The is a deeply moving Tamil devotional hymn in praise of Goddess Kamakshi, the presiding deity of the historic city of Kanchipuram. A "Virutham" is a unique style of poetry in Carnatic music. Unlike a song with a fixed beat (tala), a Virutham is sung freely, often in multiple ragas (melodic scales), allowing the performer to improvise rhythmically in the moment while focusing entirely on the emotional weight of the lyrics.
As I prepare to recite this sacred poetic hymn in praise of Goddess Kamakshi, who resides in the auspicious city of Kanchipuram, I seek the protection of the two feet of the elephant-faced Lord Ganesha, who is adorned with five arms and resides in the heart of Lord Shiva (the great God who wears the snake and the crescent moon). kamakshi virutham lyrics in english
The composition of the Kamakshi Virutham is widely attributed to , though some versions of the poem are considered ancient with an unknown author. Regardless of its exact origin, the hymn is celebrated for its lyrical beauty and emotional range. It consists of eleven verses , each culminating in the powerful refrain (known as a patham ): “Azhakaana Kanchiyil pugazhaaka vaazhndhidum Ammai Kamakshi Umaye.” This refrain translates to: “Oh Mother Kamakshi, who is also known as Uma, who lives gloriously in the pretty town of Kanchipuram”. The is a deeply moving Tamil devotional hymn
(This verse mixes Tamil and Sanskrit – common in Viruthams.) As I prepare to recite this sacred poetic
Pollatha pillayai irundhalum pethra thai puthigalai chollavillayo, Pei pillayaanalum thaan pethra pillaiyai piriyamai valarkkavillayo...
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The is a powerful devotional poem of 11 verses dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi of Kanchipuram . It is composed as a deeply emotional conversation between the devotee and the Divine Mother, seeking her protection and grace. Lyrics Transliteration (English)