Kagga 383
D. V. Gundappa · from the Kannada original
Transliteration
janakajeya darushanidinAytu rAvaNa chapalakanakamRugadarushanade jAnakiya chapalajanavavana nindipudu, kanikaripudAkeyalimanada bageyaridadu – MANKUTIMMA
Interpretation
Among the many dichotomies designed by the Creator in His Universe is the one related to the five senses that He has imparted in man
In addition to the conundrum between whether to suppress the senses or use them; to add to the complexity, there is no absolute right or wrong desire…it is all very contextual
Mankutimma, Ravana’s senses were aroused when he saw Sita in the forest and he kidnapped her. Sita’s senses were aroused when she saw the golden deer & she sent Laxmana to catch it…both yielded to their baser desires, which were the same – gain possession of someone that arouses your senses. Yet, see how people react differently to the same action – Ravana is reviled as a villain while Sita is sympathised as a victim. Was the deed of one absolute right & that of another absolute wrong? Who can say how the world will react to a simple act of yours? Don’t worry about what others think – be clear in your conscience & follow your heart
Did this poetry & its translation speak to you?