Kurai Ondrum Illai Carnatic Song

Kurai Ondrum Illai: Beyond a Devotional Song

“Kurai Ondrum Illai” is not just a devotional song; it’s the essence of a deep philosophy. The great singer and musical genius, Bharat Ratna Smt. M.S. Subbulakshmi, inspired by Kalki Sadasivam, composed and sang this song, captivating the hearts of devotees worldwide. This song holds a unique place in the spiritual world of Tamil Nadu.

“Kurai Ondrum Illai” translates to “I have no shortcomings.” However, a deep faith shines behind these lines. It conveys that even amidst the various challenges, sorrows, and deficiencies in life, if one surrenders completely to the Lord, the mind will feel no lack.

Kurai Ondrum Illai Song Lyrics in English

Pallavi – Ragam: Sivarajani

I have no shortcomings, O Kannan, the hidden one
I have no shortcomings, O Kannan
I have no shortcomings, O Govinda…
I have no shortcomings, O Kannan, the hidden one
I have no shortcomings, O Kannan
I have no shortcomings, O Govinda…

Anupallavi – Ragam: Sivarajani

You stand unseen, O Kannan
Even though you stand unseen, for me
There are no shortcomings, O Kannan, the hidden one…

Saranam 1 – Ragam: Sivarajani

With Venkatēsan here to grant all wishes
There is nothing else to wish for, O Kannan, the hidden one
Manivanna Malaiyappa Govinda Govinda…

Saranam 2 – Ragam: Kapi

You stand behind a screen, O Kannan
Kannan, you stand behind a screen
Only the wise who recite the Vedas can see you
You stand behind a screen, O Kannan
Only the wise who recite the Vedas can see you
Yet, I have no shortcomings, O Kannan
Yet, I have no shortcomings, O Kannan…
O Varada, who stands as a stone on the hill
O Varada, who stands as a stone on the hill
I have no shortcomings, O Kannan, the hidden one
I have no shortcomings, O Kannan, the hidden one
Manivanna Malaiyappa Govinda Govinda…

Saranam 3 – Ragam: Sindhubaairavi

Taking pity on the Kali Yuga, softening into a stone
You stand steadfast in the temple, O Kesava
Taking pity on the Kali Yuga, softening into a stone
You stand steadfast in the temple, O Kesava
I have no shortcomings, O Kannan, the hidden one…
O Malaiyappa whom none can deny…
O Malaiyappa whom none can deny…
With the Mother, the ocean of mercy,
Ever standing on your chest to bestow
What lack can I ever have?
What lack can I ever have?
I have no shortcomings at all, O Kannan, the hidden one
I have no shortcomings at all, O Kannan, the hidden one
Manivanna, Malaiyappa…
Govinda Govinda
Govinda Govinda
Govinda Govinda…

The Philosophy of the Song

• Doctrine of Surrender (Saranagathi Tattvam): This song emphasizes the importance of complete self-surrender to God. It speaks of the unwavering faith that even if Kannan is unseen, He is with us.
• Path of Devotion (Bhakti Margam): The song shows how one can find bliss based on pure faith, without wealth or possessions. By saying “there is nothing else to wish for,” it conveys that devotion alone is sufficient.
• God’s Mercy (Iraivanin Karunai): This song beautifully describes the mercy of Tirupati’s Ezhumalaiyan (Lord Venkateswara) and how He stands as a stone for His devotees. The belief that with the Mother, who is an ocean of mercy (Mahalakshmi), always on His chest, no shortcomings can arise, is expressed here.

This song, sung in the divine voice of M.S. Subbulakshmi, brings a sense of peace and tranquility to the morning. It is played daily in many homes, enhancing the spiritual feeling.

When you listen to this song, instead of just thinking about the lyrics, you can try to feel its deep meaning and connect with the Lord. That is the true benefit of this song.

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Umamaheswari Sivanesan

Vanakkam! I'm Uma, currently living in Chennai. I hold a Master’s degree in Chemistry (M.Sc.), but my true passion lies in spirituality and the rich cultural heritage of Tamil traditions.

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