#26 (Thyagaraja) A Surprise Visit Poem by Rajaram Ramachandran

Late one night, an old man
Came with his old woman
And his servant to visit
Thyagaraja, the Saint.

Nothing was there to offer
To them at that late hour.
For that, he felt very sorry,
But they told him not to worry.

They unfolded a bundle,
With all the provisions full,
Which the servant cooked,
And they ate the tasty food.

Then they had a long chat
Not knowing how the night
In their talk, passed away
Until the early next day.

While leaving, the stranger said
“Your name will spread
Everywhere, worldwide, ”
Thus the Saint was blessed.

The three then went out
But outside his main gate
They were not suddenly seen.
“Where they’ve gone? ”

It gave him a surprise.
He then came to realize
Rama and Sita, from the Heaven,
Visited his house with Hanuman.

Overwhelmed with joy, he sang,
In Raga Mohana, a nice song,
In that touching moment,
After that great event.

(He sang “Bavanudha Naa Hirudhayamuna)

“Oh Lord, worshiped by Siva!
Also joins with Him Lord Brahma!
I pray, play in my heart,
Until it tires you out.”

“Oh Lord, You’re the cause,
This life-ocean for me to cross!
Oh the dear Master of Hanuman!
I’m blessed with your vision.”

“Night long, you had a chat.
You came all the way for that,
For my sake from the Heaven,
And served my food even! ”

“Also I’ll be popular, you said,
You need rest as you’re tired,
Having come all the way here.
Save Thyagaraja, this is his prayer.”