Introduction
In the tapestry of Indian devotional music, the stotram "Chellinthumu" stands as a radiant thread, woven with profound devotion and enchanting melodies. This hymn, dedicated to the divine couple Vishnu and Lakshmi, has captivated hearts and souls for centuries.
About Stotram Chellam
The stotram "Chellinthumu" is attributed to the great Vaishnava saint and poet, Bhadrachala Ramadas. Written in the Telugu language, the song depicts the divine manifestation of Vishnu as Sri Rama and his consort, Lakshmi, as Sita Devi. It is a poignant plea for their grace and blessings, filled with heartfelt emotion and spiritual surrender.
Lyrics and Meaning
The opening lines of the stotram set the devotional tone:
Chellinthumu kovelane chennilo **
Seyyave vaddanuro tammayu ninu
Rave charulu nayana**
(Translation: Oh Lord, who dwells in the heart, please grant me the boon to always think of you. Your radiant form is a feast for my eyes.)
The verses that follow paint a vibrant picture of Vishnu and Lakshmi's divine attributes and their compassionate nature. Ramadas expresses his boundless love and longing for them:
Deva devuduvu ninnu, Devi
Devulakta devi ninne **
Ninnu chusina **
Janulu punyamulu seduru **
Manasu unnappudu tanutaku**
(Translation: You are the God of gods, and Devi, you are the goddess of goddesses. Those who behold you are blessed with merit. When your presence enters the heart, it sanctifies the entire body.)
Devotional Significance
The stotram "Chellinthumu" is considered one of the most important devotional songs in the Vaishnava tradition. It is often sung during puja (worship rituals), bhajan (devotional singing), and other religious ceremonies. Believers attribute immense spiritual benefits to reciting or listening to this stotram, including:
Musical Composition
The stotram "Chellinthumu" is typically set to a soulful melody in the Shankarabarana raga. Its enchanting tune and rhythmic flow make it a delight to listen to, both for devotees and music lovers alike. The song has been performed and recorded by numerous renowned singers and musicians, including M.S. Subbulakshmi, K.J. Yesudas, and Ravi Shankar.
Table 1: Key Phrases in "Chellinthumu"
Telugu Phrase | English Translation | Significance |
---|---|---|
Chellinthumu | Dwell in the heart | Emphasizes the intimate connection between Vishnu and the devotee |
Chennilo | Always | Expresses the constant longing for the divine |
Seyyave | Please grant | Implores the Lord's grace and favor |
Ninnu | You | Direct address to the deity, conveying devotion and intimacy |
Dharmamu | Righteousness | Highlights Vishnu's role as the protector of virtue |
Dayanidhi | Ocean of compassion | Praises Lakshmi's compassionate nature |
Stories and Anecdotes
The stotram "Chellinthumu" has inspired countless stories and anecdotes that illustrate its transformative power. Here are two humorous tales that carry valuable lessons:
Story 1: The Parrot and the Thief
In the town of Bhadrachalam, a parrot lived in the temple dedicated to Lord Rama. One day, a thief entered the temple intending to steal the deity's ornaments. However, as soon as he touched the parrot's cage, the bird began reciting the stotram "Chellinthumu" at the top of its voice. The thief, startled and overwhelmed by the divine sound, dropped the ornaments and fled the scene.
Lesson: The power of devotion can protect against evil and guide us toward righteousness.
Story 2: The Blind Man's Vision
A blind man named Kanakayya lived in the same town. He was a devoted disciple of Bhadrachala Ramadas and would often sing "Chellinthumu" with great fervor. Despite his disability, Kanakayya's unwavering faith and love for Vishnu sustained him. One day, as he sang the stotram with intense emotion, he experienced an extraordinary vision. He saw Lord Rama and Sita Devi standing before him, blessing him with their divine presence.
Lesson: Devotion can overcome physical limitations and bring us closer to the divine.
Tips and Tricks for Singing "Chellinthumu"
Step-by-Step Guide to Singing "Chellinthumu"
Table 2: Benefits of Singing "Chellinthumu"
Benefit | Description |
---|---|
Spiritual: Deepens devotion, purifies the mind and heart, and brings closer to the divine. | |
Emotional: Alleviates stress, brings joy and peace, and fosters a sense of connection. | |
Health: Promotes physical and mental well-being, reduces anxiety, and improves sleep. | |
Community: Fosters a sense of unity and belonging among devotees. | |
Cultural: Preserves and celebrates the rich tradition of Indian devotional music. |
Table 3: Notable Recordings of "Chellinthumu"
Artist | Album | Year Released |
---|---|---|
M.S. Subbulakshmi | Bhakti Ranjanam | 1950s |
K.J. Yesudas | Nama Sangeetham | 1980s |
Ravi Shankar | Collaborations | 1990s |
Hariharan | Sri Venkateswara Suprabhatam | 2000s |
Unnikrishnan | Bhadrachala Ramadasu | 2010s |
Conclusion
The stotram "Chellinthumu" is a timeless masterpiece of devotional music that continues to inspire and uplift countless hearts. Its poignant lyrics, enchanting melody, and profound spiritual significance have made it a beloved song in the Vaishnava tradition. By singing, listening to, and reflecting on the words of this stotram, we can deepen our connection with the divine and experience the transformative power of devotion.
May the grace of Vishnu and Lakshmi always be upon us.
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