The Fifth Delight
Shri Raghavendra Gurusarvabhauma
42. Moments of Marital Bliss
With Venkatanatha’s sisters-in-law, Venkatamba and Kamaladevi, along with their children, having left for their hometown, Saraswati felt a deep sense of longing. She had been so accustomed to their lively company, their constant laughter, and affectionate conversations that time had passed without her noticing. Now, in their absence, an unusual solitude enveloped her. Her heart longed for love and companionship, and though she yearned for her husband's presence, her natural shyness restrained her.
Gopamma, being keenly perceptive, noticed Saraswati’s silent yearning for Venkatanatha’s closeness and conversation. Wanting to create opportunities for the young couple to share moments of happiness, she often found playful excuses to leave them alone together.
One afternoon, seeing Saraswati sitting idly in her room, Gopamma smiled knowingly and said, “Saraswati, they are narrating a Purana at the temple. Savitramma and Ramabai have been insisting that you should join them for the past three days. I am going there now. I have already prepared milk and fruits. Give them to Venkatanatha and take care of the house.” Without waiting for a reply, she left with a mischievous smile.
Saraswati immediately understood the loving intent behind her mother-in-law’s words. Seeing her deep concern and generosity, tears welled up in her eyes. “How fortunate I am! Even my own mother did not shower me with such love!” she thought. Overcome with joy and gratitude, she gathered the milk, fruits, and betel leaves, and stepped into her husband's room.
Her heart danced like a peacock in the rain, filled with excitement and anticipation.
Venkatanatha was reclining on a cot, seemingly asleep, a serene smile adorning his face. Placing the milk and fruits carefully on a nearby seat, Saraswati gazed at him. The warmth of the summer sun had left tiny beads of sweat glistening on his forehead. She sat beside him, leaned forward, and gently wiped away the sweat with her soft veil.
Venkatanatha, who had been feigning sleep, suddenly shifted, causing his arm to brush against Saraswati’s back. A shiver ran through her, and her face flushed crimson with shyness.
Slowly, he opened his eyes and whispered her name with affectionate warmth, "Saras."
That single utterance of her name was soaked in love, stirring waves of joy in her heart.
Realizing that her husband had only pretended to be asleep, she cast a sidelong glance at him in playful reproach and softly said, “Mother has sent milk and fruits for you. Please have them.”
Smiling, Venkatanatha looked at her with tender mischief and said, “Saras, you must feed me the fruit and make me drink the milk yourself.”
Saraswati: Swami, why are you being stubborn like a child?
Venkatanatha: So, if we are not children, does that mean we are old men?
Saraswati: (blushing) Neither children nor old men!
Venkatanatha: Then, does that mean you consider me a young man?
Saraswati: (playfully frowning) Why do you enjoy teasing me so much?
Venkatanatha: (laughing) Isn't this the right age for it? Shouldn’t one behave according to their stage in life?
Saraswati: (embarrassed) Swami, I don’t understand what you mean. Who said certain behaviors are required at a particular age?
Venkatanatha: Saras! Haven’t you read the Raghuvamsha?
Saraswati: Yes, I have read it.
Venkatanatha: (smiling mischievously) Then, recite the verse where Kalidasa explains the duties of the four stages of life.
Saraswati, feeling shy, began reciting, “Shaishave’bhyasta vidyanam” but then bit her lip and fell silent.
Venkatanatha: Ah, wait a moment. In childhood, one must learn and acquire knowledge. That, we have done. Hmm, what comes next?
Saraswati, blushing, cast a sidelong glance at him and softly continued, “Yauvane vishaye ratih” (In youth, one should engage in worldly pleasures), then quickly lowered her head.
Venkatanatha: Now that’s correct! Isn’t it our duty to follow Kalidasa’s teachings? Do you now understand why I was teasing you?
Saraswati, overwhelmed by a mix of shyness and love, felt a rush of happiness. She gently fed him fruits, offered him milk, and handed him betel leaves.
Venkatanatha, smiling with joy, reciprocated by offering her fruits, milk, and betel leaves.
Saraswati, giggling softly, asked, “Are you satisfied now?”
Venkatanatha: Oh, beyond satisfied—completely blissful!
Saraswati: Swami, they say that a wish made in a moment of happiness is instantly fulfilled. Is that true?
Venkatanatha: Yes, absolutely true!
Saraswati: Then, will my beloved grant the request of his humble servant with joy?
Venkatanatha: (cheerfully) Isn’t that why I am here? Tell me, what do you wish for?
Saraswati: Then give me your word that you will fulfill my request.
Venkatanatha: (laughing, placing his hand on hers) I promise I will grant your wish. Now, tell me what it is.
Saraswati: Swami, the whole world praises you as Sakala Kalavallabha and as the emperor of veena music. But despite being the wife of such a master, I have never had the fortune of hearing your veena. Is this fair?
Venkatanatha: So, you mean to say that you have never heard my veena before?
Saraswati: No, Swami. I have never had that privilege.
Venkatanatha: (in a teasing voice) Oh, Saras, why do you lie?
Saraswati: (pouting playfully) Swami! Am I the kind of woman who would lie to you?
Venkatanatha: (smiling) Ah, even when you get upset, you look so beautiful, Saras! But think again—haven’t you heard my veena at least once?
Saraswati: (reminiscing, then smiling) True, Swami, I did hear it once, but only for a moment.
Venkatanatha: Aha! Now you’re on the right track. Tell me, when did you hear it? Let’s see if you remember correctly.
Saraswati: (blushing) Oh, Swami, you always find ways to tease me.
Venkatanatha: (stubbornly, like a playful child) No, no! Tell me, Saras! Tell me!
Saraswati: (glancing at him shyly) I feel embarrassed... How can I say it?
Venkatanatha: Why be shy about telling me when you heard it?
Saraswati: (lowering her head) The situation... was such... that I feel shy to say it out loud.
Venkatanatha: But who else is here? It’s just the two of us! Don’t be shy, tell me.
Saraswati: (blushing, lowering her head) Must I say it? Hmm... Listen then. That day, the elders had gone out. At home, it was just Ambā, Akka, and me. You returned from outside and went to your room. Ambā then said, “Saraswati, your husband has come. Go give him milk, fruit, and tambula.”
I stood still, too shy to move. Akka laughed and asked, “Why are you feeling so shy, silly girl?” I replied, “What should I do, Akka? I feel shy and scared to go to him.” Ambā laughed and said, “Oh, foolish girl! If you keep acting like this, how will you manage your household in the future? Kamala, bring the milk and fruit, I’ll give it to him myself.” Then she looked at me and smiled.
I quickly gathered courage and said, “Why trouble yourself, Ambā? I’ll take it myself.” So Akka brought the silver tray with the milk and fruit, and I took it in my hands. Seeing me hesitate, she held my hand and led me all the way to your door before silently signaling me to enter, then turned back.
I was standing at the threshold, filled with a mix of shyness, anticipation, joy, and hesitation, unsure of what to do. Just then, the sound of your veena filled the air. That sweet melody sent shivers through me. I had heard so much about your mastery of the veena, and I longed to experience it myself. I wanted to step inside, but instead, I stood frozen at the doorway.
You began playing an ashtapadi of Jayadeva. The moment I heard it, my heart overflowed with bliss. But as I stood there, I noticed Akka approaching. Startled, I quickly stepped inside. Just then, you stopped playing and lay down on the bed as if asleep!
I saw you pretending, and a part of me wanted to laugh, while another part was filled with shyness. Yet, I walked up to your bedside and stood there. Suddenly, you opened your eyes as if just waking up and said, “Oh, Saraswati! When did you come?”
I smiled shyly and lowered my head.
Venkatanatha: (laughing) Alright, what happened next?
Saraswati: (covering her face with her hands) Must you make me say everything myself?
Venkatanatha: (holding her hand gently) Ah, Saras, you narrate it so beautifully. Tell me what happened next.
Saraswati: (smiling shyly) You held my hand and made me sit beside you, then asked, “Oh, you brought fruit and milk?” You took the fruit, ate it, drank the milk, and chewed the tambula, all the while looking at me lovingly and gently stroking my head.
Just then, Akka entered the room, saw us, and, smiling mischievously, stepped back. Embarrassed, I pulled my hand away from yours and ran out of the room!
Oh, Swami, after that, how shy I felt whenever I faced Ambā and Akka! Do you know how embarrassed I was?
(Saying this, Saraswati shyly glanced at her husband and covered her face with her hands!)
Venkatanatha: Why are you blushing now over something that happened so long ago?
Saraswati: Swami, even today, the memory of that moment sends shivers through me!
Venkatanatha: Ah, is that so? Tell me, what was I playing on the veena that day?
Saraswati: (smiling) Wasn’t it Jayadeva’s Ashtapadi, Swami?
Venkatanatha: (pretending ignorance) Which Ashtapadi?
Saraswati: Oh, you enjoy teasing me, while I struggle with embarrassment! Why must I say everything? You were playing—
"Pravisha Radhe! Madhava Sameepam
Manjutara Kunja-Tala Keli-Sadané
Iha Vilasa Rati-Rabhasa-Hasita-Vadané!"
on the veena!
Venkatanatha: Ah, so you remember it all so clearly!
Saraswati: That’s fine, Swami, but tell me—why did you choose that particular Ashtapadi? And why did you stop playing so suddenly?
Venkatanatha: Because… the moment demanded it!
Saraswati: (chuckling) What kind of moment was that, Swami?
Venkatanatha: Oh, that scene is still vivid in my mind! You were walking gracefully, carrying a silver cup of milk in one hand and a plate of fruits and betel leaves in the other, swaying ever so slightly with each step. It was so mesmerizing that it sent shivers down my spine! You looked just like Radha approaching Madhava. But then—you stopped at the doorway, hesitant.
That’s when Jayadeva’s Ashtapadi came to my mind. I realized you wouldn’t enter unless I invited you. So, I played—
"Pravisha Radhe! Madhava Sameepam!"
on the veena, calling you in. And it worked! You blushed, smiled, and stepped inside. My intention was fulfilled, so I stopped playing!
Saraswati’s heart swelled with joy at his words. She felt a deep, tender happiness spread through her. Yet, pretending to be annoyed, she pouted.
Saraswati: Hmph! Men cannot be trusted! You knew everything, yet you never once mentioned it to me until now! So, all your actions that day—were they all just an act?
Venkatanatha: (holding her hand gently) Don’t be upset, my dearest! Some moments are best preserved as silent treasures. That’s what makes them precious!
Saraswati: Tell me truly, Swami—how did you know I would come that day?
Venkatanatha: Oh, how could I not? I had overheard Akka and Ambā teasing you and sending you in with the milk and fruit. Did you think I was so naïve as to not expect you?
Saraswati: Hmph! You always pretend to be so clever! So, in the end, it was only my innocence that was on display that day, wasn’t it? Fine, let that be. But tell me, Swami—how could that fleeting moment of hearing your veena be enough for me?
(Looking at him intently, she leaned forward slightly, her voice turning soft yet firm.)
Saraswati: Don’t forget your word! You promised. Will you play the veena for me or not?
Venkatanatha: Don’t be upset, my delicate one! I will play the veena for as long as it takes to satisfy you. But on one condition.
Saraswati: (excitedly) What condition, Swami? Tell me!
Venkatanatha: I will play the veena—but you must sing!
Saraswati: (smiling mischievously, quoting a Sanskrit verse)
"A parrot may try to cross the ocean, but can it truly reach the shore?"
Venkatanatha: (laughing, replying with another verse)
"A firefly may glow, but does it shine brighter than the sun?"
Saraswati: (grinning) How can I ever defeat you in words, Swami?
Venkatanatha: Then how do you plan to defeat me?
Saraswati: (blushing) Oh, Swami, you are always teasing me!
Venkatanatha: Tell me, Saras! Will you sing or not? If you truly wish to hear my veena, you must sing!
Saraswati: You are my lord—how can I disobey? I will sing, but on one condition: You must not laugh at my singing!
Venkatanatha: Agreed! As my beloved wishes. Now, bring me the veena.
Saraswati’s heart filled with boundless joy. She rushed to bring the veena and placed it before her husband with reverence.
Venkatanatha: Saraswati, let us begin!
As his fingers gently touched the strings, a wave of divine music filled the room. The enchanting melody sent shivers through Saraswati’s body. Her heart swelled with devotion and love.
Venkatanatha played a line from Jayadeva’s Ashtapadi. As the melody unfolded, Saraswati’s face turned crimson with emotion. The music seemed to speak to her soul. He played the line again and smiled at her.
Venkatanatha: Come, Saras! Sing.
Saraswati gazed at him with deep affection. Her voice trembled at first, but then she surrendered herself to the melody and began to sing:
"Dhīra-samīre Yamunā-tīre Vasati Vane Vanamālī
Gopī pīna-payodara-parisara-chañchala-kara-yugaśālī..."
Her voice, tender yet rich, intertwined with the veena’s divine notes. Their music, like their love, became one—pure, harmonious, and eternal.
Saraswati’s sweet and melodious voice flowed like a divine stream. At that moment, Venkatanatha fully realized her expertise in music. Overjoyed, he played the veena with scholarly precision. Though hesitant at first, Saraswati gained confidence with her husband’s encouragement, following his music as she sang along.
At times, Venkatanatha played while Saraswati sang, their performance merging into a seamless harmony. The divine resonance of the veena intertwined with Saraswati’s enchanting voice, as if the celestial realm had descended upon them. Immersed in their world of devotion and music, they lost all sense of time.
After a while, Venkatanatha gently halted his veena and said, “That’s enough for today, Saras! Tomorrow, I will play for as long as you desire.”
Saraswati placed the veena aside, bowed her head at her husband’s feet, and said with tearful joy, “My beloved! You are truly the emperor of veena music. I have never heard such divine melody in my life. My very existence feels fulfilled today.”
Venkatanatha tenderly lifted her, brushing her curls as he said, “Saras, your singing has brought me immense bliss! You are a remarkable singer, a true artist. If you dedicate yourself to practice, none will match your prowess.”
Glowing with pride from her husband’s praise, Saraswati smiled. Then, realizing the time, she said, “Swami, it is almost time for Atha’s return. Tomorrow, you must delight me with your veena once more.”
Venkatanatha chuckled, “And you must quench my soul with your song!”
Saraswati blushed, responding with a playful smile, “As you command,” before gracefully stepping out of his chamber.
Later, as Gopikamba Devi had left for the purana recitation, Saraswati reappeared before her husband with a tray of milk and fruits. Venkatanatha, absorbed in reading a text, placed it aside and said, “Come, Saraswati.”
Tilting her head playfully, she asked, “Shall I bring the veena?”
Venkatanatha smiled. “Let us talk for a while first—then, the veena.”
Saraswati: What shall we talk about?
Venkatanatha: Is there ever a shortage of topics to discuss?
Saraswati: You spend the whole day debating meanings of words, but I am just a simple woman! How can I match your intellect?
Venkatanatha: Did I ever ask you to debate meanings? Our Ramachandra Acharya praised you as a scholar in music and literature. I have now witnessed your musical talent, but let me see how well-versed you are in literature. What have you studied?
Saraswati: My father taught me the foundational lessons in my childhood. Later, my mother was my guru in poetry, drama, and rhetoric.
Venkatanatha: (Surprised) What! Your mother? I had no idea Atha was so proficient in literature!
Saraswati: (Laughing) My father was so impressed by my mother’s knowledge of poetry and music that he chose her as his wife!
Venkatanatha: After your early lessons, what did you study next?
Saraswati: Kaumudi, Vruttaratnakara, Raghuvamsha, Kumarasambhava, Kiratarjuniya, parts of Champu Ramayana and Mahabharata, some portions of Naishadha and Geetagovinda, Dashakumaracharita, Kadambari up to the tale of Mahashveta, Prataprudriya Nataka, Chandraloka, and dramas like Ratnavali, Malavikagnimitra, and Shakuntala. By then, my marriage was arranged, and my studies came to a halt!
Venkatanatha: Hmm, that’s quite an extensive study in literature.
Saraswati: (Smiling) Swami, I wish to test you a little!
Venkatanatha: Oh! If Saraswati herself sets a test, what fate awaits me?
Saraswati: Oh no, I have no qualification to test you. I only wish to admire your brilliance!
Venkatanatha: (Laughing) I am delighted! Let the test begin!
Saraswati: "Sudhādhārā ati madhurā Śrī Sudhīndra Sarasvatī |
Atra kriyāpadaṁ vakṣuṁ avadhī brahmaṇo vayaḥ ||”
Tell me, what is the verb in this verse?
Venkatanatha: (Chuckling) Saras, you are quite clever! Repeat the first half of the verse once more.
Saraswati: “Sudhādhārā ati madhurā Śrī Sudhīndra Sarasvatī!”
Venkatanatha: Ah! You just answered your own question—the verb is right there!
Saraswati: (Amazed) When did I say the answer, Swami?
Venkatanatha: Didn’t you say “Sudhādhārāti” just now?
Saraswati: I thought I was clever for rearranging the verse into prose form, but you are truly brilliant! You asked me to recite the verse, and in doing so, you found the verb! How foolish of me—I completely forgot that you are a master of grammar!
Venkatanatha: Now it’s my turn. I’ll pose a question in verse. The answer is hidden within it. You must find it.
Saraswati: Alright, I’ll try my best.
Venkatanatha: “Kaṁ balavantaṁ na bādhate śītam?”
Saraswati: (Laughing) “Kambalavantaṁ na bādhate śītam!” (A person with a blanket does not suffer from the cold.)
Venkatanatha: Excellent, Saras! You are truly intelligent.
Saraswati: (Encouraged by the praise) Now, answer this: “Ke dārapoṣaṇaratāḥ?”
Venkatanatha: “Kedārapoṣaṇaratāḥ!” (Those engaged in cultivating fields.)
Saraswati: (In awe) Swami, solving these seems as easy as drinking water for you!
Venkatanatha: Saraswati, when I was just five or six years old, I had already memorized hundreds of such verses and witty riddles!
Saraswati: Now, let me pose another verse. Answer it correctly.
"Tamākhu patraṁ rājendra bhajamājñānadāyakam |
Tamākhu patraṁ rājendra bhajamājñānadāyakam ||"
Here, analyze the imperative (vidhi) and prohibitive (niṣedha) aspects and explain the meaning.
This verse is an example of śleṣa (double meaning). The first half is affirmative (vidhipara), encouraging action, while the second half is negative (niṣedhapara), discouraging it. Let's see how well you can interpret it.
Venkatanatha, recognizing the cleverness of the wordplay, skillfully explained the dual meanings of the verse, demonstrating his profound mastery of Sanskrit grammar and rhetoric.
Venkatanatha: The affirmative meaning (vidhipara artha):
"Tam ākhu patraṁ rājendra bhaja mājñāna dāyakam |"
O great king (rājendra), worship (bhaja) that which grants both prosperity and knowledge (ajñāna dāyakam). Worship Lord Ganesha (tam ākhupatram).
This is an example of saṁbhanga-śleṣa, where the meaning remains affirmative.
The prohibitive meaning (niṣedhapara artha):
"Tam ākhu patraṁ rājendra bhaja mājñāna dāyakam |"
O King, do not (mā bhaja) consume tobacco leaves (tamākhu patram), as it brings ignorance (ajñāna dāyakam).
This is an example of abhaṅga-śleṣa, where the meaning shifts to a prohibition.
Is this correct, my queen?
Venkatanatha:
Question: "Kaṁ balavantaṁ na bādhate śītam?"
(Who is not affected by the cold?)
Answer: "Kambalavantaṁ na bādhate śītam."
(One who has a blanket is not affected by the cold.)
Question: "Ke dāra poṣaṇa ratāḥ?"
(Who is engaged in supporting their wife?)
Answer: "Kedāra poṣaṇa ratāḥ."
(One who cultivates his land properly will also take care of his wife.)
This is the beauty of Sanskrit wordplay in saṁsāra-sāhitya!
Saraswati: Oh my! How quickly you answered!
Venkatanatha: Now it's my turn, Saraswati. I will give you a verse that contains seven riddles. The first six questions must be answered individually. The middle letter of each answer will together form the answer to the seventh question. The real challenge lies in answering the first six correctly! Shall I proceed?
Saraswati: Your explanation itself is making me nervous! But go ahead, I will try my best.
Venkatanatha:
"Kā vā ardhāṅgaṁ purāreḥ? Kiṭavara vilasad daṁṣṭrayā dhāri kā vā?
Ko vā śete'mburāśau? Yudhi dharaṇidhaḥ prāpyate ko'nu śūraiḥ?
Ko vā naivāsti lakṣmī-ditijamathana-yoḥ? Ko guruḥ nijharāṇāṁ?
Vācyaḥ ko vā vata-pativacana-gataiḥ madhyār varmunīndraḥ?"
Saraswati: First, let me interpret the meaning:
1. Who is the consort (ardhāṅga) of Rudra?
2. Who was lifted by the tusk of the Boar incarnation (Varāha)?
3. Who sleeps in the ocean?
4. What do valorous kings gain in battle?
5. What do both Lakshmi and Narayana not have?
6. Who is the preceptor of the gods?
7. Using the middle letter of each answer, which great sage (munīndra) is indicated?
Am I correct, Swami?
Venkatanatha, seeing Saraswati’s profound grasp of literary riddles, was delighted.
Venkatanatha: Well done, Saraswati! Now let’s see if you can find the correct answers to each question.
Saraswati: Understanding the meaning was easier than finding the answers! But I will try.
Venkatanatha: Who is the consort (ardhāṅga) of Rudra?
Saraswati: Pārvatī?
Venkatanatha: No, not that.
Saraswati: Bhavānī!
Venkatanatha: Correct! Next, who was lifted by the tusk of Varāha?
Saraswati: Dharanī!
Venkatanatha: No.
Saraswati: Wait… Medinī!
Venkatanatha: Yes, that is right. Now, who sleeps in the ocean?
Saraswati: Nārāyaṇaḥ!
Venkatanatha: No.
Saraswati: Vāsudevaḥ!
Venkatanatha: Not that either—it must be a three-syllable name.
Saraswati: Murāriḥ?
Venkatanatha: Well done! Now, what do valorous kings attain in battle?
Saraswati: Vijayaḥ (victory), isn’t it, Swami?
Venkatanatha: Exactly! Now answer this: What is absent in both Lakshmi and Narayana?
Saraswati: Viyogaḥ (separation).
Venkatanatha: Correct. And who is the preceptor of the gods?
Saraswati: Bṛhaspatiḥ!
Venkatanatha: No, it must be a three-syllable name.
Saraswati: Give me a moment… (thinks deeply) Vāgīśaḥ!
Venkatanatha: Ah! That is correct. Now, take the middle syllables of all six answers and tell me the name they form.
Saraswati:
1. Bhavānī → vā
2. Medinī → di
3. Murāriḥ → rā
4. Vijayaḥ → ja
5. Viyogaḥ → yo
6. Vāgīśaḥ → gī
If we arrange them together, they form Vādīrājayogī! The revered saint Śrī Vādīrāja Yogi!
Am I correct, Swami?
Venkatanatha, beaming with pride:
Saraswati! You are truly brilliant. Many learned men would struggle to deduce this so quickly, but you solved it with ease.
Saraswati, delighted: Without your guidance, how could I have figured it out? So tell me, Swami, did your wife win or lose in this test?
Venkatanatha, laughing: Has Saraswati Devi ever been defeated? You have won gloriously!
Saraswati: "Then give me a reward!" she said playfully.
As Venkatanatha reached out to pull her close by the shoulder, she gently slipped away, pretending to be annoyed.
Saraswati: "You are always mischievous, Swami!" she said, feigning anger.
Saraswati: "This verse is so fascinating! After hearing it, I have a desire."
Venkatanatha: "What is it, Saras?"
Saraswati: "I wish to read the play ‘Śākuntala’ with you. Will you teach it to me, Swami?"
Venkatanatha: "Didn’t you already study it with your mother?"
Saraswati: (blushing) "That’s true! But when you narrate it, it has a different charm, doesn’t it?"
Venkatanatha: (smiling gently) "Ah! You wish to study a romantic play with your beloved husband?"
Saraswati: "Is that wrong, Swami?"
Venkatanatha: "Not at all. But why only ‘Śākuntala’? There are other great plays as well."
Saraswati: "But isn’t ‘Śākuntala’ the most celebrated? ‘Among dramas, the most delightful is Śākuntala!’ – everyone says so!"
Venkatanatha: "Indeed! But there are other masterpieces filled with emotions and poetic beauty."
Saraswati: "Which one do you suggest?"
Venkatanatha: "Why not ‘Subhadrāpariṇaya’?"
Saraswati: "Who is the author of that play?"
Venkatanatha: "Saraswati! How could you not know? The very author is none other than Śrī Sudhīndra Tīrtha—our own revered family guru!"
Saraswati: (astonished) "Really? I had no idea! But Swami, can a sannyāsi compose a play rich in Śṛṅgāra Rasa (romantic sentiment)?"
Venkatanatha: "Read it, and you shall see! You will soon understand what a beautifully crafted play it is, overflowing with varied emotions!"
Saraswati: "When will you review it for me?"
Venkatanatha: "It’s almost time for Amma to return. Not today—tomorrow, we shall review it."
Saraswati: "I lose track of time when I’m with you, Swami. I always wish to be near you."
Venkatanatha: "Have I ever said no to that? ‘Siddhu na samīhitaṁ’—whatever pleases you, I accept!"
Saraswati, blushing, smiled and said, "Amma will be back soon—I should go now," and walked away with a playful glance.
Gopamma was meditating in the temple during the evening twilight. Saraswati, humming softly in a sweet tune, walked to and fro towards the temple several times. Gopamma noticed her restlessness and smiled knowingly. She understood the silent yearning of her daughter-in-law.
Calling Saraswati over, she watched as the young bride eagerly ran to her like a deer. "Did you call me, Amma?" she asked.
Gopamma: "Why are you wandering restlessly? Won’t you serve Venkatanatha his milk and fruits?"
Saraswati: "I was planning to give it to him after you left for the purana session, Amma."
Gopamma chuckled, "There is no purana session today, dear."
Hearing this, Saraswati’s face fell. "Oh! I didn’t know, Amma," she murmured.
Gopamma: "Come here, child," she said, gently calling her closer.
Saraswati obediently stepped forward. Holding her hands, Gopamma pulled her near, stroking her back affectionately while smiling.
Gopamma: "Saraswati! You love your husband dearly, don’t you?"
At these words, Saraswati’s cheeks turned crimson. She lowered her head and remained silent.
Gopamma lifted Saraswati’s chin gently. "Tell me, dear! Your very life breath is bound to your husband, isn't it?"
Saraswati: (blushing) "Amma, without realizing it, my heart is always drawn to him. Is it wrong to love him so much?"
Gopamma: (joyfully embracing her daughter-in-law) "Oh, my dear child! This is the natural virtue of a wife. The husband is the supreme deity to his wife, and her entire being is dedicated to his service. A wife’s heart must always remain immersed in her husband—this is the sacred teaching of our Sanatana Dharma! A wife is not merely a companion for pleasure; she is a partner in all of her husband’s endeavors, a co-traveler in his spiritual journey!"
"During the wedding, the Vedic sages and elders ordained the wife to be equal in all aspects—dharma (righteousness), artha (prosperity), and kāma (worldly fulfillment). That is why, at the time of marriage, the groom is commanded: ‘Dharme cha, arthe cha, kāme cha nāticharitam tayāyam’—meaning, ‘In righteousness, wealth, and love, she shall always be your equal companion.’ The marriage chariot moves on two wheels—the husband and wife. Only when they progress in harmony does the chariot of dharma reach its goal."
"That is why our scriptures proclaim: ‘Gṛhiṇī gṛham ucyate’—‘A home is not a home without a wife.’ She is its very foundation, its soul. This is the esteemed position given to a wife in our tradition. A husband and wife’s love should be guided by this ideal—only then does it become truly meaningful."
"Seeing your deep devotion to your husband fills my heart with immense joy. No matter the circumstances—happiness or sorrow, wealth or poverty—always remain his devoted companion, serving him with boundless love and reverence. This is my heartfelt blessing and advice to you, dear child!"
Saraswati was deeply moved by every word her mother-in-law spoke. The wisdom, kindness, and boundless affection in Gopamma’s heart overwhelmed her. With tears of gratitude, Saraswati embraced Gopamma, saying, “Amma, you are truly noble in character! I am blessed to have a mother-in-law like you.” She then bowed at Gopamma’s feet in reverence.
Gopamma’s eyes too welled up with tears. Stroking Saraswati’s head affectionately, she said, “Foolish girl, how emotional you are! Saraswati, Venkatanatha is the very breath of my life. Your father-in-law and I performed great penance and received him as a boon from Lord Srinivasa. He is no ordinary man—he is a great soul! By holding his hand, you have indeed been blessed with immense fortune. I understood your longing when I saw your restlessness. Every wife naturally yearns for her husband’s presence—it is only natural. You no longer need to wait for me to leave for the purana session. Go now, dear, and serve your husband his milk and fruits.”
Saraswati bowed once again, her heart overflowing with love. “Amma, I do not even know if my own mother loved me as much as you do. You are my true mother! I promise to follow the path you have shown me. Amma, one more thing—I wish to learn literature and veena from him. Will you speak to him on my behalf?”
Gopamma smiled warmly. “Of course, my dear. I will tell him myself.” She laughed softly and sent Saraswati off to her husband’s chamber before resuming her meditation.
When Saraswati entered, she found Venkatanatha pacing the room with the Shatapatha Brahmana in his hands. Seeing her, he stopped and smirked, “Oh ho! So, her highness has finally found the time to arrive? Why so late?”
Saraswati smiled and replied playfully, “I was delayed because I had to take Amma’s permission before coming. Forgive me.”
Raising an eyebrow in mock curiosity, Venkatanatha asked, “Oh? And what did Amma say?”
Saraswati grinned. “She loves me dearly. She thinks of you as the very breath of her life, and our happiness is all she desires. Today, she taught me how a husband and wife should live, and finally, she told me not to wait for her to leave for purana sessions—she said I should come to you whenever I wish.”
Venkatanatha smirked mischievously. “Ah, so you reported everything we talk about to Amma, did you?”
Saraswati blushed and lowered her gaze, pretending to be offended, while her husband chuckled at her reaction.
Saraswati chuckled softly. “Don’t be upset, my lord. Amma is sharp-witted; she understands everything even without us telling her. She enjoys our conversations. I must have done great deeds in my past life to have such a wonderful mother-in-law.”
Venkatanatha smiled. “Do you know what it means to have a mother like her? She is a divine being in human form. It makes me happy to see that you have earned her love. But you must always serve her with humility, obedience, and respect. Do you understand?”
Saraswati tilted her head playfully. “I don’t need you to tell me how to behave with my own mother. She is my mother, and I am her daughter. There is no room for you between us!”
Venkatanatha laughed. “Oh ho! Is that so? And since when have you two become mother and daughter?”
Saraswati smiled sweetly. “From the moment she taught me how to live happily with you.”
Venkatanatha smirked. “Alright, alright! Let’s see how long this lasts.”
Saraswati’s eyes sparkled with conviction. “For as long as I live, you won’t be able to break the bond between us!”
Venkatanatha gazed at her fondly. “Saras, today, I am truly happy.”
Saraswati raised an eyebrow mischievously. “And what am I supposed to do about that?”
Venkatanatha chuckled. “For now, just stay quiet.”
Saraswati teased, “Why such anger? If you keep getting upset and teasing me like this, I’ll just refuse to tell you what Amma asked me to convey.”
Venkatanatha’s curiosity piqued. “What did Amma ask?”
Blushing, Saraswati hid her face behind her hands and whispered, “She said she wants a grandson!”
Venkatanatha beamed with delight. “See? Amma has more sense than you do!”
Saraswati playfully retorted, “Oh, go on, Swami! You always find a way to tease me.”
Laughing, the couple then shared the fruits and milk, enjoying the sweetness of their love and companionship.
After chewing the tamboola, Venkatanatha passionately analyzed and explained the literary brilliance of Sri Sudhindra's Subhadra Parinaya drama, detailing its aesthetic elements, poetic beauty, and philosophical depth. Saraswati, overjoyed, expressed her desire to read the play and learn more. She also conveyed her eagerness to master the veena.
From the next day, Venkatanatha, delighted by her enthusiasm, began teaching her Subhadra Parinaya while also guiding her in veena practice. With her sharp intellect and dedication, Saraswati diligently pursued both studies. Within a few months, she not only completed the play but also displayed remarkable proficiency in veena playing. Their marital life flourished in harmony, embodying the saying, "Kāvyashāstra vinodena kālo gacchati dhīmatām", meaning, "The wise spend their time immersed in literature and philosophy."
One afternoon, as Venkatanatha sat in the courtyard conversing with his mother and wife, a learned scholar known to him arrived. He brought devastating news—the revered Sri Vijayeendra Guru had departed for the heavenly abode. He had just returned from attending the grand Maha Samaaradhane (final rites and homage) and shared the details of the proceedings.
The news struck like a thunderbolt, leaving the entire household in profound grief. Overcome with sorrow, Venkatanatha was utterly devastated. Tears streamed down his face as he recalled his guru’s immense scholarship, unwavering support for scholars, unparalleled kindness, and the deep faith he had placed in his disciples, especially in Venkatanatha’s growth and success. He wept like a child, grieving the loss of his great mentor. Even Gopamma and Saraswati couldn’t hold back their tears, their hearts weighed down by the sorrowful void left by the guru’s departure.
After a while, Gopamma comforted her son, attempting to console him. But Venkatanatha, still grief-stricken, said, “We are now orphans, Amma. We must cleanse ourselves, offer our respects to our revered guru, and dedicate this night to his memory with fasting, scripture recitation, veena recitals, and bhajans as a tribute.”
The entire household took ritualistic baths. Venkatanatha, observing austerity, engaged in the recitation of Bhagavad Gita, mantras, and hymns. That night, alongside his mother and wife, he played the veena and led devotional songs composed by great enlightened saints, immersing himself in divine remembrance. The next day, after performing their morning rituals—ablutions, sandhya vandana (daily prayers), japa (meditative chanting), and deva pooja (worship)—they partook in the meals.
As time passed, the pain of Sri Vijayeendra Guru’s departure began to settle, though the deep respect and love for him remained unshaken. Thus, months passed, as life gradually resumed its course.
One day, Venkatanatha’s father-in-law, Vasudevacharya’s cousin, Keshavacharya, arrived and invited them to celebrate Deepavali at their house. After consulting with his mother, Venkatanatha set out joyfully with his mother and wife. Upon arrival, they were delighted to find that his elder brother, sister-in-law, and nephew, Venkatanarayana, had also come from Ramachandrapura. The reunion after a long time filled everyone with immense joy. Vasudevacharya and his wife were overjoyed to see their son-in-law and daughter. The grand Deepavali celebrations lasted for five days, after which they bade farewell to their son-in-law with great affection.
From there, Venkatanatha and his family spent four days at his elder brother’s house before seeking permission and heading toward Kumbakonam.
Upon reaching Kumbakonam, they first bathed in the Kaveri River and then proceeded to the Brindavana (memorial shrine) of Sri Vijayeendra Tirtha. The moment Venkatanatha saw the Brindavana, tears streamed down his face as he grieved, “Gurudeva! You have left us orphaned and joined the divine feet of Hari! Who will guide us now?”
After some time, when his sorrow had slightly subsided, he circumambulated the Brindavana, offered his salutations, and received the sacred water (padodaka) and blessed rice (mantrakshate) from the temple priests. Then, they proceeded to Sri Matha (the monastery).
By then, the first meal of the day had already concluded. Seeing Venkatanatha, Narasimha Acharya warmly welcomed him and arranged for their meal. After the meal, he took them to meet Sri Sudhindra Tirtha.
Upon seeing Venkatanatha, the Guru warmly welcomed him, saying, “Come, Acharya.” Venkatanatha prostrated before the Guru and expressed his sorrow over the passing of Sri Vijayeendra Tirtha, shedding tears as he spoke. Tears welled up in Sri Sudhindra Tirtha’s eyes as well. “The great luminary of Dvaita Siddhanta has set. We have lost an irreplaceable scholar. Above all, we have become orphans. But it was God’s will, and we have no choice but to accept it,” he lamented.
Sri Sudhindra Tirtha then shared, “Even on the day before his passing, your revered Guru was speaking about you. He wished for you to study under me, to be established as a great scholar of our institution, and to restart the vidyapeetha (seat of learning) at Kaveripatnam under your leadership. He had instructed us to entrust this responsibility to you.” Saying this, he handed Venkatanatha a pouch containing a thousand varahas (gold coins).
Venkatanatha was taken aback and humbly asked, “What is this, Gurudeva?”
The Guru replied, “This is the Guru’s command—your annual stipend as a chief scholar.”
Venkatanatha, with great humility, responded, “Your divine blessings are all I seek.”
But Sri Sudhindra Tirtha insisted, “It is the Guru’s will, and it is our duty to honor it.” Accepting this as Guruprasada (a sacred offering from the Guru), Venkatanatha respectfully bowed and accepted it.
They continued discussing various matters for a long time, after which the Guru instructed Pandit Narasimha Acharya to arrange for Venkatanatha’s journey to Kaveripatnam. The next morning, Narasimha Acharya hosted Venkatanatha and his family at his house, provided them an early meal, and then arranged for their departure in a Matha carriage.
Thus, with the blessings of his Gurus and the weight of great responsibilities upon him, Venkatanatha embarked on his journey to Kaveripatnam.