#27 (Thyagaraja) The Saint's Pilgrimage

Thyagaraja wasn’t for wealth, But maintained perfect health, To keep his daily routine going On composing songs and singing. The Deity was life for him. In fact, he wasted no time In his services to the Lord, Who, by his side, always stood. It was after his wife’s death He went on pilgrimage-path To different holy places Just to satisfy his followers. Tirupathi was one such place, He went with his disciples, To see the Lord of seven hills, God Venkateswara, His Grace. Hidden, in front, by a screen, The Lord couldn’t be seen. As it wasn’t the visiting hour For anyone, who came there. In praise of the Lord he sang And the Lord heard his song. The screen voluntarily moved And the Saint saw the Lord. The temple authorities realized A great Soul there had arrived. With full honors of the temple They received him then well. (He sang in Raga Madhyamavati Venkatesa Ninnu Sevimpathu pathi Vela kanulu Kavalanaiyya) “Oh Lord Venkateswara, the Savior Of all the Sages, you stay here. To see you on the top of these hills. One needs ten thousand eyes.” “Praised you’re great world over, To see you, out of love, I came here. With your beautiful bright face, Come and save me, Your Grace.” “Your great name, like nectar juice Fortunate I’m to chant in this place. Oh Lord of Lakshmi, is there Any match to your feet, as seen here? ” “Oh Dear! You’re great! Devotees are so fortunate To surrender at your feet And have you in their hearts.”