Translated from the Tamil by Padma Amarnaath
Translator’s note: His poetic work draws from the ancient concept of Ainthinai-the five landscapes depicted in the Tamil Sangam literature-each representing a holistic view of life through their flora, fauna, seasons, deities, and human activities. While Tamil literature has evolved over the years, embracing modernism, Maharasan remains steadfast in weaving the deep-rooted traditions of the Tamil land into his contemporary poetry.
1.
On the emptiness-filled
shore of the silent pond,
the deeply buried roots remain
like a flute,
held tight by the damp soil.
Though no holes are visible,
the roots play their music,
the branches nod,
and flowers cascade
as the wild plants stand smiling.
Melodies from the roots played by the soil,
spreads across the forest, defining its fragrance.
2.
In the leftover
dusty fields of barren land
amidst palmyra stalks,
the sown remnants of a bird’s belief
now stand tall, like a banyan firmly rooted.
To sway its young chicks
the banyan stretches its aerial roots,
hanging down like lifelines,
reaching deep into the earth.
In the pale sky
birds search for their way,
but when they return to nest,
no humans are near.
Alone, with no one around,
the land mother lies orphaned,
all by herself.
3.
Tall trees stand
as plants and creepers surround and cover,
dry leaves and twigs lay piled afar
when bamboo stem strikes in friction,
that dared to play with fire.
Rain came as gentle showers,
that bestowed during the dark.
Slowly teaching the art
of halting the flames
of huge blaze that caught and spread.
4.
As it passes by
with a fleeting glance,
it softly carries drifting desires,
like enchanted moments well-versed in their craft,
joyfully dancing across
as past memories tumble
from the faded pages of a diary.
On that day of searing rage,
freshly sprouted leaves
consumed by the roaring flames,
were turned to ashes.
Smeared with ashes,
they rose from memories,
those spittle swallowed days.
5.
A path with vanished footprints
that bears the toil and life of ancestors,
stretches long, far, and wide.
The mind-bird, sheds tears as it soars high,
losing itself
and slowly shedding,
feather by feather.
The time of deluge
stands apart and observes,
seeing the impact of life
with a tender smile.
(Note: The above poems are from the collection “Words Sprouted In The Land”)
About the Author
Maharasan has authored books on Tamil society, art, literature, education, history and culture. He currently works as a teacher in a Government run school. He also participated actively in the team that was instrumental in the creation of a dictionary of theatrical terminology in the Department of Drama, Tamil University, Thanjavur.
About the Translator
Padma Amarnaath is an accomplished author, speaker, and translator. As a blogger, Padma shares her insights in her blog on topics such as mindfulness, women empowerment, self-love, and social responsibilities. She has translated many modern Tamil works into English.
