Kagga 181
D. V. Gundappa · 1887–1975 · from the Kannada original
Transliteration
kSHaNavondaroLe pUrti kolluvudu yamashUlakSHaNavanukShaNa kolluvuvu mOhamamatekuNikeyanu ninna koraLige hUDi chirakAlavaNuvaNuve bigiyuvuvo – MANKUTIMMA
Interpretation
There exists a dichotomy between reality & illusion in this Universe. The Creator has created this to challenge man as he progresses through his life
To further challenge man, the boundary between reality & illusion is so fine that the transition is almost seamless
When any person experiences love & affection from another, it is but natural that develops a close feeling for that person.
As time goes by, the same behavioral traits rather than generate pleasure starts to become a millstone around the neck
Mankutimma, this recognition of illusion is something critical for you to understand. As long as traits like love & affection are in moderation, it inspires you. When excessive, it suffocates you. Also important for you to understand is the intent behind the love & affection…discern on this aspect very carefully to understand whether it is selfless love or there is a hidden intent behind it…for if it is not selfless, it does not take long for it to asphyxiate you.
Did this poetry & its translation speak to you?