Spgm 060 - The Monkey-Hand Disciple Poem by Rajaram Ramachandran

Kownthi Adigal told a story:

"One by name Sayalan,
A noble business man,
He gave food in charity,
To the needy in the city."

"Among them was a saint,
For the food there he went.
His remnants a monkey ate,
Thus its hunger to satiate."

"It remained there quiet,
And didn't cause any hurt.
The saint told them to keep it
And rare it as their pet."

"One day, this lovely pet died,
All the rites the couples did.
Later, as a noble's only son,
At Varanavasi it was born."

"These charitable acts always pay,
They yield good results any day.
So Madhari, take Kannagi early
And keep her with you carefully."

15. Surrounded by the shepherds

Her words Madhari appreciated.
To take Kannagi with her she agreed.
Towards their destination they walked.
By then the sunset in the west started.

For feeding the calves by the evening,
The cows were constantly yelling.
The shepherds were returning
With their cattle after grazing.

16. At the gates of Madurai

All the entrance gates to the city
Were well guarded for its safety.
It was surrounded by wide moats,
Well defended by bows and boats.

Weapons of all sorts, stone throwers,
Stone baskets, boiling hot oil sprayers,
Long sharp edged spear sticks,
Were kept, side by side, in heaps.

17. They reached Madhari's house

Its flag high up the fortress held.
Before the darkness enveloped,
Madhari crossed all the gates,
With her new found guests.

She reached her sweet home.
Other shepherdess with her came.
At last, the couples had a shelter.
It was for them a fresh life starter.