O Neela with wide lively eyes lined black
By M Sridhar Published on 12 Jan 2023 6:30 AM GMT
Tiruppavai - 19
Tamil Paashuram
Kuthuvilakkeriya-k-kottukkaal Kattil Mel
Methhenra Pancha Sayanathil Meleri
Koththalar Poonkuzhal Nappinnai Kongaiymel
Viththu Kidantha Malar Maarbhavaai Thiravaai!
Maiththadam Kanninnaai, Nee Un Manaalanai
Ethanai Podhum Thuyilezha Vottaai Kaan
Ethanai Yelum Pirivaatrakillaaiyaal
Thathuvamanru Thagav-el or Empaavaai
Madabhushi Sridhar's English Poem 19
Clusters of oil- lamps burning bright,
On a sculpted cot with four-ivory legs,
On cool, white, soft bed of five merits,
On the bosom of Neela with flower- decked plait,
O Krishna, please utter a word at least,
O Neela with wide lively eyes lined black,
Can't you leave Him for a minute, at least?
It is not your nature or character to hold Him so.
Meaning:
Goda is exploring the valour, beauty, and romantic personality of Krishna in this song. Having ivory legs for his very wide cot represents his adventurous and courageous deeds. Those ivory legs were made of the tusks of Kuvalayapeedam sent by Kamsa to kill him. The mattress on that cot was filled with white, soft cotton spreading fragrance. After tiresome deeds, Krishna retires to sleep leaning on the bosom of Neela. At times, it is reverse; Neela relaxes on the broad chest of Narayana. Though she hears the Gopikas' calls for Krishna, she wants to respond to them without disturbing Krishna.
