(101) (Meera) A Star Is Born

It was the approach of dawn, Rupa Goswami of Vrindavan, Had his usual bath in the chill water Of the holy Jamuna River. On the twilight sky, a star, Not so near, nor too far, Flew fast in the direction Of the North-western horizon. He knew it was a sign For a star was just born, The earthly life to share, In this land, somewhere. He stood in reverence, And paid his obeisance Towards the same direction For this heavenly mission. At that time, in Rajasthan, In the royal Merta Town, A female baby was born To Chandramugi, the queen. Rajputs respected all women, But mostly preferred men, As a tribe of warriors, To fight in the wars. Her father, Rathan Singh, The Merta’s ruling King, Was of different kind, Having a spiritual mind. His joy knew no bound, On seeing this only child, That was born to them After a very long time. Twelve days had passed. A Pundit was then called To give her a fair name That would bring her fame. For a proper calculation Her birth star was taken, And the name was given As Meera, the limitless one. Meera, it meant, the boundary, Or the ocean, alternatively, Her limitless love for God And devotion to the Lord. The child attracted everyone And their praises she won, For her face was so fine, Like the bright moonshine.