The Hindu’s Faith Column | January 22, 2025

Tiruppavai, Andal’s composition, is a concise version of the Vedas and shows devotees the way to attain Krishna’s feet, said Damal Perundevi.

The first few verses exemplify the five forms (nilais) of the Supreme. The first speaks of Narayana (para tatva), the second of vyuha; the third verse, Ongi ulagalandha, on Tiruvikrama is a reflection of vibhava state; in Azhi mazhai Kanna, Andal is referring to the antaryami state of the Lord. In the verse, Mayanai mannu vada Madurai, she is referring to archa state, referencing Mathura as his abode. Andal repeatedly reinforces the importance of namasankirtan and surrender, invoking devotees to take the bhakti highway to reach Krishna’s feet.

Why does Andal wake up Nandagopala, Yashodha and Balarama? She does so in order to highlight the lofty, virtuous and disciplined characteristics of the three, aspects that everyone can develop and nurture. In “Ambarame, thannere, sore, aramseyyum empuruman Nandagopala”, Andal says one cannot come across a more charitable person than Nandagopala. Krishna chose Vasudeva and Devaki as His birth parents, but opted to be raised by Nandagopala and Yashodha, and growing up, along with Balarama, He followed their example of charitable and notable deeds.

‘Kombanarkellam kozhundhey, kula vilakke’, sings Andal, of Yashodha. She is hailed as the torchbearer because she pointed everyone in the direction of Krishna. Narayana Bhattatri says Yashodha had the supreme fortune to cuddle Krishna on her lap, feed Him, sing lullabies, etc. Above all, He allowed Yashodha to bind Him. She is Jagati Punyavanto jitaaha, the most fortunate one on earth who was virtuous, having mastered all virtues.

After Balarama, she approaches Krishna, regaling his glory in Tiruvikrama avatar. Evocative of her description, Swami Vedanta Desikan says the stars in the sky that were like a crown above His head, graced His neck and waist with each successive step and twinkled like anklets on His feet with the last step, indicating his stature. Andal shows the way for all to be enthralled by Krishnanubhavam.