ABOUT THE POEM:
The poem KING’S CELESTIAL CONQUEST is a translated version of a poem from Tamil Literature. This poem tells the story of a ruler named Cheraladan, driven by an insatiable ambition for glory and expansion. He resents sharing the world with other rulers and leads his mighty army to conquer new territories, considering his kingdom too small. Despite his unyielding will and military conquests, Cheraladan is characterized by boundless charity. The poem contrasts his accomplishments with the celestial sphere, emphasizing its limitations and the transient nature of its dominance during the day, symbolizing the fleeting nature of earthly power compared to the enduring legacy of benevolence.
The poem unfolds the narrative of Cheraladan, a ruler whose aspirations soar to unparalleled heights. Fueled by an unquenchable thirst for glory, he harbors a resentment towards sharing dominion over the world with other rulers. Driven by ambition, Cheraladan perceives his kingdom as confining, prompting him to march forth with a formidable army, conquering new territories to expand his reign.
Amidst the martial fervor, Cheraladan's character reveals layers of complexity. While his will is unyielding and his military conquests resounding, there is a remarkable aspect to his persona – an expansive and boundless charity that mirrors the magnanimity of his ambitions. Cheraladan emerges as a ruler whose legacy blends the prowess of conquest with the grace of benevolence.
In a poetic juxtaposition, the celestial sphere, representative of the cosmic order, is invoked for comparison. The swift-moving orb of heaven, despite its celestial grandeur, is portrayed as having limitations. It retreats when the moon ascends, hides behind hills, and, for all its daytime splendor, relinquishes its sway with the onset of night.
The contrast between Cheraladan's earthly endeavors and the celestial sphere serves as a metaphorical reflection on power, emphasizing the transient nature of human dominion in contrast to the enduring legacy of generosity and benevolence. The poem, rich in imagery and thematic depth invites contemplation on the dual facets of ambition and compassion within the context of worldly pursuits.
KING’S CELESTIAL CONQUEST
In quest of unmatched glory bold,
He disdained to share the globe,
With fellow rulers, he'd contend,
Ambition's flame his heart did robe.
Driven by a lofty aspiration,
To expand his realm's foundation,
Deeming it a space too small,
He marched with might, heeding the call.
Conqueror of lands, his army strong,
Unyielding will, charity prolong,
Cheraladan, a name renowned,
In glory and benevolence crowned.
Compare thee, swift celestial sphere,
Moving orb that knows no peer,
Yet confined within night's embrace,
Retreating when the moon takes place.
Behind hills, you shyly wane,
For all your celestial domain,
Daytime's reigns your sole command,
Night unveils a different strand.
