কৰতল কমল কমল দল নয়ন।
ভব দব দহন গহন-বন শয়ন ॥
নপৰ নপৰ পৰ সতৰত গময়।
সভয় মভয় ভয় মমহৰ সততয়॥
খৰতৰ বৰ শৰ হত দশ বদন।
খগচৰ নগধৰ ফনধৰ শয়ন॥
জগদঘ মপহৰ ভৱ ভয় তৰণ।
পৰ পদ লয় কৰ কমলজ নয়ন॥
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Karatala kamala kamaladala nayana |
Bhavadava dahana gahana vana sayana ||
Napara napara para satarata gamaya |
Sabhaya mabhaya bhaya mamahara satataya ||
Kharatara varasara hatadasa vadana |
Khagachara nagadhara fanadhara sayana ||
Jagadagha mapahara bhavabhaya tarana |
Parapada layakara kamalaja nayana ||
Karatala Kamala Kamala Dala Nayana is a revered devotional poem composed by Srimanta Sankardeva, a celebrated saint and reformer from Assam. Karatala Kamala lyrics is This lyrical masterpiece, written in Assamese, is considered one of Sankardeva’s earliest compositions—reportedly created when he was just 12 years old. The poem holds immense significance in Assamese culture and Vaishnavite spirituality for its profound expression of devotion and poetic beauty.
Origins and Unique Composition
Karatala Kamala Kamala Dala Nayana was composed by Sankardeva soon after he began his formal education, even before he had fully learned the Assamese vowels. Remarkably, the poem contains no swarasihnas (vowel markers), lending it a compressed yet melodious structure. This early work showcases Sankardeva’s literary genius and deep spiritual insight at a tender age, earning it the distinction of being his first “masterpiece”.
Meaning and Themes
The poem is a devotional address to Lord Krishna, glorified as the lotus-eyed deity whose palm resembles a lotus flower. The imagery throughout the poem evokes Krishna’s divine attributes and his role as the protector and savior from worldly suffering. It highlights Krishna’s qualities such as:
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The beautiful lotus-like eyes and palms
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The dispeller of worldly pain and fear
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The serene sleeper in forests and protector from demons
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The wielder of powerful weapons and the rider of Garuda (mythical bird)
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The uplifter of the Govardhan mountain
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The auspicious refuge who grants solace and ultimate bliss.
Text and Translation
The poem opens with the famous lines:
“Karatala kamala kamaladala nayana,
Bhavadava dahana gahana vana sayana…”
Translated, it means:
“Thy palm is like the lotus; Thine eyes are like the lotus petals.
O extinguisher of all worldly pain, O serene reposer in deep forests…”
This lyrical composition continues to describe the divine protection and grace of Lord Krishna, expressing the devotee’s reverence and longing for spiritual refuge.
Cultural and Spiritual Importance
Karatala Kamala lyrics is not just a poetic work but a spiritual hymn that has inspired generations of devotees in Assam and beyond. It laid the foundation for Sankardeva’s later contributions to the Vaishnavite movement, including his compositions of the “Borgeet” devotional songs. It also exemplifies the power of faith and early education in shaping a saint’s life and works.
Musical Renditions and Modern Usage
The poem has been set to various tunes over time and is often sung in traditional Assamese Khunlar or devotional music sessions. Its soft and melodious verses continue to evoke deep spiritual feelings and are commonly performed during religious gatherings and festivals dedicated to Krishna.youtube
Conclusion
Karatala Kamala Kamala Dala Nayana remains a treasured gem in Assamese and Indian devotional literature. This brief yet profound poem beautifully encapsulates devotion, poetic elegance, and spiritual fervor. Its composition by a young Sankardeva reflects the timeless ability of art and faith to inspire hearts across centuries Karatala Kamala lyrics.
By understanding and appreciating this precious work, one not only gains insight into Assam's rich cultural heritage but also experiences the universal message of divine love and grace that transcends time and place.
