A Friend’s Urgent Request:

With the warmth and familiarity of a dear friend, the naiyika confides in her sakhi, “My dear companion, my yearning to reunite with Him only grows stronger. Please, hasten and bring Him to me!” She reminisces about their previous encounters, cherishing the memories of their time together during the vibrant spring season.

A Soul’s Quest for Enlightenment:

Varnam is based on the concept of the nayika awaiting union with the nayaka who is philosophically considered as Supreme Being, whose representative on earth is the king or lord. As Balasaraswathi points out, “The composer of a Varnam might have dedicated it to a prince or a noble man. But as far as the dancer is concerned, the hero can only be the King of Kings, the Lord of the wide world. These feelings should be universalized into aspects in divinity and not remain the limited experience of an insignificant human being.” It follows that the nayika expresses her desire for union with the nayaka, who is the epitome of perfection and an inspiration to onlooker. Then, here the sakhi is the personification of the guru, whose guidance is required for spiritual growth. Through this Varnam, the naiyika’s fervent plea embodies the universal human quest for spiritual guidance and connection with the divine. As she seeks the sakhi’s assistance, she acknowledges the transformative power of her relationship with Lord Shiva, the embodiment of enlightenment and wisdom.

A Celebration of Devotion and Friendship:

Swami Alaithodi Va is a romantic expression of the sacred bond between the naiyika, her sakhi, and Lord Shiva. This enchanting Varnam not only honors the depth of their connection but also celebrates the power of friendship, devotion, and the unwavering pursuit of spiritual growth.