the only refuge after enlightening my mind with knowledge and shedding off my ego. 1
My body is Your temple. My work is Your worship. You are the only Guide in my journey. Oh Glorious One, protect me by showing the right path. 2
Sri Champakadhama, You are Omnipresent, Omnipotent, Great Overlord, Witness of all, Refuge of all, without hideousness, without confusion. 3
26-9-1952 Subodha, December 1952
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9. Translation of the poem Kartavyaparanaagi Maadenna
Guruve on page 166
Oh Guru, make me dutiful so that my life on this earth becomes meaningful. P.A
Sathya Harischandra sold his wife. Lord Ramachandra went to forest. Goddess Daakshaayini entered fire. Kindly make me understand the principle (behind these acts) on this earth. 1
I read epics, hear stories and use philosophical words without fail. In anger and at the time of achieving self-interest, I do not know what happens to all that I read. 2
Being a burden on others and without looking at others’ happiness, I worship You with all grandeur, Oh God. Give me good sense to be empathetic towards others. Make me keep my promises always. 3
Oh Lord, knowing You as the Time spirit, I pray You by offering salutations to the Time. I am not punctual and regular. Protect me by making me understand the value of Time. 4
Protect me from difficulties due to greed and from succumbing to deceitful situation. Oh Lord of Sita, Lord of Lakshmi, Rama Champakadhama give me good servitude of the virtuous. 5
22-2-1956 Subodha, April 1956.
________
10. Translation of the poem Dhanavu Nelavam Seruvudu on
page 223
Money is buried underneath the earth. Cattle stay back in the shed, wife upto the door and other men follow upto the crematorium. Body reaches pyre. In the journey to the other world the soul goes alone along with the fruit of its deeds.
11-2-1929
_______
11. Translation of the poem Elladagiruve Deva on page 223
Where are You hiding Yourself, God ! You are beautiful, good natured! I am not able to see You anywhere! Great God.
Are you inside this world ? Is the world inside You ? Are You beyond the outer regions of this world ? Eventhough You are in (each and every) atom, dust particle, straw, wood, Oh God ! I do not understand the nature of Your existence, Oh Lord. 1
Are you in the shining sun ! Are You in the delightful moon! Are You hiding in the (rain) water coming down! Even though I have experienced rain, sunshine, moonlight, I do not know even to imagine Your radiant abode. 2
Are You hiding in the fragrance of flowers! Even by smelling flowers I do not know your sign. Are You in the beauty of the garden during lovely spring! Having seen all this on this earth, I have not seen You. 3
In the hot summer, when tired, when I expose myself and sit under the shade of a tree, are You in the pleasant breeze from the tree. Inspite of having many happy experiences, I do not know You! 4
As one forgets oneself while singing, are You in music which gives delight to the mind! Even though I have experienced the joy of music, I have not seen You who is absorbed in music, Oh Guru! 5
Smaller than the atom and bigger than the biggest, You are seen by Your greatness in this world. I am in my body and You are in me. When I understand the Self, I understand You. 6
Just as something, which is already in the house, is searched outside, I have not seen You who is in me. I beseech You to quickly remove the veil of darkness and illuminate the light of knowledge in my mind. 7
As one sun shines in crores of water drops, You are in everything. RamaChampakadhama the giver of boons, I appeal to You to protect me by kindly revealing Yourself to me. 8
Prabuddha Karnataka, 1930
Maguvina Maime, 1946
_______
12. Translation of the poem Yaatara Madi Nammadu on page
227
What type of purity is ours! Life without the thought of Raghunath is a waste. P
What type of purity was observed by 1Ajamila to get salvation? What type of purity was undertaken by Shabari who offered fruits to the Supreme Person? 1
Just as a pond is with crocodile, if the mind is filled with poison, work done with honeyed words is futile. 2
By thoroughly purifying the mind, wishing others well, remembering Sri Champakadhama the Consort of Mother Earth’s daughter (i.e., Sita) is the real purity. 3
10-5-1935 Subodha, May 1953
Even though Ajamila lead sinful life, he got salvation for having uttered
Narayana’s name before death.
_______
13. Translation of the poem Dehaabhimaanave on page 228
Attachment to one’s body is the axe to the tree of righteousness. P
Infatuation and selfishness are the store house of grief. A
Anger is 1Yama, lust is 2Vaitharani. Feeling of disparity, greed and pride are the dreadful hell on this earth. Singing of hymn on Sridhara is heavenly bliss. 1
Company of the wicked is the cruel noose of Yama. Lust for other man’s wife is 3Halahala poison. Vilification of others is the root cause of sinful deeds. Hurting the feeling of others is total annihilation. 2
Always being truthful is penance. Righteous act is 4Japa. Helping others is greater worship. Wishing good to others is the path of knowledge on this earth. Remembering Champakadhama the Giver of boons gives salvation. 3
Saraswathi, April 1943.
1. God of death
2. River on the way to hell.
3. Poison produced at the time of churning the ocean by gods and demons.
4. Repeated chanting of God’s name usually with the help of rosary.
_______
14. Translation of the poem Kaviyentu Naanaade on page
229
How can I be a poet without You, the Pure Intellect (and) without You quickly enlightening my mind in this world ? P.A
Oh God, without giving life to my breath how can I be considered as a living being ? 1
How can I speak without 1Saraswathi on my tongue? How can I become an enlightened man without meditating on You? 2
How were Dhruvabala, Prahlada, Valmiki known as ascetics on this earth? 3
How can Poet Ravindra’s poetry, Ravivarma’s paintings become famous without You in their description ? 4
Oh Supreme Spirit, can the compositions of blessed Thyagaraja and Purandaradasa be beautiful without You on this earth ? 5
Champakadhama please give me pure knowledge that You are Supreme in the whole universe. 6
15-11-1944. Subodha, May 1950.
1. Goddess of learning.
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15. Translation of the poem Enidenidu Maaya on page 231
What is this illusion? The way to come out (of this illusion) is not seen. P
What a great wonder is the behaviour of human beings ! A
How (one) comes to this earth? Again how (he) leaves? How to understand the births and deaths which are always seen? How to know the gap between men’s happiness and sorrow? What is the secret of activities on this earth? 1
Thinking that happiness is in this illusory world, I am stuck in the vast ocean of transmigration and extremely tired. Hence, give me the true wisdom to understand God who shows the path (to come out of transmigration), Oh Valiant Champakadhama. 2
Balakabir, 1946
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16. Translation of the poem Enidu Bari Baduku on page 234
What is this mere life which is just a pretense? P
Human life is like dalliance in a drama. A
It is a wonder that many characters are tied with one another by the strings of Karma (i.e., causation) on this earth as stage . 1
(Why people) are supercilious, thinking that the role (they) play for just half a moment is permanent. 2
Act of love by the proud actor according to one’s Karma is pure drama. 3
We should know our quintessence quickly by removing the veil of illusion on this earth. 4
Rama Sri Champakadhama is the only refuge to know the secret of righteous life. 5
12-5-1949 Subodha, April 1950
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17. Translation of the poem Ishtu Dooravu Bande on page
235
I have come this far, how much (I have to go) further? P
Oh Creator! You make me carry on with the journey, Oh Father. A
Oh Immaculate One, in the beginning I came from You. I travelled in different paths. With delight, I got the knowledge of Your skill in (Your) creation. Oh Compassionate One, the path to reach You is disappearing. 1
Once I moved in beautiful garden of flowers. Again I was wandering in lustreless forest. I amused myself being in various bodies on this earth. An abode for resting is not yet seen. 2
Kindly let the endless illusory wandering continue peacefully. Father of 1Manmatha, Consort of 2Lakshmi, Champakadhama, protect me by taking me to the region of Your feet joyfully.
18-05-1949 Subodha, June 1952
1. God of love.
2. Goddess of wealth.
_______
18. Translation of the poem Dehavanupekshipare on pages 237-238
How can we neglect our body on this earth which is the house for the grand worship of God? P.A
This machine (i.e., the body) which extracts the essence from different dense matter originated out of the five elements (i.e., earth, ether, fire, water and air) on this earth, makes it (i.e., the essence) start creation and gives support to the source of life in the new world. 1
The beautiful body which understands the enchanting beauty of nature with the help of the five sense organs should not be pampered or withered except that it should be filled with Satva (i.e., mettle). 2
Why one should ignore the body which is ready to serve the guests with a spirit of sacrifice? Not succumbing to any decease, not permitting libidinousness, this wonder (i.e., the body) is fit to be a temple of austerities. 3
Being born as a human being among crores of living beings on this earth is considered the best. This (body) is a magnificent means to welcome the God of gods and to light the lamp of knowledge. 4
Without polluting the mind with the idea that this life is transient; with the belief that this (i.e., the body) is the temple of the Lord and is mercifully given (to us) by the Lord of the universe RamaChampakadhama, should be kept clean daily for offering to the Spirit of the universe. 5
6-5-1953 Subodha, July 1953
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19. Translation of the poem Baalabeku Naavu on pages 238-
239
We have to live here in this world sportfully to serve Srilola ( i.e., Vishnu). P.A
They talk of heaven. Is that heaven in any way equal to this earth? This is the land of unparalleled virtue with happiness of rich natural beauty. Here (We have to live). 1
Does the sun shine over the eastern mountain ? Does the moon shine delightfully? Does that world (i.e., heaven) has stars twinkling in varied ways ? 2
The gods having seen and examined the living beings on this earth, wondered at the sacredness and admired the truth and 1Sanjeevana on this earth. Hence, (we have to live.) 3
The Supreme Person to have everlasting happiness, created Mother Earth, human beings etc., and himself has incarnated. Hence, (we have to live.) 4
The Giver of desired objects Sri Raghu Rama Sri Champakadhama being here (we have to live here) to see the lovely form of the Person with enchanting body and praise (Him) ritualistically. 5
31-12-1953 Subodha, April 1954
Background : This poem was composed when the poet’s wife (my mother) passed away.
1. Herb believed to bring back dead to life.
_______
20. Translation of the poem Karmasutrada Marmavanaritu on page 240
Having known the secret of causality, are we to merely blame the law of righteousness? P
On this earth, which is our place of work, are we to live without doing good work, with love? A
Did preceptor Vasishta, when he stipulated the time for the coronation of the Best among Raghus (i.e., Sri Rama), think that He (i.e., Sri Rama) would be going to the forest? Are we not under the control of the mighty causality? 1
How much strong was the causality of the father (of Sri Krishna) which made the Person (i.e., Sri Krishna) who killed Putana, (not to get His parents released) on that very day, and to wait for a future occasion to get his parents released from prison. 2
Death of Dasharatha, fall of the ten headed (Ravana), wandering of the daughter (Sita) of Mother Earth, death of Parikshit of lunar race are examples of fruit of action. 3
After understanding the visible sorrowful experiences on this earth, does man not get advancement by the divine grace from enlightened souls ? 4
Consort of Lakshmi, Rama Sri Champakadhama the Compassionate Person is the only refuge for us to bear the heat of bad deeds and do acts of kindness to the people. 5
24-8-1954 Subodha, September 1954
21. Translation of the poem Orva Devana Bhajisu Ele
Manave on pages 241-242
Oh mind, worship one God, the Lord of all, the way your elders have taught you. P.A
(Worhip one God) as Hari, as Hara, as Sri Rama the husband of Mother Earth’s daughter (Sita), as Krishna the Killer of Mura, as Narasimha or as Sri Venkataramana the giver of boons. 1
Understanding and following the teachings of any one among Guru Shankara, Madhwa, Great Ramanuja or Paramahamsa and by remembering (the teachings) daily and by achieving the goal (worship one God). 2
Learning with earnestness the great messages from Prophets Buddha, Christ, Mohammed and always preparing our pure mind for uplifting righteousness (worship one God). 3
Thinking that other faiths are dreadful and on examination our faith is propitious; without slighting other faiths always worship God without ostentation. 4
Just as innumerable drops of water from the sky reach the ocean, various prayers to different gods reach one Lord of the universe. Knowing this, (worship one God). 5
Beseeching purity of mind, truthfulness, company of good people and principle of nonviolence (from God and) mentally adoring (Him) with delight, (worship one God). 6
(Worship one God) as Master Sri Brahmachaitanya who shows with love the easy way of (always) remembering the name of Rama Sri Champakadhama and protects (us) safely. 7
Subodha, November 1956.
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22. Translation of the poem Jeevana Yaatre on pages 242-243
When does (my) journey of life come to an end ? How does the manifestation of our God Sri Rama take place ? P.A
Bound by births and deaths, I have come to this earth many times. How much time is needed to see the end (to this births and deaths), Oh Lord? 1
I had many fathers and mothers and countless relatives. Is there any liberation from bondage (from previous births) which has come over a long time? 2
Many brothers, many wives and sons came along with me and many left me in the middle on this earth and gone. On this earth (when does my journey of life come to an end)? 3
There are many affectionate friends and many who hurt and walked away. The illusory world makes me believe that they (i.e., friends etc.,) are permanent on this earth. In this illusory world, (when does my journey of life come to an end)? 4
Today’s various perturbations are the result of actions in previous birth. Present life (i.e., action in this life) is the root for the foundation of next birth. 5
As the darkness approaches, all the birds in the surrounding area flock on a tree and again at day break scatter away. Likewise, when does our journey of life come to an end ? 6
When do I find the sacred path which was tread by the kind ascetics and virtuous men on this earth and which takes us to Rama Sri Champakadhama? 7
8-5-1958 Bhajane, 1958.
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23. Translation of the poem Astagrahayogadali on pages
246-247
Confluence of eight planets (people say) is harmful (even) when there is the support of remembering Hari’s Name in this creation. P
While Earth, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, Kethu are going round the great Sun continuously according to the laws of nature, once when they come on one side of the earth, should there be any place for fear and confusion? 1
In the solar system, the planets without breaking the laws of nature go round the sun, showing the principle of loyalty to their duty and to make us aware of our duty on this earth. Will this do any harm in this world? 2
How were the group of planets responsible for the death of Ravana’s reserve army and huge army of Kauravas? We have to lead our lives keeping in mind that we are the root cause for our pleasures and pains. 3
What the gods of nine planets do to men, who worship and offer oblation to the nine planets, but live by keeping aside ethics and rules in their transactions, having lost truthfulness ? 4
Having understood the limitations of our life on this earth, if we transact without slandering others, the planets joyfully bless us. Rama Champakadhama now keep our lives obsolutely clean. 5
Background : The above poem was composed when there was a confluence of eight planets in the year 1962. During that time, Homas (oblation to fire) were performed to appease the gods of nine planets and to ward off their ill effect. Many people including Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru opposed this type of Homa. This poem gives the opinion of the poet on the confluence of eight planets.
_______
24. Translation of the poem Naanu Endenutihenu Naanaaru
on pages 249-250
I am saying as ‘I’. Who am I ? Who are You ? Whether I am Yourself or You are myself, I do not know !
I do not know my beginning. I do not know my end. I cannot imagine the secret of my life’s course. My previous birth and my future path do not come to my mind. What is it, that is Yours? 1
This body is mine; hands and legs are mine; two each eyes and ears are mine; the mind is mine; all sense organs are mine. Then what is that ‘I’ in my body? 2
Supreme Person, concealing Your quality of Satva (i.e., quintessence), having created the whole world by the quality of Rajas (i.e., imperiousness) You destroy the world by the quality of Tamas (i.e., ignorance, darkness, grief, etc.). But, You have bound me by the great causality. 3
Just like sparks are emanated from fire, water drops from clouds, Oh Great One, I came from You earlier. Just like water drops reach cloud, I reach You. 4
Having separated from You in accordance with causality, earlier I got into this body formed by the five elements (i.e., earth, ether, fire, water and air). Bound by Your illusion, having forgotten You and having developed egoism (i.e., feeling of I and mine), I have flaunted with pride. 5
Having made the body the home, being with my wife, having given place to the six enemies (i.e., libidinousness, anger, greed, infatuation, arrogance and envy) in my mind and having earned money to please relatives, I lost Your memory. I trusted that this body is permanent. 6
I shall clean my house (body), which is not permanent, to worship You. I beg (You) with devotion, to stay in my lotus heart and make me Yours. 7
I am a soul where as, You are the Supreme God. I am with body where as, You are formless without body. I am with the three qualities (i.e., Satva, Rajas and Tamas) where as, You are beyond the three qualities. You are free from the effects of action where as, I am bound by the effects of action. 8
I am a humble man where as, You are affectionate to humble men. I am in this body whereas, You are throughout the universe. I am only a kite where as, You are its controller. You play with that (Kite), holding it by the string of causality. 9
I am blessed if You close Your play now and merge me in You at the earliest. Oh God Champakadhama, protect me by giving the supreme knowledge that I am aware of my presence in You. 10
_______
25. Translation of the poem Enu Dhanyaro on pages 286–287
This poem of ecstatic experience was sung by the poet during the installation ceremony of white marble idols of Sri Sita Rama Lakshmana Maruthi and Sri Brahmachaitanya on 13th June, 1949 at Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandira in Chintmani.
How much blessed we are and how many good deeds we might have done (due to which) we are seeing the Consort of Sri Janaki. P
To see on this earth the Kinsman of humble men Himself entering the idol (how much blessed we are). A
Lotus eyed God, who is immeasurable, to take care of His devotees with zeal on this earth, has stayed in the bright white marble idol and this sight is eye-catching. Hence (how much blessed we are). 1
By making Lord of Raghus, Mother Sita, Lakshmana, Maruthi to stay with affection in idols along with Himself, Brahmachaitanya Sadguru has shown love (towards us). Hence (how much blessed we are). 2
Having joyously made us feel this (Chintamani) as Ayodhya and Gondavali, a sacred pilgrim centre, Sadguru has mercifully given us the treasure of Sri Ramanama (i.e., Sri Rama’s name). Hence, (how much blessed we are). 3
The Saviour of the Vedas, Lover of devotees, protecting the world with smile on His face, in the form of RaghuRama has come to give peace to this world. Hence, (how much blessed we are). 4
This Chintamani town on this earth, filled and overflowing with Ramanama (i.e., Rama’s name), being safe, (we) pray to the personification of love, Rama Sri Champakadhama. Hence, (how much blessed we are). 5
12-6-1949 Sadguru Geethe
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26. Translation of the poem Sarvasama Bhavaneya on pages
289–290
This virtuous mansion of penance with feeling of equality for all is the grand Vaikuntha on this earth. P.A
This is the home of pious men where peace is found and where affectionate good vocation guides towards salvation. This house without differentiation is showing its greatness. This hermitage which creates happiness is a model abode. 1
Truth is the foundation. Righteousness is the roof. This is enclosed by walls covered with paintings. Here is the environment of love, remembering the name of Sri Rama with grand festivity daily, filled with His praise and Japa. 2
This is the holy place of incomparable sacredness with huge main entrance and very beautiful compound. The Sanctum Sanctorum gives total bliss. Here, at this place of deliverance, the Lord has manifested Himself. 3
This is the abode of the blissful Sadguru Samartha, who came with joy, to make Chintamani town as Gondavali in beauty, and to protect the group of devotees here. 4
Refuge for the true brahmins to serve ; true abode of Champakadhama known by the Vedas; home of true devotion, knowledge and renunciation – is Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandira. 5
Subodha, 1955
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27. Translation of the poem Oorella Suttidaru (Bhikshukana
Yaatre) on pages 294–295
BEGGAR’S PILGRIMAGE
Even after going round the town (the beggar) did not get weekly food. The beggar has come to ask for speech with substance. 1
He is on pilgrimage by humbly walking to every house, school and lofty office. 2
The beggar, for the protection of literature, begs for spectators and speech with special quality. 3
The servant of men of letters of Sahitya Koota, which is the shelter to men of letters, yearns for encouragement. 4
Do favour by not breaking the link in the chain of weekly programmes. 5
He (i.e., the beggar) requests the men and women of culture to submit their day to day experiences before Sri Parthasarathi. 6
You all come with alacrity on Saturday evenings; with intense longing participate in Bhajan (i.e., singing of songs in praise of God) joyfully. 7
He requests those who come once not to stay back (without coming) and to assemble day by day. 8
By singing the hymn of peace there, one will have peace of mind. Happiness exists in the company of saints. 9
Spiritual knowledge is the best of all types of knowledge. That (spiritual) knowledge is achieved amidst men with self-realisation. 10
The Supreme Spirit (i.e., God) is around a group of some ten people. Assembly of righteous people is filled with contentment. 11
Champakadhama the giver of boons, who always inspires, protects people in the atmosphere of literature. 12
Yathrika, Bangalore, 15-9-1987.
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28. Translation of the poem Shaaleye Degula Maagal on page
297
School being a temple, children being gods, teaching staff worshipping with amusement, parents are renowned devotees on this earth.
May the all merciful Sri Ramachandra Champakadhama give inexhaustible felicity, auspiciousness, tranquility and love to the whole world continuously.
________
FROM
KANNADA BOOK
Y.S.G.
ONDU CHITRANA
MATTU
BIDI HOOGALU
~~–{—~~
Translated by :
Y.G. Anantha Sastry
Sri Rama Mandir Road,
N.R. Extension.
CHINTAMANI - 563 125.
CONTENTS
Page No. in Original Page Kannada book No.
Compiler’s Submission IX 2
Y.S.G. – A Pen Picture X - XVII 3
Come Gurudev 9 11
The Compassionate Guru 14 - 15 12
Age is advancing 23 - 24 13
Oh Raghava 59 - 60 14
Sri Rama did not kill Ravana 61 - 62 15
Who is the God ( The Sun God ) 126 - 128 17
God, I serve You ( Mental Worship ) 154 - 155 18
I speak as You make me speak 164 - 165 19
Oh Guru, make me duty bound 166 19
Money is buried underneath 223 20
Where are You hiding 223 - 224 21
What type of purity is ours 227 22
Attachment to one’s body 228 23
How can I be a poet 229 24
What is this illusion 231 25
What is this mere life 234 25
I have come this far 235 26
How can we neglect our body 237 - 238 27
We have to live 238 - 239 28
Having known the secret of causality 240 29
Oh mind, worship one God 241 - 242 30
When does my journey of life 242 - 243 31
Confluence of eight planets 246 - 247 32
I am saying as ‘I’ 249 - 250 33
How much blessed we are 286 - 287 35
This virtuous mansion of penance 289 - 290 36
Even after going round (Beggar’s Pilgrimage) 294 - 295 37
School being a temple 297 38
COMPILER’S SUBMISSION
It was April 1998. My father Sri Y.S. Gundappa (Y.S.G.) gave me a manuscript of a few poems in the form of a booklet with the title Bidi Hoogalu (meaning loose flowers which are not tied together) and told me to publish the same. A few days later i.e., on 18th June, 1998, his soul merged into Gondavalekar Sadguru Sri Brahmachaitanya.
After this, I felt that in addition to the poems in the manuscript Bidi Hoogalu, I should compile his other poems and publish. The result is this collection of poems. In this compilation, some of the devotional songs in the dramas written by my father are also included. I have collected some of the poems from my relatives. Among them, most of the poems were taken from my father’s younger sister Smt. Seethamma. I am grateful to them.
The poems in this compilation are grouped under different forms of God and different subjects. Wherever available, below each poem on the left is given the date of composition of the poem and on the right is the name of book or periodical in which the poem was published.
In this book, in addition to my father’s Bidi Hoogalu, his life sketch and elegy are included. I gratefully thank my father’s close friend Sri C.M. Channabasavaiah who gave us my father’s pen picture in the form of elegy and gave permission to publish the same in this book.
In connection with the printing of this book, I am grateful to Smt. Geetha and Sri Sadananda Rao who introduced me to Sri B.N. Nataraj of Sri Nithyananda Compugraphics. I am grateful to the staff of Sri Nithyananda Compugraphics for having printed this book with all involvement.
I hope this book will be welcome by my father’s students and admirers.
06-06-2000 Y.G. Anantha Sastry
Y.S.G - A PEN PICTURE
My revered father Sri Y.S.Gundappa (Y.S.G.) was born in Anekal (Bangalore District) on 12th June, 1905. His parents Sri Subrahmanyaiya and Smt. Gowramma were from an orthodox and pious family. The family shifted to Bangalore in the year 1913. By the year 1919, Sri Y.S.G. had already started composing devotional songs (i.e., Devaranamas). He got his primary school education in Tipu Sultan’s palace premises. He completed his middle school in the present Fort High School premises. He passed S.S.L.C. Examination from Malleswaram Government High School. His academic education ended with his attending classes for ten months for entrance examination.
Sri Y.S.G. was appointed as a clerk in Hosakote Taluk Office (Bangalore District) with a monthly salary of Rs. 25/-. As he was interested in teaching profession, he requested the Amaldar (at present Tahsildar) to get him appointed as a teacher. Accordingly, he became a teacher with a monthly salary of Rs. 15/-. Due to his dedication and devotion as a teacher, he got National Award on 22 Nov., 1963, by the then President of India Dr. S. Radhakrishnan. Consequently, he was felicitated in Chintamani Town Hall on 26th January, 1964. On this occasion Sri N.S. Rama Rao, Head Master of Chintamani Municipal High School read the following lines about Y.S.G.
WHO IS Y.S.G. ?
Y - Young in spirit
S - Simple and sociable in habits
G - God fearing
U - Upright in dealings
N - Nice and neat in work
D - Dutiful in service
A - Active throughout
P - Punctual always
P - Perfect in everything
A - Adjustable to one and all
is our beloved Y.S.G.
Sri Y.S.G. has thanked in a poem (Kritajnatheya Kusumagalu meaning Flowers of Gratitude on page 281) all those who helped him in his achievement. Consequently, in the year 1966, he was honoured by the state government and other organizations such as Rotary Club, Lions Club, etc.
His literary activity, which started in the year 1919 with the composition of devotional songs, gradually spread to other areas. ‘Sri Kavi Kinkara’ (meaning Servant of Poet) was his pen name. Most of his compositions are dedicated to the Family Deity Sri. Champakadhama Swamy. Every year he was publishing New year (Ugadi) greetings in the form of poems and sending them to his friends and relatives.
Following is the list of books written by him. He was a contributor of articles and poems to various periodicals.
I BOOKS
1. Gaana Rasaayana (Devotional songs) 1925
2. Karmasesha ( Story ) 1926
3. Ahimsaa Paramodharma (Story) 1930
4. Tholaraayana Sabhe (Drama) 1930
5. Dhruva Baala (Drama) 1932
6. Bhraathrubhakthaagrani Lakshmana 1935
Murthy (Story)
(This was prescribed as a text book in
Madras State. It was recommended for libraries
in Mysore and Bombay States.)
7. Baalaka Bhandaara (Multiplication tables) 1938
8. Goliya Myme (Drama) 1942
9. Maguvina Myme (Drama) 1946
10. Baala Kabir (Drama) 1946
11. Kaasina Gantu (Drama) 1947
12. Sadguru Geethe (Devotional Songs) 1950
13. Bangaaradangaalu (Collection of selected 1984
works of Y.S.G., published by Geleyara Balaga,
Chintamani.)
Books at Sl. No. 4, 5 & 9 were recommended for primary and middle school libraries in Mysore State.
II. Dramas enacted by Sri C.B. Mallappa’s Sri Chandramouleshwara Drama Company during 1935-38.
1. Mamatha Moksha
2. Adrista
3. Vidhivilaasa
III. Poems and articles were contributed to various Kannada periodicals and dailies.
An epic on Bhagawan Buddha, composed in Bhamini Shatpadi, (Stanza with six lines) is so far not published.
Sri Y.S.G. was encouraged in his literary activities by literary stalwarts in Kannada literature such as M.R. Sreenivasa Murthy, Bellave Narahari Shastri, Masti Venkatesha Iyengar (Recipient of Jnana Peetha Prashasthi), C.K.Venkataramaiah and others. Incidentally, M.R. Sreenivasa Murthy was Y.S.G.’s teacher.
Sri. Y.S.G. was an active participant in many cultural and literary organisations. On 12 April, 1948, he started a study circle in Chintamani which was named as ‘Sahitya Koota’ (meaning Literary Gathering). From 19 January, 1957, every Saturday, evening programmes are being arranged in Sahitya Koota. The Saturday Evening Programme is a model for punctuality, a good literary taste, discipline and cultured behaviour. The programme is given by not only literary giants but also common people interested in literature. Bhagawan Sri Parthasarathy is the Deity of the Koota and ‘Kaalaaya Tasmai Namaha’ (meaning Salutations to the Time Spirit) is the slogan. On occasions when Sri Y.S.G. had to go out of town, he was arranging the person to preside over the function and the singer or speaker for the evening. He was preparing the pamphlets for the function and distributing personally. Due to his perseverance and the momentum he gave, the Saturday programmes are still continuing without any break. The poem Bhikshukana Yaathre (meaning Beggar’s pilgrimage) on page 294 gives a picture of his struggle to arrange these programmes. When he was sick and physically exhausted, he attended the 2159th Saturday programme on 13th June, 1998, and this became his last Saturday on this earth. Some of his disciples and admirers are continuing the Sahitya Koota. (I have joined in June 2002 after my retirement from service.)
Theology was deep-rooted in Sri Y.S.G.’s life. Since his boyhood he was composing devotional songs. On 27 Dec, 1940, he was initiated to Tharaka Nama Japa (i.e., repeating God’s Name with the help of rosary) by Sri Naranappa Maharaj of Kundagol, who was a disciple of Sadguru Sri Brahmachaitanya Maharaj of Gondavale. In his life-time he did more than 50 crore Nama Japa. On 19 Nov, 1967, he was also initiated with Srimad Ramayana Moola Mantra. He started Paaraayana (i.e., reading of sacred text) of Sundarakanda of Sri Valmiki Ramayana on 22 November, 1967, and continued till his last day. He took Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa as his ideal. He had surrendered his life totally to Sri Brahmachaitanya Maharaj of Gondavale. Whenever he was mentally upset due to any untoward incident, he was expressing his feelings to the Maharaj. His daily routine in the morning was, after completing the morning prayers and oblations he was visiting Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandir, offer prayers to the Deities and then have Theertha (holy water). It was only after this he was taking a cup of milk. Further, after Sundarakaanda Paaraayana he was taking his lunch. With this type of ascetic life, on 18 June, 1998, he folded his hands with reverence to the photo of Sri Brahmachaitanya Maharaj of Gondavale and closed his eyes permanently. Probably at that time during the last minute of his life, he might have had the vision of the Maharaj.
There may not be any subject which were not dealt by Sri Y.S.G. through his poems. In addition to devotional songs, he composed poems on subjects such as songs for happy occasions, philosophy, Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandira at Chintamani, Sahitya Koota, Patriotism, Experiences in Life and Society etc. In philosophical poems, reason and philosophy go hand in hand. In Elladagiruve Deva (where are You hiding Yourself) on page 223 and Ishtu Dooravu Bande ( I have come this far) on page 235, he has seen God in varied forms of nature. In Yaatara Madi Nammadu (What type of purity is ours) on page 227 he has upheld the necessity of purity of mind. Dehaabhimaanave Dharma Drumake Kuthaara (Attachment to one’s body is the axe to the tree of righteousness) on page 228 and Dehavanupekshipare Dhariniyolu ( How can we neglect our body on this earth) on page 237, even though appear outwardly to have opposite ideas, they propound the theory that this human body is a means to achieve realisation of God. Likewise, in Baalabeku Naavu (We have to live) on page 238, he has shown the meaningfulness of living in this world and further in Jeevana Yaatre Endige Mugideetu (When does my journey of life come to an end ) on page 242 he has searched the path to reach God. Orva Devana Bhajisu ( Worship one God ) on page 241 has preached to follow one’s own faith without insulting other faiths.
Sri Y.S.G. had firm belief in causality. This can be seen in his poems Guru Dayaakara (The Compassionate Guru) on page 14, Ravanana Kondavanu Sri Ramanalla (Sri Rama did not kill Ravana) on page 61, Karmasootrada Marmavanaritu (Having Known the Secret of Causality) on page 240, Jeevana Yaatre Endige Mugideetu (When Does My Journey of Life Come to an End) on page 242, Naanu Endenutihenu Naanaaru ( I am saying as ‘I’, Who am I’’).
The poem Namma Bhavya Bharatha (Our Magnificent Bharat), starting with the geographical description, gives the history from the Vedic period till the period after independence. Some of the patriotic songs are heroic.
Most of the poems composed by Sri Y.S.G. are devotional songs. Description of God in these songs are marvelous. When we listen to the songs Anandavidu (It is a bliss) on page 287 and Enu Dhanyaro (How much blessed) on page 286, we can have the beautiful sight of the Lovely Raghunath with Sita, Lakshmana, the famous Maruthi and Brahmachaitanya of upright conduct in Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandira of Chintamani. In all his devotional songs, utmost devotion and total surrender to God are very conspicuous.
Sri Y.S.G.’s worldly day to day life was not merely a bed of roses. It was as though he gave an invitation to poverty by leaving the job of a clerk in Taluk office with a monthly salary of Rs. 25/- and opted for the job of a school teacher with a monthly salary of Rs. 15/-. In those days, his was a big joint family. The suffering due to poverty has found expression in his poems Badabaagni ( Great Fire) on page 255, Idondu Chitra (This is a picture) on page 268 and Kanaso Nanaso ( Dream or Reality ) on page 275. Inspite of this, he never expressed dissatisfaction with anybody.
On my father’s demise, one of his close friends Sri C.M. Channabasavaiah had expressed his respects in the form of an elegy which gives a pen picture of my father. I express my gratitude to him for having given permission to publish the same along with this collection of poems.
Y.G. ANANTHA SASTRY
On receipt of letter informing the sad demise of Sri Y.S.Gundappa my heart became heavy.-- The emotional silent suffering has come out in the form of poetry. This is a tearful homage to the sacred soul.
On receipt of letter informing the sad demise of Sri Y.S.Gundappa my heart became heavy. The emotional silent suffering has come out in the form of poetry. This is a tearful homage to the sacred soul.
Sri Y.S.G.
Ripe mind, speech, body,
Filled with sensibility and lofty ideal
Handful of skeletal frame
With little bit of flesh and blood,
Covered with skin
Is his great body !
With turban and coat on
And feet with shoes on
Is his outward figure.
But, . . . . . . .
Inside is multifacetted.
Poet, orator, teacher, singer,
Organizer, leader.
And ? Devotee !.....A liberated soul.
Small figure, but
Fame reached upto Delhi.
Fruit concealed under leaves
But not concealed for parrots.
1Thirteen crore was going on
In his coat pocket every minute.
A saint without oblivion,
Knowledge at its pinnacle.
Speech like the Radiance of Shiva with
Many new anecdotes.
He is a friend.
Friend of all.
1 Even while walking with coat on, Sri Y.S.G. was performing Taraka Nama Japa with his right hand and rosary in his coat pocket
Friend of the old.
Friend of the young.
Hard determination,
Ascetic power. Result ?
Sahitya Koota the
Union of souls.
Warm treatment with dedication and earnestness
Is the foundation for development.
New, strange, unique.
Wonder, wonder, only wonder.
Cogitation on thousands of subjects, Geetha recital.
Daily deliberation.
Y.S.G.’s life of orderliness.
Here is my salutation, congratulation.
Gunda at the peak of devotion and earnestness.
Gundappa to friends, Gunda to kids.
Gundappa to elders, Gunda to youngsters.
It is a beautiful parrot, mine of experience.
A rare 1Chintamani of 2Chintamani.
Chaitanya merged into Brahmachaitanya.
Unique, precious, blessed, revered.
Sri Kavikinkara you are nonegoist.
Here is my salutation to you; salutation.
C.M. Channabasavaiah, M.Sc.,
Sri Sarana Sadana,
6th Cross, Jayachamarajendra Extension,
CHITRADURGA-577 501.
1. The wish yielding precious stone of heaven.
2. The town Chintamani in Kolar District, Karnataka, India.
1. Translation of the poem Baarayya Gurudeva on page 9
Come Gurudev, show the right path. P
I pray to You to give good wisdom A
I am stuck in worldly affairs and worried. Protect me, my True
Kinsman. 1
Give the Divine Light to me, who is not able to understand the true meaning of life. 2
Dance of devotion or singing with renunciation, I do not know which is suitable for salvation. Tell me (which is suitable for salvation). 3
Greatest of all, Knower of people’s mind, to give the good sense of worshipping You whole heartedly (come Gurudev). 4
To show the easy way of meditating on You by making me devoid of ‘I’ the selfish ego (come Gurudev). 5
How can I please You, Man of good character ? You, knowing my wish, protect me by granting the company of Your good disciples. 6
Oh Guru, You let Your grace in the form of sacred Japanusthana (i.e., repeating God’s name with the help of rosary) to continue for ever. 7
Show me the God who, in whatever form He is meditated upon, protects us in the same form. 8
Guru Brahmachaitanya, kindly protect by making the mind always to dwell on the Giver of boons, Champakadhama. 9
25-12-1948 Subodha, April 1949.
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2. Translation of the poem GuruDayaakara on pages 14–15
The Compassionate Guru Sri Brahmachaitanya, Saviour from great calamities, protect by removing the great illusion which has encompassed the Truth. P.A
I came to this world again, due to my arrogance without foresight in my previous birth. Those bad deeds are harassing in many ways today. Come, protect me Father. 1
I have this body and family to worship You on this earth. I am extremely tired without knowing the essence (of life). Remove the darkness to show the right path. 2
In the ocean waves of happy family, by letting the peace prevail without any ebb and tide, kindly grace me with the memory of Champakadhama’s multitudinous names. 3
19-2-1951 Subodha, November 1952
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3. Translation of the poem Kaala Munduvariyutide on pages 23–24
Age is advancing, life is coming to an end. P
Protect me Oh Guru, the Compassionate Brahmachaitanya. A
How many births have elapsed, how many more are awaited in the future? Give me contentment with this birth. 1
I have wasted my time for earning wealth. Filled with selfishness, I have forgotten my prayers to You. 2
I am flaunting by reviling and harassing (others). Relieve (me from) calamities. Give me Supreme Bliss. 3
Gray hair does not turn black, youth does not come back. Prepare my mind to know the Supreme Person. 4
The life span is sliding under the cover of illusion. The body is undergoing suffering. Oh Lord, You protect me today itself. 5
I came to this earth light. Stopped as the road disappeared. Suffered with the burden of sins. Oh Father, save immediately. 6
Oh Supreme Guru, kindly protect by gracing with everlasting love in the memory of The Supreme Sri Champakadhama. 7
Subodha, May 1956
Background: The above poem was composed by Sri Y.S.G. when he completed his 50th year.
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4. Translation of the poem Enna Manege Banda Bageyidem
O Raghava Neem on pages 59-60
Oh Raghava how is it You have come to my house?
I cannot see Your game.
Have you of exalted beauty come to show Your greatness? Your qualities are inexplicable. 1
I do not know whether my small house is liked by You. Everything that is mine is yours. 2
Oh Lord of this earth, are you coming with alacrity to witness the customs and practices in this poor man’s house? 3
Are you coming with joy thinking this to be 1Vidura’s or 2Sudama’s house ? This family is a vast ocean. 4
My house is under Your control. Your arrival is at Your will. Your departure is determined by You. 5
I do not know to worship. I cannot please You. I have total faith in You, Impeccable one. Unwavered devotion to You is by Your grace. 6
I pray to You, who is beyond all theories, to come quickly and be in this metal idol and be pleased. 7
Oh Compassionate to the humble, I beg You now to stay in my house and in my body and make me blessed. 8
Rama Sri Champakadhama please accept my worship with love and austerity and protect me. 9
Saraswathi, May 1942
Yathrika, Kananda Rajyothsava
Deepavali Special Issue, 1988.
Background: The above poem was composed when the poet received a one piece idol of Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sita with Maruthi from one of his relatives. The idol remained with him for about twenty years. As the idol required daily worship strictly according to scriptures which was not feasible in his house, the same was handed over to a religious institution.
1 Sri Krishna’s devotee
2 Sri Krishna’s boyhood friend who was poor but later on became rich by Krishna’s grace.
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5. Translation of the poem Ravanana Kondavanu Sri Ramanalla on pages 61 – 62
Sri Rama did not kill Ravana ! Not our Rama ! P
The Pure Soul has no hatred at all. A
[Following stanzas, No. 1 & 2 explain how Rama could not have killed Ravana]
Having protected 1Ahalya with alacrity, having saved wicked 2Kakasura with pity, having lovingly relished the fruits offered by 3Shabari, how can such a Peaceful Person with eternal smile on His face kill? 1
Having gone to forest on the words of mother, having received with affection demon’s brother (4Vibhishana), having given up his wife to please his subjects, how can such a Compassionate Person who has shown such greatness, kill. 2
[Following stanza no.3 explains the reasons behind Ravana’s death.]
Heat of curse by 5Nandi and 6Nalakoobara, curse pronounced by grieved 7Vedavathi – all these surrounded the wicked ten necked (Ravana) and killed him. How is Ramachandra responsible (for the killing)? 3
[Then, what Rama has done is explained in Stanza No. 4.]
Having taken pity on the ten headed (Ravana) on this earth, having washed away all the sins of the demon, having desired to easily give salvation, the Lord rejoiced. Did he himself kill ? 4
[The last stanza below gives the moral of this poem]
One has to reap what is sown. Keeping this in mind, man has to perform his duties and offer the same to Janaki’s consort Champakadhama and meditate (on Him). This will give peace in the world. 5
Subodha, October 1951.
[Background : Once, Y.S.G. took one of his friends to Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandir at Chintamani. The idols there are lively and lovely. Y.S.G.’s friend on looking at the idols exclaimed, “Gundappa, Rama is with such a pleasant smile on his face and is peaceful. How such a person killed Ravana?” These words inspired Y.S.G. to compose the above poem Ravanana Kondavanu Sri Ramanalla (Sri Rama did not kill Ravana).
1 Wife of Sage Gauthama.
2 Demon disguised as a crow.
3 A Bhilla old woman who was a disciple of sage Matanga and a great devotee of Sri
Rama.
4 Youngest brother of Ravana.
5 A bull which is the mount of Lord Shiva.
6 Son of Kubera the god of wealth.
7 Daughter of sage Kushadhwaja who did penance to get Lord Vishnu as her
husband.
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6. Translation of the poem Poorva Dikkinalli Putti
(Sooryadeva) on pages 126 - 128
Who is the God, born in the east, illuminating the earth, shines with extraordinary brightness? Who protects all creatures daily ? 1
Who protects by dispelling darkness on the earth, sitting on the eastern mountains, extending with kindness his thousand hands? Who makes the world smile always ? 2
Who by making darkness disappear, going round the world has shown not to while away time? And who is the person measuring time? 3
Who comes when the eastern sky is red, when the stars are running away (i.e., disappearing), when the night withdraws with shyness, when the god of wind spreads fragrance by running (i.e., blowing) ? 4
Having known the onset of red colour before dawn, waking up and dancing on trees, whom do the birds pray daily by chirping with delight ? 5
Who with noble intention, shines over good objects as well as over objects which are not good? Who looks at every thing in the same manner ? 6
Who gives life to the world by quickly heating the ocean with sunlight, forming the cluster of clouds by wind, and heavily pouring down the
rain ? 7
Who shows all living beings on this earth that, happiness and sorrow are part of day to day life? Who is the creator of light and darkness ? 8
Who is the eternal witness to all good and bad deeds done by all living beings? Who is the Omnipresent eye for the whole world ? 9
Who is the root cause of the race of Raghu, in the form of Vishnu, Brahma, Sankara? He is The Sun God who shines with great grandeur. 10 ______
7. Translation of the poem Deva Ninnanu Sevisuve (Manasa Pooje) on pages 154-155
MENTAL WORSHIP
God, I serve You. P
Holy One, I worship You. A
You have pervaded Yourself throughout the world and the whole world is in You. Lord of the world, I cannot comprehend the illusory world. 1
Being everywhere in this world in many forms, when called delightfully with smile, You come by manifesting Yourself. 2
Having purified my body, having requested You to live in my lotus heart, I pray with love. 3
After coming quickly, making my heart Your abode, blessing me and averting the perils, accept my salutation. 4
After giving with all earnestness, ritualistic bath with devotion as water, I offer truth as clean cloth and worship (You) daily. 5
I worship (You) by offering intensely, altruism as fragrant scent, true nonviolence as flowers and kindness as food. 6
I pray (to You) with devotion, after burning my selfishness to annihilate as camphor, and after praising and lighting the lamp. 7
Supreme God, Lord Sri Champakadhama, safely protect by giving a clear mind for me to know you properly. 8
26-12-1934 Saraswathi, February 1943
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8. Translation of the poem Nudisidante Nudive on pages 164-
165
I speak as you make me speak, Oh Guru. I am acting as You make me act. P
I tread the path as You lead me. A
Oh Friend of the depressed, You give me good wisdom to understand that You are the only refuge after enlightening my mind with knowledge and shedding off my ego. 1
My body is Your temple. My work is Your worship. You are the only Guide in my journey. Oh Glorious One, protect me by showing the right path. 2
Sri Champakadhama, You are Omnipresent, Omnipotent, Great Overlord, Witness of all, Refuge of all, without hideousness, without confusion. 3
26-9-1952 Subodha, December 1952
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9. Translation of the poem Kartavyaparanaagi Maadenna
Guruve on page 166
Oh Guru, make me dutiful so that my life on this earth becomes meaningful. P.A
Sathya Harischandra sold his wife. Lord Ramachandra went to forest. Goddess Daakshaayini entered fire. Kindly make me understand the principle (behind these acts) on this earth. 1
I read epics, hear stories and use philosophical words without fail. In anger and at the time of achieving self-interest, I do not know what happens to all that I read. 2
Being a burden on others and without looking at others’ happiness, I worship You with all grandeur, Oh God. Give me good sense to be empathetic towards others. Make me keep my promises always. 3
Oh Lord, knowing You as the Time spirit, I pray You by offering salutations to the Time. I am not punctual and regular. Protect me by making me understand the value of Time. 4
Protect me from difficulties due to greed and from succumbing to deceitful situation. Oh Lord of Sita, Lord of Lakshmi, Rama Champakadhama give me good servitude of the virtuous. 5
22-2-1956 Subodha, April 1956.
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10. Translation of the poem Dhanavu Nelavam Seruvudu on
page 223
Money is buried underneath the earth. Cattle stay back in the shed, wife upto the door and other men follow upto the crematorium. Body reaches pyre. In the journey to the other world the soul goes alone along with the fruit of its deeds.
11-2-1929
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11. Translation of the poem Elladagiruve Deva on page 223
Where are You hiding Yourself, God ! You are beautiful, good natured! I am not able to see You anywhere! Great God.
Are you inside this world ? Is the world inside You ? Are You beyond the outer regions of this world ? Eventhough You are in (each and every) atom, dust particle, straw, wood, Oh God ! I do not understand the nature of Your existence, Oh Lord. 1
Are you in the shining sun ! Are You in the delightful moon! Are You hiding in the (rain) water coming down! Even though I have experienced rain, sunshine, moonlight, I do not know even to imagine Your radiant abode. 2
Are You hiding in the fragrance of flowers! Even by smelling flowers I do not know your sign. Are You in the beauty of the garden during lovely spring! Having seen all this on this earth, I have not seen You. 3
In the hot summer, when tired, when I expose myself and sit under the shade of a tree, are You in the pleasant breeze from the tree. Inspite of having many happy experiences, I do not know You! 4
As one forgets oneself while singing, are You in music which gives delight to the mind! Even though I have experienced the joy of music, I have not seen You who is absorbed in music, Oh Guru! 5
Smaller than the atom and bigger than the biggest, You are seen by Your greatness in this world. I am in my body and You are in me. When I understand the Self, I understand You. 6
Just as something, which is already in the house, is searched outside, I have not seen You who is in me. I beseech You to quickly remove the veil of darkness and illuminate the light of knowledge in my mind. 7
As one sun shines in crores of water drops, You are in everything. RamaChampakadhama the giver of boons, I appeal to You to protect me by kindly revealing Yourself to me. 8
Prabuddha Karnataka, 1930
Maguvina Maime, 1946
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12. Translation of the poem Yaatara Madi Nammadu on page
227
What type of purity is ours! Life without the thought of Raghunath is a waste. P
What type of purity was observed by 1Ajamila to get salvation? What type of purity was undertaken by Shabari who offered fruits to the Supreme Person? 1
Just as a pond is with crocodile, if the mind is filled with poison, work done with honeyed words is futile. 2
By thoroughly purifying the mind, wishing others well, remembering Sri Champakadhama the Consort of Mother Earth’s daughter (i.e., Sita) is the real purity. 3
10-5-1935 Subodha, May 1953
Even though Ajamila lead sinful life, he got salvation for having uttered
Narayana’s name before death.
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13. Translation of the poem Dehaabhimaanave on page 228
Attachment to one’s body is the axe to the tree of righteousness. P
Infatuation and selfishness are the store house of grief. A
Anger is 1Yama, lust is 2Vaitharani. Feeling of disparity, greed and pride are the dreadful hell on this earth. Singing of hymn on Sridhara is heavenly bliss. 1
Company of the wicked is the cruel noose of Yama. Lust for other man’s wife is 3Halahala poison. Vilification of others is the root cause of sinful deeds. Hurting the feeling of others is total annihilation. 2
Always being truthful is penance. Righteous act is 4Japa. Helping others is greater worship. Wishing good to others is the path of knowledge on this earth. Remembering Champakadhama the Giver of boons gives salvation. 3
Saraswathi, April 1943.
1. God of death
2. River on the way to hell.
3. Poison produced at the time of churning the ocean by gods and demons.
4. Repeated chanting of God’s name usually with the help of rosary.
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14. Translation of the poem Kaviyentu Naanaade on page
229
How can I be a poet without You, the Pure Intellect (and) without You quickly enlightening my mind in this world ? P.A
Oh God, without giving life to my breath how can I be considered as a living being ? 1
How can I speak without 1Saraswathi on my tongue? How can I become an enlightened man without meditating on You? 2
How were Dhruvabala, Prahlada, Valmiki known as ascetics on this earth? 3
How can Poet Ravindra’s poetry, Ravivarma’s paintings become famous without You in their description ? 4
Oh Supreme Spirit, can the compositions of blessed Thyagaraja and Purandaradasa be beautiful without You on this earth ? 5
Champakadhama please give me pure knowledge that You are Supreme in the whole universe. 6
15-11-1944. Subodha, May 1950.
1. Goddess of learning.
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15. Translation of the poem Enidenidu Maaya on page 231
What is this illusion? The way to come out (of this illusion) is not seen. P
What a great wonder is the behaviour of human beings ! A
How (one) comes to this earth? Again how (he) leaves? How to understand the births and deaths which are always seen? How to know the gap between men’s happiness and sorrow? What is the secret of activities on this earth? 1
Thinking that happiness is in this illusory world, I am stuck in the vast ocean of transmigration and extremely tired. Hence, give me the true wisdom to understand God who shows the path (to come out of transmigration), Oh Valiant Champakadhama. 2
Balakabir, 1946
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16. Translation of the poem Enidu Bari Baduku on page 234
What is this mere life which is just a pretense? P
Human life is like dalliance in a drama. A
It is a wonder that many characters are tied with one another by the strings of Karma (i.e., causation) on this earth as stage . 1
(Why people) are supercilious, thinking that the role (they) play for just half a moment is permanent. 2
Act of love by the proud actor according to one’s Karma is pure drama. 3
We should know our quintessence quickly by removing the veil of illusion on this earth. 4
Rama Sri Champakadhama is the only refuge to know the secret of righteous life. 5
12-5-1949 Subodha, April 1950
_______
17. Translation of the poem Ishtu Dooravu Bande on page
235
I have come this far, how much (I have to go) further? P
Oh Creator! You make me carry on with the journey, Oh Father. A
Oh Immaculate One, in the beginning I came from You. I travelled in different paths. With delight, I got the knowledge of Your skill in (Your) creation. Oh Compassionate One, the path to reach You is disappearing. 1
Once I moved in beautiful garden of flowers. Again I was wandering in lustreless forest. I amused myself being in various bodies on this earth. An abode for resting is not yet seen. 2
Kindly let the endless illusory wandering continue peacefully. Father of 1Manmatha, Consort of 2Lakshmi, Champakadhama, protect me by taking me to the region of Your feet joyfully.
18-05-1949 Subodha, June 1952
1. God of love.
2. Goddess of wealth.
_______
18. Translation of the poem Dehavanupekshipare on pages 237-238
How can we neglect our body on this earth which is the house for the grand worship of God? P.A
This machine (i.e., the body) which extracts the essence from different dense matter originated out of the five elements (i.e., earth, ether, fire, water and air) on this earth, makes it (i.e., the essence) start creation and gives support to the source of life in the new world. 1
The beautiful body which understands the enchanting beauty of nature with the help of the five sense organs should not be pampered or withered except that it should be filled with Satva (i.e., mettle). 2
Why one should ignore the body which is ready to serve the guests with a spirit of sacrifice? Not succumbing to any decease, not permitting libidinousness, this wonder (i.e., the body) is fit to be a temple of austerities. 3
Being born as a human being among crores of living beings on this earth is considered the best. This (body) is a magnificent means to welcome the God of gods and to light the lamp of knowledge. 4
Without polluting the mind with the idea that this life is transient; with the belief that this (i.e., the body) is the temple of the Lord and is mercifully given (to us) by the Lord of the universe RamaChampakadhama, should be kept clean daily for offering to the Spirit of the universe. 5
6-5-1953 Subodha, July 1953
_______
19. Translation of the poem Baalabeku Naavu on pages 238-
239
We have to live here in this world sportfully to serve Srilola ( i.e., Vishnu). P.A
They talk of heaven. Is that heaven in any way equal to this earth? This is the land of unparalleled virtue with happiness of rich natural beauty. Here (We have to live). 1
Does the sun shine over the eastern mountain ? Does the moon shine delightfully? Does that world (i.e., heaven) has stars twinkling in varied ways ? 2
The gods having seen and examined the living beings on this earth, wondered at the sacredness and admired the truth and 1Sanjeevana on this earth. Hence, (we have to live.) 3
The Supreme Person to have everlasting happiness, created Mother Earth, human beings etc., and himself has incarnated. Hence, (we have to live.) 4
The Giver of desired objects Sri Raghu Rama Sri Champakadhama being here (we have to live here) to see the lovely form of the Person with enchanting body and praise (Him) ritualistically. 5
31-12-1953 Subodha, April 1954
Background : This poem was composed when the poet’s wife (my mother) passed away.
1. Herb believed to bring back dead to life.
_______
20. Translation of the poem Karmasutrada Marmavanaritu on page 240
Having known the secret of causality, are we to merely blame the law of righteousness? P
On this earth, which is our place of work, are we to live without doing good work, with love? A
Did preceptor Vasishta, when he stipulated the time for the coronation of the Best among Raghus (i.e., Sri Rama), think that He (i.e., Sri Rama) would be going to the forest? Are we not under the control of the mighty causality? 1
How much strong was the causality of the father (of Sri Krishna) which made the Person (i.e., Sri Krishna) who killed Putana, (not to get His parents released) on that very day, and to wait for a future occasion to get his parents released from prison. 2
Death of Dasharatha, fall of the ten headed (Ravana), wandering of the daughter (Sita) of Mother Earth, death of Parikshit of lunar race are examples of fruit of action. 3
After understanding the visible sorrowful experiences on this earth, does man not get advancement by the divine grace from enlightened souls ? 4
Consort of Lakshmi, Rama Sri Champakadhama the Compassionate Person is the only refuge for us to bear the heat of bad deeds and do acts of kindness to the people. 5
24-8-1954 Subodha, September 1954
21. Translation of the poem Orva Devana Bhajisu Ele
Manave on pages 241-242
Oh mind, worship one God, the Lord of all, the way your elders have taught you. P.A
(Worhip one God) as Hari, as Hara, as Sri Rama the husband of Mother Earth’s daughter (Sita), as Krishna the Killer of Mura, as Narasimha or as Sri Venkataramana the giver of boons. 1
Understanding and following the teachings of any one among Guru Shankara, Madhwa, Great Ramanuja or Paramahamsa and by remembering (the teachings) daily and by achieving the goal (worship one God). 2
Learning with earnestness the great messages from Prophets Buddha, Christ, Mohammed and always preparing our pure mind for uplifting righteousness (worship one God). 3
Thinking that other faiths are dreadful and on examination our faith is propitious; without slighting other faiths always worship God without ostentation. 4
Just as innumerable drops of water from the sky reach the ocean, various prayers to different gods reach one Lord of the universe. Knowing this, (worship one God). 5
Beseeching purity of mind, truthfulness, company of good people and principle of nonviolence (from God and) mentally adoring (Him) with delight, (worship one God). 6
(Worship one God) as Master Sri Brahmachaitanya who shows with love the easy way of (always) remembering the name of Rama Sri Champakadhama and protects (us) safely. 7
Subodha, November 1956.
_______
22. Translation of the poem Jeevana Yaatre on pages 242-243
When does (my) journey of life come to an end ? How does the manifestation of our God Sri Rama take place ? P.A
Bound by births and deaths, I have come to this earth many times. How much time is needed to see the end (to this births and deaths), Oh Lord? 1
I had many fathers and mothers and countless relatives. Is there any liberation from bondage (from previous births) which has come over a long time? 2
Many brothers, many wives and sons came along with me and many left me in the middle on this earth and gone. On this earth (when does my journey of life come to an end)? 3
There are many affectionate friends and many who hurt and walked away. The illusory world makes me believe that they (i.e., friends etc.,) are permanent on this earth. In this illusory world, (when does my journey of life come to an end)? 4
Today’s various perturbations are the result of actions in previous birth. Present life (i.e., action in this life) is the root for the foundation of next birth. 5
As the darkness approaches, all the birds in the surrounding area flock on a tree and again at day break scatter away. Likewise, when does our journey of life come to an end ? 6
When do I find the sacred path which was tread by the kind ascetics and virtuous men on this earth and which takes us to Rama Sri Champakadhama? 7
8-5-1958 Bhajane, 1958.
_______
23. Translation of the poem Astagrahayogadali on pages
246-247
Confluence of eight planets (people say) is harmful (even) when there is the support of remembering Hari’s Name in this creation. P
While Earth, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, Kethu are going round the great Sun continuously according to the laws of nature, once when they come on one side of the earth, should there be any place for fear and confusion? 1
In the solar system, the planets without breaking the laws of nature go round the sun, showing the principle of loyalty to their duty and to make us aware of our duty on this earth. Will this do any harm in this world? 2
How were the group of planets responsible for the death of Ravana’s reserve army and huge army of Kauravas? We have to lead our lives keeping in mind that we are the root cause for our pleasures and pains. 3
What the gods of nine planets do to men, who worship and offer oblation to the nine planets, but live by keeping aside ethics and rules in their transactions, having lost truthfulness ? 4
Having understood the limitations of our life on this earth, if we transact without slandering others, the planets joyfully bless us. Rama Champakadhama now keep our lives obsolutely clean. 5
Background : The above poem was composed when there was a confluence of eight planets in the year 1962. During that time, Homas (oblation to fire) were performed to appease the gods of nine planets and to ward off their ill effect. Many people including Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru opposed this type of Homa. This poem gives the opinion of the poet on the confluence of eight planets.
_______
24. Translation of the poem Naanu Endenutihenu Naanaaru
on pages 249-250
I am saying as ‘I’. Who am I ? Who are You ? Whether I am Yourself or You are myself, I do not know !
I do not know my beginning. I do not know my end. I cannot imagine the secret of my life’s course. My previous birth and my future path do not come to my mind. What is it, that is Yours? 1
This body is mine; hands and legs are mine; two each eyes and ears are mine; the mind is mine; all sense organs are mine. Then what is that ‘I’ in my body? 2
Supreme Person, concealing Your quality of Satva (i.e., quintessence), having created the whole world by the quality of Rajas (i.e., imperiousness) You destroy the world by the quality of Tamas (i.e., ignorance, darkness, grief, etc.). But, You have bound me by the great causality. 3
Just like sparks are emanated from fire, water drops from clouds, Oh Great One, I came from You earlier. Just like water drops reach cloud, I reach You. 4
Having separated from You in accordance with causality, earlier I got into this body formed by the five elements (i.e., earth, ether, fire, water and air). Bound by Your illusion, having forgotten You and having developed egoism (i.e., feeling of I and mine), I have flaunted with pride. 5
Having made the body the home, being with my wife, having given place to the six enemies (i.e., libidinousness, anger, greed, infatuation, arrogance and envy) in my mind and having earned money to please relatives, I lost Your memory. I trusted that this body is permanent. 6
I shall clean my house (body), which is not permanent, to worship You. I beg (You) with devotion, to stay in my lotus heart and make me Yours. 7
I am a soul where as, You are the Supreme God. I am with body where as, You are formless without body. I am with the three qualities (i.e., Satva, Rajas and Tamas) where as, You are beyond the three qualities. You are free from the effects of action where as, I am bound by the effects of action. 8
I am a humble man where as, You are affectionate to humble men. I am in this body whereas, You are throughout the universe. I am only a kite where as, You are its controller. You play with that (Kite), holding it by the string of causality. 9
I am blessed if You close Your play now and merge me in You at the earliest. Oh God Champakadhama, protect me by giving the supreme knowledge that I am aware of my presence in You. 10
_______
25. Translation of the poem Enu Dhanyaro on pages 286–287
This poem of ecstatic experience was sung by the poet during the installation ceremony of white marble idols of Sri Sita Rama Lakshmana Maruthi and Sri Brahmachaitanya on 13th June, 1949 at Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandira in Chintmani.
How much blessed we are and how many good deeds we might have done (due to which) we are seeing the Consort of Sri Janaki. P
To see on this earth the Kinsman of humble men Himself entering the idol (how much blessed we are). A
Lotus eyed God, who is immeasurable, to take care of His devotees with zeal on this earth, has stayed in the bright white marble idol and this sight is eye-catching. Hence (how much blessed we are). 1
By making Lord of Raghus, Mother Sita, Lakshmana, Maruthi to stay with affection in idols along with Himself, Brahmachaitanya Sadguru has shown love (towards us). Hence (how much blessed we are). 2
Having joyously made us feel this (Chintamani) as Ayodhya and Gondavali, a sacred pilgrim centre, Sadguru has mercifully given us the treasure of Sri Ramanama (i.e., Sri Rama’s name). Hence, (how much blessed we are). 3
The Saviour of the Vedas, Lover of devotees, protecting the world with smile on His face, in the form of RaghuRama has come to give peace to this world. Hence, (how much blessed we are). 4
This Chintamani town on this earth, filled and overflowing with Ramanama (i.e., Rama’s name), being safe, (we) pray to the personification of love, Rama Sri Champakadhama. Hence, (how much blessed we are). 5
12-6-1949 Sadguru Geethe
_______
26. Translation of the poem Sarvasama Bhavaneya on pages
289–290
This virtuous mansion of penance with feeling of equality for all is the grand Vaikuntha on this earth. P.A
This is the home of pious men where peace is found and where affectionate good vocation guides towards salvation. This house without differentiation is showing its greatness. This hermitage which creates happiness is a model abode. 1
Truth is the foundation. Righteousness is the roof. This is enclosed by walls covered with paintings. Here is the environment of love, remembering the name of Sri Rama with grand festivity daily, filled with His praise and Japa. 2
This is the holy place of incomparable sacredness with huge main entrance and very beautiful compound. The Sanctum Sanctorum gives total bliss. Here, at this place of deliverance, the Lord has manifested Himself. 3
This is the abode of the blissful Sadguru Samartha, who came with joy, to make Chintamani town as Gondavali in beauty, and to protect the group of devotees here. 4
Refuge for the true brahmins to serve ; true abode of Champakadhama known by the Vedas; home of true devotion, knowledge and renunciation – is Sri Brahmachaitanya Sri Rama Mandira. 5
Subodha, 1955
_______
27. Translation of the poem Oorella Suttidaru (Bhikshukana
Yaatre) on pages 294–295
BEGGAR’S PILGRIMAGE
Even after going round the town (the beggar) did not get weekly food. The beggar has come to ask for speech with substance. 1
He is on pilgrimage by humbly walking to every house, school and lofty office. 2
The beggar, for the protection of literature, begs for spectators and speech with special quality. 3
The servant of men of letters of Sahitya Koota, which is the shelter to men of letters, yearns for encouragement. 4
Do favour by not breaking the link in the chain of weekly programmes. 5
He (i.e., the beggar) requests the men and women of culture to submit their day to day experiences before Sri Parthasarathi. 6
You all come with alacrity on Saturday evenings; with intense longing participate in Bhajan (i.e., singing of songs in praise of God) joyfully. 7
He requests those who come once not to stay back (without coming) and to assemble day by day. 8
By singing the hymn of peace there, one will have peace of mind. Happiness exists in the company of saints. 9
Spiritual knowledge is the best of all types of knowledge. That (spiritual) knowledge is achieved amidst men with self-realisation. 10
The Supreme Spirit (i.e., God) is around a group of some ten people. Assembly of righteous people is filled with contentment. 11
Champakadhama the giver of boons, who always inspires, protects people in the atmosphere of literature. 12
Yathrika, Bangalore, 15-9-1987.
_______
28. Translation of the poem Shaaleye Degula Maagal on page
297
School being a temple, children being gods, teaching staff worshipping with amusement, parents are renowned devotees on this earth.
May the all merciful Sri Ramachandra Champakadhama give inexhaustible felicity, auspiciousness, tranquility and love to the whole world continuously.
________
Y.S.G.- a pen picture
Y.S.G - A PEN PICTURE
My revered father Sri Y.S.Gundappa (Y.S.G.) was born in Anekal (Bangalore District) on 12th June, 1905. His parents Sri Subrahmanyaiya and Smt. Gowramma were from an orthodox and pious family. The family shifted to Bangalore in the year 1913. By the year 1919, Sri Y.S.G. had already started composing devotional songs (i.e., Devaranamas). He got his primary school education in Tipu Sultan’s palace premises. He completed his middle school in the present Fort High School premises. He passed S.S.L.C. Examination from Malleswaram Government High School. His academic education ended with his attending classes for ten months for entrance examination.
Sri Y.S.G. was appointed as a clerk in Hosakote Taluk Office (Bangalore District) with a monthly salary of Rs. 25/-. As he was interested in teaching profession, he requested the Amaldar (at present Tahsildar) to get him appointed as a teacher. Accordingly, he became a teacher with a monthly salary of Rs. 15/-. Due to his dedication and devotion as a teacher, he got National Award on 22 Nov., 1963, by the then President of India Dr. S. Radhakrishnan. Consequently, he was felicitated in Chintamani Town Hall on 26th January, 1964. On this occasion Sri N.S. Rama Rao, Head Master of Chintamani Municipal High School read the following lines about Y.S.G.
WHO IS Y.S.G. ?
Y - Young in spirit
S - Simple and sociable in habits
G - God fearing
U - Upright in dealings
N - Nice and neat in work
D - Dutiful in service
A - Active throughout
P - Punctual always
P - Perfect in everything
A - Adjustable to one and all
is our beloved Y.S.G.
Sri Y.S.G. has thanked in a poem (Kritajnatheya Kusumagalu meaning Flowers of Gratitude on page 281) all those who helped him in his achievement. Consequently, in the year 1966, he was honoured by the state government and other organizations such as Rotary Club, Lions Club, etc.
His literary activity, which started in the year 1919 with the composition of devotional songs, gradually spread to other areas. ‘Sri Kavi Kinkara’ (meaning Servant of Poet) was his pen name. Most of his compositions are dedicated to the Family Deity Sri. Champakadhama Swamy. Every year he was publishing New year (Ugadi) greetings in the form of poems and sending them to his friends and relatives.
Following is the list of books written by him. He was a contributor of articles and poems to various periodicals.
I BOOKS
1. Gaana Rasaayana (Devotional songs) 1925
2. Karmasesha ( Story ) 1926
3. Ahimsaa Paramodharma (Story) 1930
4. Tholaraayana Sabhe (Drama) 1930
5. Dhruva Baala (Drama) 1932
6. Bhraathrubhakthaagrani Lakshmana 1935
Murthy (Story)
(This was prescribed as a text book in
Madras State. It was recommended for libraries
in Mysore and Bombay States.)
7. Baalaka Bhandaara (Multiplication tables) 1938
8. Goliya Myme (Drama) 1942
9. Maguvina Myme (Drama) 1946
10. Baala Kabir (Drama) 1946
11. Kaasina Gantu (Drama) 1947
12. Sadguru Geethe (Devotional Songs) 1950
13. Bangaaradangaalu (Collection of selected 1984
works of Y.S.G., published by Geleyara Balaga,
Chintamani.)
Books at Sl. No. 4, 5 & 9 were recommended for primary and middle school libraries in Mysore State.
II. Dramas enacted by Sri C.B. Mallappa’s Sri Chandramouleshwara Drama Company during 1935-38.
1. Mamatha Moksha
2. Adrista
3. Vidhivilaasa
III. Poems and articles were contributed to various Kannada periodicals and dailies.
An epic on Bhagawan Buddha, composed in Bhamini Shatpadi, (Stanza with six lines) is so far not published.
Sri Y.S.G. was encouraged in his literary activities by literary stalwarts in Kannada literature such as M.R. Sreenivasa Murthy, Bellave Narahari Shastri, Masti Venkatesha Iyengar (Recipient of Jnana Peetha Prashasthi), C.K.Venkataramaiah and others. Incidentally, M.R. Sreenivasa Murthy was Y.S.G.’s teacher.
Sri. Y.S.G. was an active participant in many cultural and literary organisations. On 12 April, 1948, he started a study circle in Chintamani which was named as ‘Sahitya Koota’ (meaning Literary Gathering). From 19 January, 1957, every Saturday, evening programmes are being arranged in Sahitya Koota. The Saturday Evening Programme is a model for punctuality, a good literary taste, discipline and cultured behaviour. The programme is given by not only literary giants but also common people interested in literature. Bhagawan Sri Parthasarathy is the Deity of the Koota and ‘Kaalaaya Tasmai Namaha’ (meaning Salutations to the Time Spirit) is the slogan. On occasions when Sri Y.S.G. had to go out of town, he was arranging the person to preside over the function and the singer or speaker for the evening. He was preparing the pamphlets for the function and distributing personally. Due to his perseverance and the momentum he gave, the Saturday programmes are still continuing without any break. The poem Bhikshukana Yaathre (meaning Beggar’s pilgrimage) on page 294 gives a picture of his struggle to arrange these programmes. When he was sick and physically exhausted, he attended the 2159th Saturday programme on 13th June, 1998, and this became his last Saturday on this earth. Some of his disciples and admirers are continuing the Sahitya Koota. (I have joined in June 2002 after my retirement from service.)
My revered father Sri Y.S.Gundappa (Y.S.G.) was born in Anekal (Bangalore District) on 12th June, 1905. His parents Sri Subrahmanyaiya and Smt. Gowramma were from an orthodox and pious family. The family shifted to Bangalore in the year 1913. By the year 1919, Sri Y.S.G. had already started composing devotional songs (i.e., Devaranamas). He got his primary school education in Tipu Sultan’s palace premises. He completed his middle school in the present Fort High School premises. He passed S.S.L.C. Examination from Malleswaram Government High School. His academic education ended with his attending classes for ten months for entrance examination.
Sri Y.S.G. was appointed as a clerk in Hosakote Taluk Office (Bangalore District) with a monthly salary of Rs. 25/-. As he was interested in teaching profession, he requested the Amaldar (at present Tahsildar) to get him appointed as a teacher. Accordingly, he became a teacher with a monthly salary of Rs. 15/-. Due to his dedication and devotion as a teacher, he got National Award on 22 Nov., 1963, by the then President of India Dr. S. Radhakrishnan. Consequently, he was felicitated in Chintamani Town Hall on 26th January, 1964. On this occasion Sri N.S. Rama Rao, Head Master of Chintamani Municipal High School read the following lines about Y.S.G.
WHO IS Y.S.G. ?
Y - Young in spirit
S - Simple and sociable in habits
G - God fearing
U - Upright in dealings
N - Nice and neat in work
D - Dutiful in service
A - Active throughout
P - Punctual always
P - Perfect in everything
A - Adjustable to one and all
is our beloved Y.S.G.
Sri Y.S.G. has thanked in a poem (Kritajnatheya Kusumagalu meaning Flowers of Gratitude on page 281) all those who helped him in his achievement. Consequently, in the year 1966, he was honoured by the state government and other organizations such as Rotary Club, Lions Club, etc.
His literary activity, which started in the year 1919 with the composition of devotional songs, gradually spread to other areas. ‘Sri Kavi Kinkara’ (meaning Servant of Poet) was his pen name. Most of his compositions are dedicated to the Family Deity Sri. Champakadhama Swamy. Every year he was publishing New year (Ugadi) greetings in the form of poems and sending them to his friends and relatives.
Following is the list of books written by him. He was a contributor of articles and poems to various periodicals.
I BOOKS
1. Gaana Rasaayana (Devotional songs) 1925
2. Karmasesha ( Story ) 1926
3. Ahimsaa Paramodharma (Story) 1930
4. Tholaraayana Sabhe (Drama) 1930
5. Dhruva Baala (Drama) 1932
6. Bhraathrubhakthaagrani Lakshmana 1935
Murthy (Story)
(This was prescribed as a text book in
Madras State. It was recommended for libraries
in Mysore and Bombay States.)
7. Baalaka Bhandaara (Multiplication tables) 1938
8. Goliya Myme (Drama) 1942
9. Maguvina Myme (Drama) 1946
10. Baala Kabir (Drama) 1946
11. Kaasina Gantu (Drama) 1947
12. Sadguru Geethe (Devotional Songs) 1950
13. Bangaaradangaalu (Collection of selected 1984
works of Y.S.G., published by Geleyara Balaga,
Chintamani.)
Books at Sl. No. 4, 5 & 9 were recommended for primary and middle school libraries in Mysore State.
II. Dramas enacted by Sri C.B. Mallappa’s Sri Chandramouleshwara Drama Company during 1935-38.
1. Mamatha Moksha
2. Adrista
3. Vidhivilaasa
III. Poems and articles were contributed to various Kannada periodicals and dailies.
An epic on Bhagawan Buddha, composed in Bhamini Shatpadi, (Stanza with six lines) is so far not published.
Sri Y.S.G. was encouraged in his literary activities by literary stalwarts in Kannada literature such as M.R. Sreenivasa Murthy, Bellave Narahari Shastri, Masti Venkatesha Iyengar (Recipient of Jnana Peetha Prashasthi), C.K.Venkataramaiah and others. Incidentally, M.R. Sreenivasa Murthy was Y.S.G.’s teacher.
Sri. Y.S.G. was an active participant in many cultural and literary organisations. On 12 April, 1948, he started a study circle in Chintamani which was named as ‘Sahitya Koota’ (meaning Literary Gathering). From 19 January, 1957, every Saturday, evening programmes are being arranged in Sahitya Koota. The Saturday Evening Programme is a model for punctuality, a good literary taste, discipline and cultured behaviour. The programme is given by not only literary giants but also common people interested in literature. Bhagawan Sri Parthasarathy is the Deity of the Koota and ‘Kaalaaya Tasmai Namaha’ (meaning Salutations to the Time Spirit) is the slogan. On occasions when Sri Y.S.G. had to go out of town, he was arranging the person to preside over the function and the singer or speaker for the evening. He was preparing the pamphlets for the function and distributing personally. Due to his perseverance and the momentum he gave, the Saturday programmes are still continuing without any break. The poem Bhikshukana Yaathre (meaning Beggar’s pilgrimage) on page 294 gives a picture of his struggle to arrange these programmes. When he was sick and physically exhausted, he attended the 2159th Saturday programme on 13th June, 1998, and this became his last Saturday on this earth. Some of his disciples and admirers are continuing the Sahitya Koota. (I have joined in June 2002 after my retirement from service.)
ಗುರುವಾರ, ಏಪ್ರಿಲ್ 17, 2008
A poem on Y.S.Gundappa
Sri Y.S.G.
Ripe mind, speech, body,
Filled with sensibility and lofty ideal
Handful of skeletal frame
With little bit of flesh and blood,
Covered with skin
Is his great body !
With turban and coat on
And feet with shoes on
Is his outward figure.
But, . . . . . . .
Inside is multifacetted.
Poet, orator, teacher, singer,
Organizer, leader.
And ? Devotee !.....A liberated soul.
Small figure, but
Fame reached upto Delhi.
Fruit concealed under leaves
But not concealed for parrots.
1Thirteen crore was going on
In his coat pocket every minute.
A saint without oblivion,
Knowledge at its pinnacle.
Speech like the Radiance of Shiva with
Many new anecdotes.
He is a friend.
Friend of all.
1 Even while walking with coat on, Sri Y.S.G. was performing Taraka Nama Japa with his right hand and rosary in his coat pocket
Friend of the old.
Friend of the young.
Hard determination,
Ascetic power. Result ?
Sahitya Koota the
Union of souls.
Warm treatment with dedication and earnestness
Is the foundation for development.
New, strange, unique.
Wonder, wonder, only wonder.
Cogitation on thousands of subjects, Geetha recital.
Daily deliberation.
Y.S.G.’s life of orderliness.
Here is my salutation, congratulation.
Gunda at the peak of devotion and earnestness.
Gundappa to friends, Gunda to kids.
Gundappa to elders, Gunda to youngsters.
It is a beautiful parrot, mine of experience.
A rare 1Chintamani of 2Chintamani.
Chaitanya merged into Brahmachaitanya.
Unique, precious, blessed, revered.
Sri Kavikinkara you are nonegoist.
Here is my salutation to you; salutation.
C.M. Channabasavaiah, M.Sc.,
Sri Sarana Sadana,
6th Cross, Jayachamarajendra Extension,
CHITRADURGA-577 501.
Ripe mind, speech, body,
Filled with sensibility and lofty ideal
Handful of skeletal frame
With little bit of flesh and blood,
Covered with skin
Is his great body !
With turban and coat on
And feet with shoes on
Is his outward figure.
But, . . . . . . .
Inside is multifacetted.
Poet, orator, teacher, singer,
Organizer, leader.
And ? Devotee !.....A liberated soul.
Small figure, but
Fame reached upto Delhi.
Fruit concealed under leaves
But not concealed for parrots.
1Thirteen crore was going on
In his coat pocket every minute.
A saint without oblivion,
Knowledge at its pinnacle.
Speech like the Radiance of Shiva with
Many new anecdotes.
He is a friend.
Friend of all.
1 Even while walking with coat on, Sri Y.S.G. was performing Taraka Nama Japa with his right hand and rosary in his coat pocket
Friend of the old.
Friend of the young.
Hard determination,
Ascetic power. Result ?
Sahitya Koota the
Union of souls.
Warm treatment with dedication and earnestness
Is the foundation for development.
New, strange, unique.
Wonder, wonder, only wonder.
Cogitation on thousands of subjects, Geetha recital.
Daily deliberation.
Y.S.G.’s life of orderliness.
Here is my salutation, congratulation.
Gunda at the peak of devotion and earnestness.
Gundappa to friends, Gunda to kids.
Gundappa to elders, Gunda to youngsters.
It is a beautiful parrot, mine of experience.
A rare 1Chintamani of 2Chintamani.
Chaitanya merged into Brahmachaitanya.
Unique, precious, blessed, revered.
Sri Kavikinkara you are nonegoist.
Here is my salutation to you; salutation.
C.M. Channabasavaiah, M.Sc.,
Sri Sarana Sadana,
6th Cross, Jayachamarajendra Extension,
CHITRADURGA-577 501.
ಬುಧವಾರ, ಏಪ್ರಿಲ್ 16, 2008
ysg ondu chitrana mattu bidi hoogalu
YSG, Sri Y.S. Gundappa (1905-1998) was a teacher and a kannada poet,dramatist and a devotee of Sri Brahmachaithanya Maharaj. As a teacher he was awarded by the President of India, Dr.S. Radhakrishnan, as one of the best teachers, in the year 1963.
He wrote many poems on all subjects, mostly devotional. He wrote dramas mainly for Children.
He was an active participant in many cultural and literary organisations.
He started in the year 1948, an organisation known as "Sahitya Koota" in Chintamani, which was dedicated for literary activities. Every saturday a pragramme was conducted with either a speech or singing by different people. Thus, with out any break so far the saturday programmes have crossed 2650 weeks. Though Sri Y.S.Gundappa has physically left this world, Sahitya Koota is continuing with active participation of his disciples with his spirit behind them.
He wrote many poems on all subjects, mostly devotional. He wrote dramas mainly for Children.
He was an active participant in many cultural and literary organisations.
He started in the year 1948, an organisation known as "Sahitya Koota" in Chintamani, which was dedicated for literary activities. Every saturday a pragramme was conducted with either a speech or singing by different people. Thus, with out any break so far the saturday programmes have crossed 2650 weeks. Though Sri Y.S.Gundappa has physically left this world, Sahitya Koota is continuing with active participation of his disciples with his spirit behind them.
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