Aathichoodi is a collection of single-line quotations

written and organized in alphabetical order by the great

Thamizh poetess Avvaiyaar who lived in the 1st century
CE. The beauty is that it is organized in such a way
that each verse is in the order of the vowels (Uyir
Ezhuthu), consonants (Mei Ezhuthu) of the Tamil alphabets
and the combinant alphabets (Uyir Mei Ezhuthu) and their
simplicity and the greatness of the values they inculcate
in such curtness. It is a collection of 109 maxims .'Aathi
chudi' means a garland of Aathi flowers. Aathi in Tamil
refers to a mountain orchid tree called Bauhinia in English.
It is believed Lord Shiva loves to be adorned with
garland of Aathi flowers. Aathi chudi is an ethical code.
It is a treatise on righteous living.

Aathichoodi is also known as "The Golden Alphabet
of the Tamils" (Asiatic Researches,vii,p. 350). The simplicity
of these verses are not only easy to comprehend but also
easy to remember. Very easy for learning kids, that they
remember through out their life.

The sacred lines include "Look out of the window,
see your life reflected in the bushes and the trees and
the glossy meadows and live", "You are worth more than
what you do, but less than what you think", "What you
know is where you'll go", "There's always going to be an
uphill battle, that sometimes you are going to have to
lose", "To the well-organized mind, death is but the next
great adventure", "A cosmopolitan spirit will see you
through", "Life is for giving, not for living" and most
famous, "A life is never wasted, even the smallest deeds
make every life worthwhile" and other expressions intended
to address problems faced day to day. Like Thirukural
Aathi chudi is also an ethical and immortal pertinent
treatise even today.

Aathichudi stands as a crown for the works of
Avvaiyar. Its simplicity and the moral values it inculcates
has a wide acceptance among people. It is so simple that
is even taught to kids just out of kindergarten, and even
used by people as quotes during their ordinary day to
day talks or speeches.



. @
@@

.


_
_ Q
@
@ _, @
** _ ,

@ @@
@
@.



** _

@



@

1 _
o 1.1
o 1.2
2 Q
3 @
o 3.1 @
o 3.2 @
o 3.3 @
o 3.4 @
o 3.5 @
o 3.6 @
o 3.7 @
o 3.8 @
4
5 _
6 Q
7 Q / Q



(Avvaiyaar):
Avvaiyaar was one of the most famous and important
female poets of the Tamil canon. Avvaiyaar was also the
author of Konral Venthom, a celebrated work of aphorism
as like the Aathichoodi. By profession she was a
minstrel. She had a shining forehead, she painted her eye-
lids black and on her waist she wore a jewelled girdle.
She spent the larger part of her life at the court of
the chief of Thankadur, (modern Dharmapuram in Salem
district, Tamil Nadu) named Athiyaman Anchi, the head of
the tribe of Malavar. That chief presented to her the
sweet fruit of the nelli tree, which was reputed to
prolong life. He despatched her as an ambassador to
Thondiman, the ruler of Kanchi. She attended the sacrifice
performed by the Chola king. Peru-nar Killi and addressed
the Tamil monarchs Urgaperu Valthy, Peru-nar-Killi, and the
Chera king Mavenko, who once sat together. She exhorted
them to do good which would save them from the perils
of the future.(Puram.,89,390,94,95,235,367).


She has been assigned the period A.D.100-
130(Kanakasabhai, The Tamils 1800 years Ago,p. 203) but
this is conjectural and untenable because, if she was the
contemporary of Thondaiman which was one of the titles
borne by the Thirayan of Kanchi during the infancy
Karikala Chola(4th century A.D.) and of Peru-nar Killi who
was 4th in descent from Karikala Chola, then she will
have to be placed in the 5th century A.D. allowing 25th
years for each of the predecessors of Peru-nar.Killi. She
must have, if this is admitted, been sent as an
ambassador to one of the successor of Karikala who
probably bore the title of Thondaiman and not to the
Thirayan himself.
Avvaiyar's one among many public services was to
prevent a war between the Kings Adiyaman and Thondiaman.
The latter was very proud of his armory and
demonstrated it with pride to the saint hoping she would
report its readiness to her friend Adiyaman. Avvaiyar, with
her impish humor, praised him soundly. "Oh Thondiaman how
different indeed are your clean and shiny weapons from
those of Adiyaman, always stained with blood and under
repair."

The young king was no fool and understood she had
just warned him he was going to take on a battle-
hardened veteran with only his inexperience and battle
lust. War was off. The happy saint sang, "War is like
plunging into a river with a grinding stone to help you
float. The very rains pour for the sake of the man who
prevents women from losing husbands and sons in senseless
war."














Q / Q
n


















-_ _ -
_ -_ - Q
- - -.

@:
1. @Q
Learn to love virtue.
@ @Q!!
Desire doing righteous deeds
@() .
j
j
2.
Gain control over anger
.
y!!
jj
j3.
Help others in whatever ways you can
@
@ !!
Don't forget Charity.
Don't hestitate to offer help when requested for
@ @
@.
4.
Don't prevent philanthropy.
@ @ @ @ !!
Never stop others from providing charity
@, @,
@


5.
Never proclaim/boast about what you have
@ Q/
@ y /
@ !!
Don't betray confidence.
@


6.
Never forsake motivation.
(/
_)
Never give up hope and confidence
@
!!
7.
Never despise learning
,
Never despise learning on mathematical science and
literature
@ ;
,
@ .


8.
Don't freeload.
( - ) ()
Accepting alms (begging) is despicable
.
.


9. @
Feed the hungry and then feast.
@ @
Share food with the needy before you eat
@
@.
10. QQ
Emulate the great.
@ .
@, @
@ .
Act virtuously

@.


11.
Discern the good and learn.
@.
Never give up learning
@ .
Learning is a life long process



12.
Speak no envy.
!!
Never speak with jealousy and envy
@_ @ .
13. @
Don't shortchange.
.
Never cheat on selling grains (Food)
Always sell items to the right quantity for the
price
,
.


@
14. .
Don't flip-flop.

Say what you see - Don't exaggerate
( )
.






15. .
Bend to befriend.
@
@
Keep the bonds around you intact.
''
@ @
Q
_
@.
"" , @

. _
@ Q
@.


16. @.
Shower regularly.
!!
Prefer washing yourself with gently cold water
@.


17. .
Sweeten your speech.

Make others happy while you speak.
!!


18. @ .
Judiciously space your home.
@
!!
Never build house exceeding your need
.
@ .
@ .


19. .
Befriend the best.

@ @@ Q
Know if more harmony then befriend.
@@ Q _ @
@ Q !!
20. .
Protect your parents.
!!
Q

Love and care your parents


21. .
Don't forget gratitude.
@ !
Always be grateful of the help offered to you
@ @
.


22. @ .
Husbandry has its season.
y/y
() !
Never procrastinate without reason.
y
@.
23. .
Don't land-grab.
@ @
@
@ Q (
@ )
Do not occupy others land illegitimately for your
livehood.
@
!


24. Q .
Desist demeaning deeds.
!

.
Never indulge in actions that display bad conduct


25. .
Never play with the snake
!!!
Q .
26. .
Cotton bed better for comfort.
@
!
Sleep on silk cotton bed



27. .
Never sugar-coat words.
@
!
Never speak deceivingly
( Q,)



28. .
Detest the disorderly.

Never do bad things
!

29. .
Learn when young.
@ !!
@ @
(y,
y) .


30. .
Cherish charity.
@
Never forget to do charity
@
!!


31. .
Over sleeping is obnoxious

Dont sleep for long duration


@
32.
Constant anger is corrosive.
y .
Never hurt someone with your words
@ @


33.
Saving lives superior to fasting.

Stand by your vows
@

@
.

34.
Make wealth beneficial.
@ @ @
.
@ @


35.
Distance from the wicked.
Q @
Remove vulgar activites


36.
Keep all that are useful.
@!
If character is lost, everything is lost.

().


37.
Don't forsake friends
@ Q @ !
@ Q



38. @
Abandon animosity.
@ @
.
Never do action that may create problem(s) to
others


39. _
Learn from the learned.
_ !
Listen to good advices/techniques from knowledgable/
experienced person
@
_

f
40.
Don't hide knowledge.
@
Q @Q.
Do not conceal knowledge about handicrafts (art/
making).
y
!
f
41. @
Don't swindle.
@ @@ !
Never rob
@.


42.
Ban all illegal games.
@ @@!
Leave playing the criminal games



43.
Don't vilify.
!
Remove difficulties in life
@


@
44.
Honor your Lands Constitution.
_ !!
@. (
= , )
Follow the government rules
@

45. @
Associate with the noble.
@!!
Be with scholars
@
@.
@


46.
Stop being paradoxical.
!
Never say lie as truth

47.
Remember to be righteous.
Q
.
Nerver forget the goodness which cause the fame
Q
!


48.
Don't hurt others feelings.
@ _ Q
!
Never use the word that hurts others
_



49. @
Don't gamble.
@ @ !
Never show interest on gambling
@ @.
50. @
Action with perfection.
_
!!
What ever is being done, let it be with perfection
y @


51.
Seek out good friends.
@ !
Choose your friends wisely
@


52.
Avoid being insulted.
y
!
Never be disliked by wise person because of
uselessness
''

53. Q
Don't show fatigue in conversation.
@ Q
!
Better remain being silent than to be thought a
fool in the conversation.
@ _


54.
Don't be a lazybones.
y
!
_ .


@
55.
Be trustworthy

(,) Q

' /
/' !

56. @Q
Be kind to the unfortunate.
@ .
@ @!!!


57. @
Serve the protector.
Q @ Q
!!
Serve God
@ @


58.
Don't sin.
@.
Do not commit sins
!!


59.
Don't attract suffering.
@.
_ y @
@ @
Dont allow sadness to occupy you.
!!


60.
Deliberate every action.
y
!!
Analyse, research and then act.
@ _ _
Q
Q
y .

61.
Don't defame the divine.

Don't disregard God
Q .
62.
Adopt to the nation's livelihood
@ @
!
Live in unison with your countrymen.
@



63.
Don't listen to the designing.
@ !
@ .
Dont believe in a hustler/girl's words as said.
.


64.
Never forget your past glory.
_, Q, Q
_
Dont forget antiquity
.


65.
Don't compete if sure of defeat.
.
__
Know when to give up
@
_y .


@
66.
Adhere to the beneficial.


Continue to do good deeds
Q y
Q





67.
Do nationally agreeables.
@

Let your acts align with what your country
approves of

.


68.
Never compromise on your principles
@

Don't depart from good standing.
@
.


69.
Don't jump into a watery grave.

Do not play in water (river, lake, dam)
.
70.
Don't over snack.
() @
.
Do not feed on items that may attract disease/
illness
( ) Q @
!


71.
Read variety of materials.
y
Always have the desire to learn


72.
Grow your own staple.
@!
Harvest paddy grain

@ .
.


73.
Be honest

Exhibit good manners always.



74.
Don't involve in destruction.
@

Never do anything that may hurt (self & others)
@



75. Q
Don't dabble in sleaze.

Do not use abusive words
.


76.
Avoid unhealthy lifestyle.
y @
Do not attract disease
.


@
77.
Speak no pfofanity / obscenity / invective.

@
,@
.


78. @
Keep away from the vicious.
Q
.
Do not play with snakes


79.
Watch out for self incrimination.

y .
@ @ @



80. @
Follow path of honor.
@y
Your acts should make others feel proud of you


81. Q
Protect your benefactor.
/Q

Try to acknowledge those who appreciate you
Q y


82. @y
Cultivate the land and feed.
.

Cultivate and feed.
@ @


83.
Seek help from the old and wise.


Q ,
Q @
@.

84.
Eradicate Ignorance




85.
Don't comply with idiots.
y@/
@ .
Do not mingle with naivete
@


86. @
Protect and enhance your wealth.

@( ) Q
.
@y, y
@ @.


87. Q
Don't encourage war.
Q
@ @
@
Q
.

@
88. @
Don't vacillate.

Never get disturbed



89.
Don't accomodate your enemy.

Never let your enemy to hurt and succeed you
Q
@.


90.
Don't over dramatize.
@ y @
/
Never exaggerate things


91. @
Don't be a glutton.
@.
Never eat in excess


92. __
Don't join an unjust fight.
/ _

Never be the one who starts a fight



93. @
Don't agree with the stubborn.
_@
Do not have relationship with aggressive people
@


94.
Stick with your exemplary wife.
@ @

Never cheat on your wife
@ y
@ .


95.
Listen to men of quality.
_

Follow the words of scholars


96.
Dissociate from the streetwalker / strumpet.
@
Do not have relationship with a harlot/trollop/tramp
Q
97.
Speak with clarity.
@ @

Be articulate




98. _
Gain control over your urges.
@
@
Hate any desire for lust.



@
99.
Don't self praise.
Q
Never praise your talents
Q



100. _
Don't gossip or spread rumor.
@ /
_
Never be the reason for argument
_ @
y @
.





101. @Q
Long to learn.

Show interest and acquire skills.
@ @Q
@ .


102. @
Work for a peaceful life.
y
_ _
@.


103. @
Lead exemplary life.
/
.
Lead the life with good qualities
@


104. @
Live amicably.
@

When in Rome, Live Like the Romans Do
@



105.
Don't be harsh with words and deeds.
@

Never utter words that would hurt others
_ @ .


106.
Don't premeditate harm.
@
Never commit a sin deliberately
@



107.
Be an early-riser.
@
Wake up before sunrise

_ Q.


108.
Never join your enemy.
/
Do not trust your enemies


109.
Let your argument never be biased.
@ !!
Be impartial in judgement.
@Q
@y .








:


Avvaiyaar - The wise amongst the wisest:

"Avvaiyar", the venerated name that reverberates throughout
Tamil Literature The name and the works of Avvaiyar have
permeated in the minds of the Tamil people at all ages. Avvaiyar is
seen as an icon representing the female poets in Tamil literature
because Avvaiyar comes first when the question of naming the female
poets in Tamil literature arises. This post and the subsequent posts
are about this magnificent, magnanimous, literary eloquent, venerated
and a motherly person - Avvaiyar, who is respected by people in
all walks of life.


Avvaiyar is envisioned by many as one person who was a
female ascetic and a wise crone. But, in reality, there were more
than one with the name Avvaiyar. Abithana Chintamani identifies that
there were 3 female poets who had the name Avvaiyar. The first
one lived during the Sangam age, over 2000 years ago. The second
one during the period of Kambar and Ottakoothar (11th and 12th).
The third during the 14th century. Some researchers even say that
there were at least 7 persons with the name Avvaiyar. One such
reference to another Avvaiyar is during the time of Sage/Siddhar
Agasthiar, where it says that Avvaiyar recommended another Siddhar
Theraiyar - author of Padhartha Guna Chinthamani - to become the
disciple of Agasthiar. The time of Agasthiar was about 5200 BC to
4000 BC.



Though there were many Avvaiyars in different periods of
time, their works exhibit the nature of the poets - simplicity,
austerity and truth.


Avvaiyars' works are being recited and researched by students
right from kindergarten to doctorates. Their works include Aathichudi,
Kondrai Vaendhan, Nall vazhi, Moodhurai, Vinayagar Agaval, some
songs in Puranaanooru, Aganaanooru. Many songs are just collections
of single songs sung over various periods of time and they don't
fall under a group or common title. These works have stood the
test of time and still inculcate the moral values, virtues and stand
as a beacon to lead a good life.


There are lot of interesting legends and songs that support
those legends about Avvaiyar that we are going to see in the
upcoming posts. I'll try to provide information on which Avvaiyar
sangs those songs, in cases where I could not find such information,
we will just enjoy those legends, the meaning and the literary
eloquence those songs convey. For simplicity, here-in-after we will
refer Avvaiyar as a single person, though we know that there were
more than one Avvaiyar.






Many verses, single lines from Avvaiyar's songs are quoted even
today as a moral to represent virtue, humility and truth. For
example, her words

" Q, Q"
"Katradhu Kai Mann Alavu, Kalladhadhu Ulagalavu"

meaning, "What we have learned, is like a handful of earth; What
we have yet to learn, is like the whole world" is exhibited in NASA


Avvaiyar was very much respected by the Kings and Emperors
of South India, even the Emperors of the three great kingdoms -
Chera, Chola and the Pandya - had high regard for Avvaiyar.
Avvaiyar is venerated so much in Tamil Nadu, that she is even
worshipped as a God. People have even built a temple for her. In
Thovalai Taluk of Kanyakumari district, there is an old temple that
was built during the 11th century for Avvaiyar. The deity is called
Avvaiyar amman. Women in that locality, prepare kolukattai (a
steamed cake made out of rice flour) and offer it to Avvaiyar
amman during the Tamil month of Aadi. Women worship Avvaiyar
amman to get good husband and for betterment of the standard of
living.

This is a very strong proof, that Tamil Nadu held Avvaiyar,
and women in general, in high respect. In the upcoming posts, we
will explore more about these legendary Avvaiyars and their works
that makes us proud of having such great people in our ancestry.
The first thing that everyone remembers on hearing the name
Avvaiyar is Aathichudi. Aathichudi is said to have been written by
the later Avvaiyar. Aathichudi stands as a crown for tha works of
Avvaiyar. Its simplicity and the moral values it inculcates has a
wide acceptance among people. It is so simple that is even taught
to kids just out of kindergarten, and even used by people as
quotes during their ordinary day to day talks or speeches.


Aathichudi has 109 verses explaining the morals. The beauty is
that it is organized in such a way that each verse is in the order
of the vowels (Uyir Ezhuthu), consonants (Mei Ezhuthu) of the Tamil
alphabets and the combinant alphabets (Uyir Mei Ezhuthu).


_Q
Aram seyya virumbu
Desire doing righteous deeds

@@
Aaruvadhu Sinam
Anger is to be controlled

@
Iyalvadhu Karavael
Help others in whatever ways you can

@
Eevadhu Vilakkael
Never prevent others from providing charity

@
Udaiyadhu Vilambael
Never proclaim/boast what you have

@
Ookamadhu Kaividael
Never give up the confidence and hope

@@
Enn Ezhuthu Egazhael
Never despise learning

@
Yaerpadhu Igazhchi
Accepting alms (begging) is despicable

_
Ayyamittu Unn
Share your food with the needy, before you eat

Q @
Oppuravu Ozhugu
Act virtuously

@@
Odhuvadhu Ozhiyael
Never stop learning


Ouviyyam Paesael
Never gossip about others

_
Akkam Surukael
Never cheat on quantity of items you sell

The name Aathichudi is because of the head verse is in praise
of Lord Shiva and Lord Ganapathy, who is adorned with the Aathi
flowers.


@ .

Aathichudi Amarndha Devanai
Yaethi Yaethi thozuvom Yaamae

meaning, we will praise the The God (Lord Vinayaka) who sits in
the lap of the Lord (Lord Shiva) who wears the Aathi flowers


The simplicity of these verses are not only easy to
comprehend but also easy to remember. Very easy for learning kids,
that they remember through out their life.



Another work, the Kondrai vendhan, is also by the later
Avvaiyar, which is similar to the Aathichudi in many respects. The
same one-liner style, along with the order of the alphabets makes it
easy to read and remember too. This is praise of Lord Shiva, who
is adorned with the Kondrai flowers, and Lord Vinayaka. Usually all
Tamil poems being with a song that is in praise of the poet's
favourite God. This verse is called the Kadavul Vaazhthu.



Now, the verses from Kondrai Vendhan.



@ @

Kondrai Vendhan Selvan Adiyinai
Endrum Yaethi Thozhuvom Yaamae

We will ever worship and praise the Son (Lord Vinayaka) of the
Lord (Lord Shiva) who wears the Kondrai flowers.


g Q _
Annaiyum Pidhavum Munnari Dheivam
The mother and the father are the Gods to be realised first

Q @
Aalayam Sendridal Saalavum Nandru
It is good and noble to worship the God in temples

@ @
Illaram Alladhu Nallaram Andru
It is ignoble to not follow a peaceful marriage


Eeyaar Thaetai Theeyaar Kollvar
The belongings of the miserly will be plundered by the evil-minded

_ _
Undi Surungudhal Pendirukku Azhagu
Reducing the quantity of food intake, by women is good for them
_ _ _
Oorudan Pagaikkin Verudan Kedum
Hostility with the society/country will destroy everything one has right
from the root

@@
Ennum Ezhuthum Kannena Thagum
Education and knowledge is like the eye for everyone

_ _@
Yaeva Makkal Moova Marundhu
Children who do the right things without the parents' guidance are like
curative medicine

Q
Aiyyam Puginum Seivana Sei
Even under impecuniousness do your duties

_ @ _
Oruvanai Pattri Oragathu Iru
Marry one and be loyal the spouse

@
Odhalin Nandrae Vedhiyarkku Ozhukkam
Discipline is more important to a priest than uttering the sacred hymns

Q
Auviyam Pesudhal Aakkathirkku Azhivu
Gossiping is destructive to one's fame

_ _
Akkamum Kaasum Sikkena Thaedu
Earn cultivation lands and the money soon in your life


The beauty of these verses are their simplicity and the
greatness of the values they inculcate in such curtness. Moreover,
all of these are easy to remember as they have been composed in
the order of the Tamil Alphabets, that one can easily related to
these verses based on the alphabets.

Children and kids find it very easy to take it by heart, also
explaining these to them does not take much effort as they are
easily understood.

I will try to post the meaning of the other verses too in the
upcoming posts. The complete verses can be downloaded here.

There are more fascinating songs by Avvaiyar that served as
technological insights to great construction feats like the
Brahadeeshwara Temple at Thanjavur.


The next of the famous works of Avvaiyar come Moodhurai and
Nall Vazhi, these were the works of the later Avvaiyars. The
beauty of these two works the lines in the verses are still being
used as a quote by people even today. Though people don't
remember full verses, but the lines in those verses stand as a
testimony to truth and values, for example, "Kettalum Maen makkal
maen makkalae" meaning "People who are noble will never lose their
nobility even during tough times/penury". In this post, we will see
the verses from Moodhurai.
As with most Tamil poems, the first song/verse will be in
praise of the God, usually Lord Vinayakar; Moodhurai and Nall Vazhi
begin with a song that is in praise of Lord Vinayakar

_
@@ __
@ _ @


Vaakundaam Nalla Manamundaam Maamalaraal
Nokkundaam Meni Nudangaadhu Pookkondu
Thuppaar Thirumeni Thumbikkaiyaan Paadham
Thappaamal Saarvaar Thamakku

meaning, People who worship the elephant trunked God, Lord Ganesh,
with flowers will have good command of words and knowledge, good
heart and mind, the blessings of the Goddess of wealth and
prosperisty, Goddess Lakshmi and good health.

Vaakundaam - Vaaku + Undaam - Word, Knowledge
Nalla Manamundaam - Good Heart, Mind
Maamalaraal - Goddess Lakshmi
Nokku Undaam - Sight, Blessings
Meni - Body
Nudangaadhu - Will not become weak or have ailments
Pookondu - With flowers
Thuppaar Thirumeni - The body of Lord Ganesh which is bright in colour
Thumbikkaiyaan - Lord Ganesh - Thumbikkai - elephant's trunk
Paadham - Feet
Thappaamal Saarvar - People who worship Lord Ganesh's feet without fail
Thamakku - A pronoun referring the people who worship Lord Ganesh

We would have come across the next two song, in one of the
earlier posts however, it is worth repeating them here, because of
the moral they inculcate about the good deeds

_
@ _ @
_
_

Nandri Oruvarrkku Seidhakkaal Annandri
Endru Tharungol Ena Vendaa Nindru
Thalaraa Valar Thengu Thaal Unda Neerai
Thalaiyaalae Thaan Tharudhalaal

meaning, deeds done in time of need, however small, without
expecting a favour in return, will pay off someday like the coconut
tree that gives benefit carrying on its head, though you pour the
water to its feet.

Nandri - Good deeds, gratitude
Oruvarukku - for someone
Seidhakkaal - Act done
Endru - When
Tharungol - Benefit, pay in return
nindru thalaraa valar thengu - The coconut tree (thengu) that stands tall
and steady
Thaal - Feet
Unda - Drank, intake
Neerai - Water
Thalaiyalae - On top of the head
Tharudhalaal - provide

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Nellukku Iraitha Neer Vaaikaal Vazhiyodi
Pullukkum Aangae Posiyumaam Thollulagil
Nallaar Oruvar Ularael Avarporuttu
Ellarrkkum Peiyyum Mazhai

meaning, The water that is pumped to irrigate paddy also irrigates
the weeds and grass. Likewise, just for the one good person on
earth, rain falls for the benefit for everyone on earth. Good deeds
are so powerful that even for good deeds done by a few, everyone
in this world gets benefitted.

Nellukku - (possesive case of) Nell - Paddy
Iraitha - Poured, Irrigated
Neer - Water
Vaaikaal - Stream, a shallow passage for water to flow
Vazhi - Path
Odi - Run
Pullukkum - For the grass (Pull), in this context, weed
Aangae - There
Posiyumaam - Flow, Drip
Tholl Ulagil - Old (Tholl) Earth - (Ulagu)
Nallaar - Good persons
Oruvar - (denoting count of persons) One
Ularael - Ula - Exist ; in conjunction with Oruvar - if one such
person exists
Avar Poruttu - Avar: Them, respected tone of a single person; Poruttu -
For a particular purpose
Ellarkkum - For all (Ellar)
Peyyum Mazhai - pour down, used in conjunction with rain (Mazhai)

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Attaalum Paal Suvaiyil Kundraadhu Thalavalai
Nataalum Nanballaar Nanbu Allar
Kettaalum Maenmakkal Maenmakkalae Sangu
Sutaalum Venmai Tharum

meaning, Certain things done in this world don't change even if the
circumstances change. Like milk that still tastes good, even after
boiling it in fire. People who are not friends will never be friends
even if they are placed nearby each other. People who are noble
and magnanimous will never lose their magnanimity even in times of
adversity. Likewise the conch shell will be white inside, even if
charred by hot fire

Attaalum - Boil
Paal - Milk
Suvai - Taste
Kundraadhu - Not deteriorate
Nataalum - Place nearby
Nanbu - Friendship; Allaar - Negation
Kettaalum - Fall into adversity, worsen in situation
Maenmakkal - Magnanimous People
Sangu - Conch
Suttalum - Burn
Venmai - Whiteness

Some of Avvaiyar's songs strongly support the concept of
destiny and fate. In the next two songs, Avvaiyar's point that
things won't happen until time is ripe and things destined to happen
will happen


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Aduthu Muyandraalum Aagu Naalandri
Edutha Karumangal Aaga Thodutha
Uruvathaal Neenda Uyarmarangal Ellaam
Paruvathaal Andri Pazhaa.

meaning, even if you attempt again and again, things that should
happen only a specified time will not happen until the time is ripe,
like the trees that stand tall, though they are big in size, will not
bear fruit until it is the right time.

Aduthu Muyandraalum - Even if tried again and again
Aagu naal - Ripe time/Destined day
Edutha Karumangal - Tasks taken
Thodutha uruvathaal - In their grown appearance
Neenda uyar marangal - the tall and lengthy trees
Paruvathaal - Season
Andri Pazhaa - Will not bear fruit until that time



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Ezhuthiyavaarae Kaan Irangum Madanenjae
Karudhiya Vaaraamo Karumam Karudhippoi
Karpagathai Saernthorkku Kaanjirangaai Eendhael
Murpavathil Seidha Vinai

meaning, Hey you wailing heart. Things will happen the way they are
destined to happen. Will they happen the way you imagine them to
happen? Even if you reach the Karpaga tree - (the mythological tree
that gives you anything when you are under it) - and if it gives
the Ettikaai (Poisonous fruit), then it is what it has been destined
for you from your past actions.

Ezhuthiya - Written
Kaan - See
Irangum - Wailing, Despondent
Mada Nenjae - Foolish Heart/Mind
Karudhiyavaaru - Imagined
Aamo - Happen
Karumam - Act, Result
Karpagam - Mythological tree that gives anything wished for
Saernthu - Reach
Kaanjirankaai - Ettikaai (Strychnos Nuxvomica)
Murpavam - Past life
Seidha - Done
Vinai - Actions/Sin


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Kaana Mayilaada Kandirundha Vaankozhi
Thaanum Adhuvaaga Paavithu Thaanum Thann
Polla Siragai Virithu Aadinaar Polumae
Kallaadhaan Katra Kavi

meaning, The turkey that saw a peacock dancing with its feathers
spreadout. On seeing that the turkey started spreading out its
feathers imitating the peacock and started dancing. This can be
compared to a poem being learnt by a fool

Kaana - Forest
Mayil - Peacock
Aada - Dance
Vaankozhi - Turkey
Thaanum Adhuvaaga Paavithu - Considering it as peacock
Thaanum Thann - Pronoun referring the turkey
Polla Siragu - Incomplete or Insufficient feathers
Virithu - Spread
Aadinaal - Dance
Kalladhaan - Illiterate
Katra Kavi - learned poem




The next song illustrates the prominence for education and
knowledge. The most popular phrase "Katrorukku Sendra Idam Ellam
Sirappu" which means "The learned and scholarly will be praised
wherever they go" is from this song



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Mannanum Maasara Kattronum Seerthookin
Mannanil Katron Sirappudaiyan Mannanukku
Thann Desam Allaal Sirappillai Katrorukku
Sendra Idam Ellam Sirappu

meaning, if you compare a King and a Scholar, a Scholar has more
prominence that the King. The King is popular and prominent only in
his kingdom and outside of his kingdom, he is not; but a scholar is
popular and prominent at all places wherever he goes

Mannan - King
Maasara Katron - Scholar
Seerthookin - Compare
Sirappudaiyan - Prominent, Popular, Better
Thann - His
Desam - Country
Sendra Idam - Places gone


Not only are the songs in Moodhurai are simple to understand,
the moral values they inculcate are great and are still being used
by parents and elders to educate their children about the moral
values the Tamil Civilization had thousands of years ago.

Nall Vazhi, meaning Good way to lead life, is another great work
by Avvaiyar that teems with morals. Like Moodhurai, Nall Vazhi also
starts with the praise of Lord Ganesh.


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Paalum Theli Thaenum Paagum Paruppum Ivai
Naalum Kalandhu Unakku Naan Tharuvaen Kolam Sei
Thunga Kari Mugathu Thoomaniyae Nee Enakku
Sanga Thamizh Moondrum Thaa


meaning, I will offer you with milk, pure honey, jaggery and cereals.
Bless me and bestow me, the God with the Elephant face. Bless me
with all the three forms of Tamil.






The next song exhibits that Avvaiyar was a person who was
against caste discrimination.


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Saadhi Irandozhiya Verillai Saatrungaal
Needhi Vazhuvaa Nerimuraiyin Maedhaniyil
Ittar Periyor Idadhaar Izhikulathor
Pattaangil Ulla Padi


meaning, If people should be classified based on caste, the truth is
to say that there are only two such classfications. The one who
does not go off the path of ethical values, ethical behaviour,
generosity called as Noble (Periyor) and the ones that dont -
Ignoble (Izhikulathor). Other than than there are no other castes.









The next song explains the importance of agriculture


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Aatram Karaiyin Maramum Arasariya
Veetrirundha Vaazhvum Veezhum Yaetram
Uzhuthundu Vaazhvadharkku Oppillai Kandeer
Pazhuthundu Vaeror Panikku


meaning, the tree at the river banks and the luxurious life with the
king/ruler knowing it, will fall. There is no comparison to living a
life by farming crops, the other jobs and life are not determinate
and unstable.










The next song is about Karma, one has to suffer for the
deeds that one does earlier


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Seitheevinai Irukka Dheivathai Nondhakkaal
Yeitha Varumo Irunidhiyam Vaiyathu
Arumpaavam Ena Arindhu Andridaarkku Indru
Verumpaanai Pongumo Mael


meaning, What is the use of cursing God, when the karma of your
sins/bad deeds standing in front. Will such a curse bring fortune
and wealth? Without realising that by helping the needy, the sins
will go away. Like the empty pot that wont boil and overflow, will
it help those who are empty of good deeds to clear away their
sins?


The cycle of Karma is that you will have to help the people
around you rather than being miserly or perverse.



The next song is for those greedy for wealth and those who
dont spend what they have earned even for their own necessities


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Paadu Pattu Thaedi Panathai Pudhaithu Vaitha
Kaeduketta Maanidarae Kaelungal Kooduvittingu
Aavithaan Poyinapin Yaarae Anubavippaar
Paavigaal Andha Panam


meaning, Oh you people who toil to earn money and then safeguard
it by burying (hiding) it without even using even for necessities.
Who will be going to enjoy all your hard earned money once the
soul leaves your body, you sinners.


Quite a strong message, people toil, fritter away their lives to
earn a wealth of money but dont have the heart to spend the
money. Avvaiyar asks, what is the use of earning such money that
you are not willing to spend even for your necessities, let alone
helping others.



People these days are quite using to spending a lot using their
credit cards, or rather overspending more than what they earn. The
song above is for people who dont spend and the next song is for
people who spend lavishly more than their earning capacity. Both are
dangerous and not recommended.


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Aana Mudhalil Adhigam Selavaanaal
Maanamazhindhu Madhikettu Pona Dhisai
Ellarakkum Kallanai Ezhupirappum Theeyanaai
Nallaarkkum Pollaanaam Naadu


meaning, if one spends more than his capital/income, then he will
have to lose his dignity, his sense, knowledge. He will treated as a
thief in whatever direction he goes. And in every birth, he will be
treated a bad guy without any respect.


The next song illustrates the effect food and hunger have over
humans

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Maanam Kulam Kalvi Vanmai Arivudaiamai
Dhaanam Thavam Uyarchi Thaalaanmai Thaenin
Kasivandha Solliyarmael Kaamurudhal Paththum
Pasivandhida Parandhu Pom


meaning, The ten characteristics of humans would be ignored when a
man is hungry. Those 10 are Maanam - Dignity, Kulam - Class in
the Society, Kalvi - Education, Vanmai - Strength, Arivudaimai -
Knowledge, Dhaanam - Benevolence, Dhavam - Penance, Uyarchi - Rank,
Thalanmai - Generosity, Kamurudhal - Romance. Thaenin Kasivandha
Solliyarmael Kaamurudhal - Romance with women uttering out words
that are sweet as honey


The overall meaning of the song is that If hunger strikes a
human, then all the 10 characteristics mentioned above would go
away from him/her until his hunger is over. None of the above in
the list takes priority until the stomach is filled up.


The last song in this post is about politeness. But it also
gives insights to into the simple science that was used to build the
architectural wonders such as the Brihadeeshwarar Temple at
Thanjavur. Let's see the meaning of the song



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Vettenavai Methenavai Vellavaam Vaezhathil
Patturuvum Kol Panjil Paayaadhu Nettiruppu
Paaraikku Nekku Vidaa Paarai Pasumarathin
Vaerukku Nekku Vidum


meaning, Hard and rough things will never win over soft things. A
spear that thrusts through the body of an elephant will never be
able to thrust up into cotton. Likewise a rock that does not give in
even for the hardest iron crowbars, will give in for the tender
roots of a tree.


This song above illustrates the need for people to polite as it
yields good results and also it even helps achieving the almost
impossible. Apart from the moral, this song also provides some
scientific insights into how the people who built such magnificent
temples were able to cut out huge rocks from the mountains without
the aid of modern instruments 1000 years ago. First they would
select the rock that needs to be cut out, then they chisel out
small holes along the line the rock has to be cut, then they drive
in the roots of trees and pour water into it. As a result, the
root would expand as it soaks and then rock would be cut out
with perfect precision. This is how people used to cut out rocks
from mountains - simple and effective way!


I have covered only a few songs, of Moodhurai and Nall Vazhi,
but the others are indeed quite valuable. In the upcoming posts, we
will see more interesting incidents and legends about Avvaiyar.

Avvaiyar is known for her simplicity, but at times, there were
situations where some poets, especially Kambar, confronted her and
consequently tried provoking her. Even in such situations, Avvaiyar
maintained her stance of simplicity, composure and righteousness.
However her responses would be so sharp that the truth in them
would make the opponents to put their heads down in shame or in
acceptance of defeat.


One such situation was with Kambar. Kambar gained prominence
and was a hailed for his great work Kamba Ramayanam. The King
was praising Kambar more and seemed to neglect other poets who
have equally contributed to literature. As a result, Kambars pride
knew no bounds, and he too neglected and treated other poets with
disrespect. Even his attire was pompous and prideful. Seeing this,
Avvaiyar sang the following



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Viragar Iruvar Pugazhdhida Vendum
Viral Niraya Modhirangal Vendum Araiyadhanil
Panjenum Pattenum Vendum Avarkavidhai
Nanjenum Vembenum Nandru


meaning, A poet has to have at least two cunning people beside him
to praise him often; Rings in his fingers, dress that is made of
silk or cotton. For such a pompous, gawdy poet, his poetry, even if
rubbish or bitter in meaning, will be praised.

Viragar - Person cunning, shrewd or smart
Pugazh - Praise
Viral - Fingers
Niraya - Full
Modhiram - Ring
Arai Adhanil - Lower half of the body
Panju - Cotton
Pattu - Silk
Kavidhai - Poetry
Nanju - Poison
Vembu - Refers to the Neem tree which indicates bitterness
Nandru - Better

What Avvaiyar conveyed in her song was that even if a poet
has achieved prominence out of his work, a poet has to have
humility. Had not the message been so strong, it would not have
reached.

On seeing Avvaiyar being provoked at Kambars actions, the
King intervened to prevent things from going worse and also he has
a very great respect for Kambar, hence he came to talk in favour
of Kambar. The King said that Kambar is a great poet who has
written an epic in Tamil literature which no other poet has done.
There came the response from Avvaiyar, which was even more
embarassing for Kambar


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Vaankuruviyin Koodu Vallarakku Tholkaraiyaan
Thaen Silambi Yaavarukkum Seiyaridhaal Yaam Peridhum
Vallome Endru Valimai Solla Vendam Kaan
Ellaarkkum Ovondru Elidhu


meaning, building a complex and delicate nest like the weaver bird,
a strong mound like the termite, gathering honey, the intricate spider
web is not easily to be built by all. Likewise, never boast yourself
by the works you have done. Because, each one has a task that he
can do easily. Additionally, one can never claim superiority over the
others by doing a task that is easy for them but difficult or
impossible for the others. Like a weaver bird can build its intricate
nest but cannot build a termite mound, hence cannot claim
superiority by the task one does.

Vaankuruvi - The weaver bird in this context
Vallarakku - Termite mound
Karaiyaan - Termite
Thaen - Honey
Silambi - Spider web
Yaavarkkum - for everyone
Seiyaridhu - Rare/difficult to be done
Yaam - reflexive pronoun
Peridhum - Refers to enormous amount
Vallom - Able
Valimai - Strength, Power
Solla - Tell
Vendaam - Negation of an action
Ellarkkum - for everyone
Ovondru Elidhu - Somethings are easy


Still trying to save Kambars face in front of the other
poets and people in his court, the King said that Kambar was a
poet by birth. Without missing a beat, there came the following song
from Avvaiyar


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Chithiramum Kai Pazhakkam Senthamizhum Naapazhakkam
Vaithadhor Kalviyum Manappazhakkam Niththam
Nadaiyum Nadaipazhakkam Natpum Dhayaiyum
Kodaiyum Piravi Gunam



meaning, The finest art is the practice of the hand; The eloquence
in Tamil literature is the practice of the tongue; The greatness of
knowledge is the practice of the mind; The nobility of behaviour is
by the practice of being nobly behaved. The ones that come by
birth are - friendly attitude, mercy and benevolence.



Chithiram - Art, Painting
Kai - Hand
Pazhakkam - Practice
Senthamizh - Classical Tamil
Naa - Tongue
Kalvi - Knowledge
Manam - mind
Nadai - Behaviour
Natpu - Friendship
Dhayai - Mercy
Kodai - Benevolence
Piravi - Birth
Gunam Character


With this song, Avvaiyar remarked that except friendly
attitude, mercy and benevolence, all other things are acquired by
practice and even Kambars poetic skills are by practice and not by
birth. This put Kambar in a very bad situation of being humiliated
in front of the others.

The King could not tolerate Kambar being humiliated like this,
but he cannot deny the truth attached to Avvaiyars song and
Kambars behaviour at that instance. However, he did not want
Kambar to feel bad about that and hence told that there is no one
to win Kambar in his poetic eloquence. As usual, came a song from
Avvaiyar

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Kaanamal Venadhellam Kathalaam Katrormun
Konaamal Vaai Thirakka Koodathae Naanamal
Pechu Pechu Yenum Perumpoonai Vandhakkal
Keechu Keechu Yenum Kili


meaning, the people train the parrot to speak words. Once it has
learnt to speak a few works, it will talk and gabble continuously.
But when a cat enters the room, it will forget about speaking and
start screeching. Likewise, once we learn or achieve something, we
can talk about it among close circles. But when among learned
people, they have to maintain the humility and keep quiet. Otherwise,
they would be put to a situation like the parrot seeing a cat. The
same was the situation for Kambar, unnecessary talk and pride had
led him to a position that he had to be ashamed and keep quiet.

Kaanaamal - Without the presence or being seen
Venadhellam - Whatever wished
Kaththalaam - Shout
Katror - Learned
Mun - in front of
Konaamal Vaai Thirakka koodathae - Should never open the mouth
Pechu - Speech
Perum Poonai - Big cat
Vandhakkal - Arrive
Keechu - Screeching of a parrot
Kili Parrot




In another instance, Kambar met Avvaiyar and remembering his
past bitter experiences, wanted to humiliate Avvaiyar. So, pretending
to ask a riddle he humiliated her by using the word dee in his
question. In Tamil, suffixing or using dee when speaking to women
is considered derogatory, humiliating and treat the women with utter
disrepect. Likewise using daa for men is derogatory.

So, Kambar asked the following riddle, where he indirectly
referred to the Aarai plant and at the same time, humiliating
Avvaiyar calling dee

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Oru kaaladi Naalilai Pandhaladi

meaning, What has one foot and four roofs. He referred to the
Aarai keerai that grows in mud and near ponds. The vallarai
keerai is a relative of this. He had used the word dee as a pun
to also mean the foot and the thing underneath a roof or a tent

Avvaiyar knew Kambars intentions, grew angry and blasted him
off with the answer at the last in the same style of pun. Kambar
was paid back through the same coin.

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Ettaekaal Latchanamae Yemenerum Pariyae
Mattil Periyammai Vaaganamae Mutta Mael
Koorai Illa Veedae Kula Raaman Thoodhuvanae
Aaraiyada Sonnai Ada


meaning, You disfigured beauty, You buffalo - the mount of Yemen
(The Diety who is believed to take the lives when someone dies),
You donkey - The mount of Moodhevi (The elder sister of Goddess
Lakshmi who is believed to bring bad luck), a roofless wall/home
(Kutti Suvar in Tamil), You monkey - the messenger for Lord Rama.
How dare you address me like that?. The last line is interpreted
as a pun. With the second meaning indicating the answer to
Kambars question, You mentioned the Aarai Keerai.


Ettaekaal Latchanamae - Eight and a quarter beauty - In
Tamil, 8 is written as and quarter as , put together it would
be , meaning ugliness or disfigured.
Yemen - The deity of death
Erum Pariyae - Buffalo, the mount of Yemen
Periyammai - Moodhevi, who is believed to bring bad luck is the
elder sister of Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.

Vaaganam - Mount of Moodhevi - The donkey
Koorai - Roof
Veedu - Home
Kula Raman Thoodhuvan - Hanuman, the monkey God, here refers Kambar
as a monkey
Aarai - Refers to the pronoun who and the plant Aarai
Sonnai - Tell
Ada - Derogatory addressing of a man


Avvaiyar proved her eloquence at all times and never left
anyone offend her even verbally. People who were kind to her got
back the same kindness back. But when provoked they will face the
brunt of her literary eloquence.

Avvaiyar's life history is associated with interesting incidents
and events. One such popular event is the "Sutta Pazham Venduma,
Sudatha Pazham Venduma.." between Avvaiyar and Lord Murugan and
the subsequent dialogues and songs. This post is about that
incidents and the songs associated with that incident.


One day Avvaiyar was very tired walking a long distance, came
to rest under a Naaval Tree (Black/Java Plum). A boy who was
herding cattle in that forest met Avvaiyar on his way. Seeing
Avvaiyar tired and resting under the tree, wanted to help her. He
went to her and asked if he wanted to put down the fruit from
the tree.


Avvaiyar said yes and the boy asked if she wanted "Suttam
Pazhama, Sudatha Pazhama?" meaning the one that is roasted/burnt or
hot or the one that is not. Avvaiyar thought that the kid was
blabbering something as she considered him to be an illiterate, told
him to put the "Sudatha Pazham" (Fruit that is not hot/roasted).




The boy said ok and shook the tree's branch which fell the
ripe fruits on the ground. Avvaiyar started picking those fruits and
found sand sticking to the fruit. So, she started to blow away the
sand in the fruit before eating it. That's when the boy exclaimed
"Is the fruit, hot?". The gesture of blowing the sand in the fruit
appeared as if the fruit was hot. It also meant, that the fruit
that fell to the ground is heated up by the earth's heat and the
one that is caught before it falls to the ground is not.


Avvaiyar had a realisation, she thought the boy to be an
illiterate, but he has taught her a big lesson. Moreover, she had a
momentary pride and neglect in her mind thinking that the boy is
illiterate and she was knowledgeable. This incident made her realise
that nobody should be neglected and she sang this song.


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Karungaali Kattaikku Naanaa Kodali
Irunkadhali Thundukku Naanum Perunkaanil
Kaarerumai Meikkindra Kaalaikku Naan Thotraen
Eeriravum Thunjaathen Kann

meaning, The axe that did not give in even for the hardest
Karungaali Tree, gave in for the tender stem of the plaintain. I
lost to the boy who herds cattle in the big forest, as a result my
eyes will not sleep for two nights.


She also felt that this should be the act of the Divine and
request the boy to reveal his true image.


Then the boy revealed who he was and was Lord Murugan
incarnate. Lord Murugan explained that He wanted to enjoy the
Tamil eloquence of Avvaiyar and He had been playing around to
hear the sweet Tamil from Avvaiyar. Avvaiyar was happy and
worshipped Him.


He asked what is the most awful thing in the world


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Kodiyadhu Kaetkin Nediyavev Veloi
Kodithu Kodithu Varumai Kodithu
Adhaninum Kodithae Ilamayil Varumai
Adhaninum Kodithae Aatronaak Kodunoi
Adhaninum Kodithae Anbila Pendir
Adhaninum Kodithae Inbura Aval Kayil Unbadhu Thaanae




meaning, If You ask what is the most awful thing in the world, my
Lord with the long spear (Vel)
Poverty is awful,
Even more awful is poverty during youth
Even more awful is incurable disease
Even more awful is women without kindness
The most awful to take the food served by her


Then He asked what is the most pleasantest thing in the world.
Avvaiyar sang the following


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Iniyadhu Kaetkin Thaninedu Veloi
Inidhu Inidhu Ekantham Inidhu
Adhaninum Inidhu Aadhiyai Thozhuthal
Adhaninum Inidhu Arivinar Saerdhal
Adhaninum Inidhu Arivullorai
Kanavinum Nanavinum Kaanbadhu Thaanae


meaning, If You ask what is the pleasant thing in this world, my Lord
with the unique spear (Vel)
Being independent and alone is pleasant
Even more pleasant is to worship the Supreme Being
Even more pleasant is to be in touch with the learned and
knowledgeable
Even more pleasant is to see their presence in reality and in the
dreams


Then Lord Murugan asked what is the most biggest thing in the
world. And there came the next song


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Periyadhu Kaetkin Yerithavazh Veloi
Periyadhu Periyadhu Bhuvanam Periyadhu
Bhuvanamo Naanmugan Padaippu
Naanmugan Kariyamaal Undhiyil Vandhon
Kariya Maalo Alaikadal Thuyindron
Alaikadal Kurumuni Angaiyil Adakkam
Kurumuniyo Kalasathir Pirandhon
Kalasamo Puviyir Sirumann
Puviyo Aravinukku Oruthalai Baaram
Aravo Umaiyaval Siruviral Modhiram
Umaiyo Iraivan Baagaththu Odukkam
Iraivaro Thondar Ullaththu Odukkam
Thondartham Perumai Sollavum Peridhae

meaning, if You ask me the biggest thing.


The world (landscape) is a big thing
The world is a creation of Lord Brahma
Lord Brahma came from the umbilical cord of Lord Vishnu
Lord Vishnu sleeps in the big ocean
The big ocean was contained within Agathiar's kamandalam (small vessel)
Agathiar was born in a small pot (Kalasam)
The pot is a small portion of this earth
The earth is a burden for one of the heads for the Aadhi Seshan -
The snake with a thousand heads
The Aadhi Seshan is a ring in Goddess Parvathi's finger
Goddess Parvathi is a part of Lord Shiva
Lord Shiva is inside the hearts of his devotees
So praising the devotees of Lord Shiva is a big thing

Though the comparison Avvaiyar made might be logically
questionable, but when we observe the beauty, the comparison goes
on increasing in size until in gets into the small heart of the
devotees

The last one asked by Lord Murugan was about the rarest
thing. Avvaiyar responded with the song below


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Ariyadhu Kaetkin Varivadi Veloi
Makkal Yaakkaiyir Piraththalum Aridhae
Makkal Yaakkaiyir Pirandha Kaalaiyum
Moongaiyum Sevidum Koonum Kurudum
Paedum Neengip Piraththalum Aridhae
Paedu Neengi Pirandha Kaalayum
Gnanamum Kalviyum Nankural Aridhae
Gnanamum Kalviyum Nankurum Aayinum
Dhananum Dhavamum Thariththalum Aridhae
Dhananum Dhavamum Tharithaark Kalladhu
Vaanavar Naadu Vazhi Thiravaadhae

meaning, if You ask me what is the rarest thing, my Lord with the
spear (Vel)
Being born as a human is rare
Even if born a human, it is rarer
To be born without being dumb, deaf, humpback, blind
Even if born without disabilities, it is rarer
To have knowledge and education
Even if one has good knowledge and education, it is rarer
To have benevolence and ethics
Without those benevolence and ethics
Heaven would not open its gates to give to people


That pleased Lord Murugan, Avvaiyar's eloquence and poetry
made Him happy. He blessed her for her knowledge and literary
eloquence and left.



Though these songs have been made popular through movies
and music discs, some of them were modified to match the tune or
situation. However the meaning conveyed is more or less similar. All
these songs by Avvaiyar inculcate moral values and at the same
time are also more captivating too.

It is clear about the influence of Avvaiyar's works even to
the common man. Her songs are lucid, simple and convey a great
meaning that still progresses even to this day in the form of
sayings and quotes.



The following verses are examples of her works that have
permeated to all generations of people. Being used commonly to
portray moral values.



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Sollamalae Periyar Solli Seivar Siriyar
Solliyum Seiyyaar Kayavarae Nalla
Kulamaalai Vel Kannaai Kooruvamai Naadil
Palaa Maavai Paadhiriyai Paar


meaning, people who help without being asked for are noble and
generous. The ones who help after being asked are mingy or mean.
Those who don't help even after asking are crooks. They are
comparable to the Jackfruit, Mango tree and the Paadhiri tree.
Jackfruit, gives benefit without indication like flowering that it is
going to bear a fruit. The mango flowers announcing bearing the
fruit, whereas the Paadhiri tree just flowers but does not bear any
fruit.





The next song is about a miserly businessman who is very
fond of praises but never gives even the least valued copper coin
to those who praise him. The businessman's name was Koraikkal
Azhwan. He was very wealthy that was an attraction, which
sometimes made poets to think that he would provide money if they
sang songs in praise of him. So, poets would go to him sing
praises about him, Azhwan would enjoy such praises, but would say
some reasons and ask them to come the next day. So, most poets
would walk to him for a few days and then give up.


Avvaiyar knew about this and wanted to teach him a lesson,
so she went to him and praised him about the wealth he had.
Azhwan was happy and told Avvaiyar that he would provide her
wealth and send her along with an elephant the next day. Avvaiyar
went to him the next day, Azhwan said that elephant would be of
no use to Avvaiyar, also that she is old, she would not be able to
maintain and elephant, so he promised that he would give her a
horse, with which she can travel.



Avvaiyar nodded and went to him the next day expecting a
horse. But again, Azhwan said that a buffalo might be more useful
for her as she can get milk from a buffalo and asked her to
come the next day.



Avvaiyar patiently went the next day, this time Azhwan said
that he will give her an Ox instead of a buffalo. Avvaiyar spoke
no word and went the next day, again he said that he would give
her a saree the next day.



Avvaiyar knew this would happen and spoke to him that the
saree would wear out in to useless threads and sang the following
song which severly condemned Azhwan's behaviour. From then on,
Azhwan stopped the practice of making people walk for the prize he
is not willing to give and also stopped hearing praises from poets.


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Kariyaai Pariyaagi Kaarerumai Thaanaai
Erudhaai Muzhappudavai Yaagi Thirithiriyaaith
Theraikkaal Pettrumiga Theynthukaal Ointhathae
Koraikkaal Azhwaan Kodai


meaning, First an elephant, then a horse and then a buffalo. Next
day an Ox, and finally a saree which in turn would go into useless
threads. I (Avvaiyar) walked in vain just to get my feet worn out
and get flat as a toad's webbed feet. All because of the
generosity of Koraikkal Azhwan.


The next verse is so popular that it has been used almost
everywhere. It is so ubiquitous, that everyone agrees to it without
question. It is "Kattradhu Kai Mann Alavu, Kallaadhadhu Ulagalavu..."
meaning, what we have learnt is like a handful of sand, but what
we haven't learnt is like this whole world. This same line in the
verse has been cited by NASA too. That makes us proud that we
professed the quality of humility to the world well before anyone
did.


There is an interesting legend about this verse. Once, a poet
wanted to insult Avvaiyar, when she arrived at the King's court, he
just showed a handful of sand, indicating that she and her works
was nothing more than the worthless handful of sand. Avvaiyar
immediately sang this verse which expressed the need for humility
and that one should not take pride that he has learned everything.


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Kattradhu Kai Mann Alavu Kallaadhadhu Ulagalavu
Endruttra Kalaimadandhai Odhukiraal Meththa
Verum Pandhayam Koora Vendam Pulaveer
Erumbum Thann Kaiyaal Enn Saan


meaning, Even the Goddess of Knowledge, Goddess Saraswathi,
meditates and learns everyday, knowing the fact that what we have
learnt is like a handful of sand and what we haven't learned is
like this whole world. So, don't challenge someone without knowing
about them. Even the ant measures, 8 spans of its own hand, but
it cannot compare itself to a human who is many times bigger.


The last line made the poet realise his mistake, Avvaiyar
comparing him to an ant, made him feel that he has done a mistake
and apologized to Avvaiyar.


The next verse is also very popular though people use only
the first line quite often "Madhiyaadhar Vaasal Midhiyadhae..."
meaning, don't step into the house of those who don't respect you.
There is an interesting legend associated with this verse too.


There was once a man who was miserly, but proclaimed that
he was generous and gave away a lot of money to those who won
his challenge. Likewise, he would provide a challenge often. He would
pose false arguments to those who actually win his challenge and
would send them away. Avvaiyar who coincidentally travelled to his
place when he announced that he would provide 1000 gold coins to
whoever sings "4 crore" songs.




Avvaiyar took the challange and the crowd gathered with the
judges to adjudge the results. The man was confident that noone
could sing so many songs and they would not win the challenge.
Avvaiyar sang the song with 4 crores appearing in it, though he
argued that this cannot be 4 crore songs, the judges adjudged that
it is valid as the song contained 4 crores. Avvaiyar won the prize
money.


Here is the song


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Madhiyadhaar Muttram Madhithuorukaal Sendru
Midhiyaamai Kodi Perum
Unneer Unneer Endru Ubasariyaar Thammanaiyil
Unnaamai Kodi Perum
Kodi Koduthum Kudipirandhaar Thammodu
Kooduvadhae Kodi Perum
Kodaanu Kodi Kodupinum Thannudai Naa
Kodaamai Kodi Perum


meaning, Don't step into the house of those who don't show respect.
That is like getting a crore of wealth. Don't eat at the home of
someone who don't show good hospitality, that is like getting a
crore of wealth. Even if you spend a crore to get the relationship
of noble people, it is like getting a crore of wealth. Finally, even
if you get crores and crores of wealth, keeping up the promise is
like getting a crore of wealth.

The song above, illustrates the Avvaiyar's presence of mind
and her interesting use of vocabulary to win the situation.

The last song of this post, is quite heavy in its meaning and
stresses the importance of family and relations. One has to take
care of these relationships in order to lead a better life.


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Thaaiyodu Arusuvaipom Thandhaiyodu Kalvipom
Seiyodu Thaan Pettra Selvampom Maayavaazhvu
Uttraarudanpom Udanpirappaal Thol Valipom
Pottraaliyodu Yevaiyum Pom

meaning, With the mother, goes tasty food. With the father, goes
knowledge and learning. With the children, goes away all the wealth.
With the relatives, goes away the illusionary happy living. With the
sibling, goes away the strength. With the spouse, goes away
everything.



These days people go to separate mentoring courses to learn
about the importance of family. Avvaiyar has given us this treasure
centuries back, when people would have never imagined that there
would be a time when people would forget about their family,
relations and would chase money and live a meaningless life.

It is not only Avvaiyaar but
also the countless Thamizh
Siddhars, Gnanis, saints, poets and
enlightened masters like
Thiruvalluvar, Vallalar, Bodhi
dharma that the Thamizh
community has offered to the
world their treatise. Just following
Avvaiyar's sayings would help a
man lead an eternal and a
peaceful life.
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Lord Macaulays educational system:
In 1835, Lord Macaulay was made a law member of the
Governor General-in-Council. Soon, he became the President of the
General Committee of Public Institution. As the president of the
committee, he put forward his education policy in Governor-General~in-
Council on February 2, 1835, which ended the Orientalist-Anglicist
row. On the very same date, Macaulay gave a speech in the British
parliament as follows:
I have travelled across the length and breadth of India and I
have not seen one person who is a beggar, who is a thief. Such
wealth I have seen in the country, such high moral values, people
of such caliber, that I do not think we would conquer this country,
unless we break the very backbone of this nation, which is her
spiritual and cultural heritage, and therefore, I propose that we
replace her old and ancient education system, her culture, for if
the Indians think that all that is foreign and English is good and
greater than their own, they will lose their self esteem, their native
culture and they will become what we want them, a truly dominated
nation.
The evidence follows below:
http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Talk:Thomas_Babington_Macaulay,_1st_Baron_Macaulay
http://amrutmanthan.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/amrutmanthan_lordmacaulayspsychologythe
rootcausebehindbritishindiasbanefuleducationsystem_101003.pdf
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BRlLpzi7JE
http://www.hindujagruti.org/news/1044.html


Macaulayism:
Macaulayism is the conscious policy of liquidating indigenous
culture through the planned substitution of the alien culture of a
colonizing power via the education system. The term is derived from
the name of British politician Thomas Babington Macaulay (1800-1859),
an individual who was instrumental in the introduction of English as
the medium of instruction in the higher education of India.


In the independent nation of India which emerged in the
second half of the 20th century, Macaulay's name has become
emblematic for the ills of colonialism. Macaulay and the British
education system have been blamed for producing a generation of
Indians not proud of their distinct heritage.



Speaking at a national seminar on "Decolonizing English
Education" in 2001, professor Kapil Kapoor of Jawaharlal Nehru
University declared that one of the byproducts of mainstream English
language education in India today has been its tendency to
"marginalize inherited learning" and to have uprooted academics from
traditional Indian modes of thought, inducing in them "a spirit of
self-denigration.



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The culture of a soil is the soul and DNA of the soil.
Every country in the world, which has an international standing has
become so because it focused on its cultural strength. The cultural
strength of India has always been its spiritual orientation. With
every citizen of its soul actualizing and maximizing his potential, in
alignment to the culture of this soil, a new India shall be built.
When a new India is built with its spiritual rootedness, a new
world shall be built.

Infinitheism is a path of contemporary spirituality that is
born to enable this generation to adaptto the timeless spiritual
wisdom of India and to encompass the entire spirituality within its
fold.




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JAIVANTH



Q / Q:

https://www.facebook.com/thamizhaathamizhaa
http://ulagathamizharmaiyam.blogspot.in/2010/11/3.html
http://tamilnation.co/literature/auvaiyar/athisoodi.htm
http://www.aramseyavirumbu.com/
http://tamilkkalvi.blogspot.in/search/label/%E0%AE%86%E0%AE%A4%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%A4%E0%AE
%BF%E0%AE%9A%E0%AF%82%E0%AE%9F%E0%AE%BF
http://lemuracad.blogspot.in/2013/07/inenglish.html
http://ta.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AE%86%E0%AE%A4%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%A4%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%
9A%E0%AF%82%E0%AE%9F%E0%AE%BF
http://rprabhu.blogspot.in/search?updatedmin=20110101T00:00:00%2B05:30&updatedmax=2012
0101T00:00:00%2B05:30&maxresults=7
http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Talk:Thomas_Babington_Macaulay,_1st_Baron_Macaulay