Nallathor Veenai Poem by Shankaran Kutty

(inspired by the Bahrathiar classic from Tamil)

Having made a Veena so noble
Would I leave it in the mud to go waste
Tell me O Mother, why with all this skill
And wisdom, me, you did create

That my nation with Purpose live
Will you not give me the power
For this land, as unbearable burden
Am I to live, tell me O Mother

A body flexible like a rolling ball
That can move like the mind’s desire
A mind that wards off poisonous thoughts
That only goodness will it inspire

I asked you for a soul My Lord
That remains fresh and new each day
And spotless shall my soul remain
My Lord, please show me the way

Give me the power O Holy Mother
That even when my tongue is burnt
I sing songs of you and your infinite powers
About you the songs that I have learnt

I ask you for a mind my Lord
A mind from desires free
These are all that of you I ask
Won’t you grant them to me.?