CAME THOMAS Ka.Naa.Su’s Novel THOMAS VANDHAAR Translated into English by latha ramakrishnan CHAPTER 2

CAME THOMAS

 Ka.Naa.Su’s Novel THOMAS VANDHAAR

Translated into English by latha ramakrishnan

 CHAPTER 2

My name is Vadhoolan.

Many a time have I wondered as to why I was named Vadhoolan and called so. There are also those who address me as Vadhoolaa, Vaadhoo and ‘Thambi’ and so on.

I do not like this name in any form. There was one called Vadhoola Maharishi. That I have come in that lineage is one reason.  Whether any such person called Vadhoola Maharishi really existed – that itself is not known. As far as I know, nowhere in Vedas, Upanishads or in any proven and accepted origins [rishimoolangal] we come across any such name. But, father says that as I have come in this lineage he has given me this name. My father is not at all sensible, I think.

By now you would have guessed that I am born a Brahmin. That those who make much ado about Gothram, lineage and all are mostly Brahmins, is  a known fact to all.

Many a seer and others have asked the question whether ‘Brahminicality’ comes by mere birth itself. Those great sages, born of Upanishads, the Jain Munipangas called Men of Religion and Theerthangaas, Gauthama Buddha have all asked this question and given various answers.

I asked father. There came no answer from him to this query. Anger alone erupted. I can’t regard him as a Brahmin. When this being the case, how can I regard myself as one..?

“Hei you, why are you thus roaming around with all and sundry, leaving off the learning and chanting of Vedas? How are you going to earn a good name in this world and live?”, - so asks my father in response.

When he says that I wander in the company of all and sundry, I know who he has in mind.

In the vicinity I have only one dear friend. It is said that he is born of some ‘low-caste’. Like my name is given to me after my ‘gothram’ he is also given his name after his caste and creed. Except him, I have no other close companion. Being and chatting with him, as if observing as to how many varieties of human forms and faces are there in people, going around the market-place, bazaar-road, places inhabited by human species has become almost a full-time job for the past two or three years. I derive a sense of satisfaction out of this.

How come such a friendship and bondage has come into being, is indeed a surprise even to my own self. He, this Valluvan, is five or six years elder to me. As for me, I am a complete stranger when it comes to Learning. Somehow I would recite by heart those manthras and slokas taught by father, rhythmically.  Don’t know their meanings. But, somehow, all the manthras and slokas are known to Valluvan. Not only that, he knows their meanings too. When I told this to my father, do you know what he said? “Scoundrel, sinner he is, learning manthras and Sanskrit slokas. Is he telling their meanings too? He is bound to go astray. And you, who have joined hands with him will also follow suit”, said he.

I have no wish to become ‘something’ in father’s interpretation of those terms. Not worrying about this, I am roaming around, with Valluvan.

When we two go along the streets, if someone happens to see us they take only him to be a Brahmin and me as a no-Brahmin. I have no regrets at this. In fact, with his knowledge, humility, mental-strength and good habits, I too consider and regard Valluvan as a true Brahmin! Valluvan never uses the term ‘Brahmin’. He would say ‘Andhanan’. Only he who, not by birth but through his conduct, is a noble soul, is Andhanan – says my good friend.

That my grandfather never deviated from the path of Virtue and Morality, they say. I do not know that. But, my father is an amoral person in all aspects. Particularly, in his lust for another man’s woman, he has no equal at all. Indeed there is some magic in him which lures wives of other men.

Some men who didn’t fear this power of his – the husbands of some of the women lured by him – had given him sound thrashing too, to weaken his alluring effect. My father’s mother – even while being in her death-bed, called me and, before her life-breath stopped, said: “don’t go astray like your father, Vaadhoolaa….this is my only prayer…”

What for people are born? Why do they die?

I asked my father.

“Who can say ‘why’ and ‘what’? we should never ask why. Fate. God has destined so” – replied father.

The next day I asked Valluvan the same question. “Man starts moving towards Death right from the moment he is born. We refer to Utility[Use] and Time, as Time. We should live our Life, not feeling sad whenever Death confronts us. The use of your Birth need not be known to others. There is no necessity that it should be known to you”.

In a way this was also an unsatisfactory answer only. For the query ‘why’ there was no answer. But, it seemed to give, to some extent, the meaning of both Birth and Death.

“My father says it is fate” – said I.

“True, there is that thing called Fate too.  It is fate that decides the quality and course of Life, quality of Death and that which goes beyod Death”, said Valluvan.

I always think that my friend Valluvan lives in a world which is built extensively of words, where nothing else is real. If he begins to converse, sweet beautiful words come out of him. All those words are familiar too. Apart from Sanskrit slokas and manthraas, the language of Thamizh too comes to Valluvan in a spontaneous and beautiful manner. Where did he learn? When? I asked him directly.

Easily, without getting angry, he answered. “Thamizh comes to me by constantly listening and hearing my mother speak. I learnt Sanskrit from Aaladhi Naayanaar. From the ‘jewish’ merchant Ezekial who has come to stay in Mylapore I am learning about the language Hebrew and the people’s habits and behaviour. I am now going to Ezekial’s house only. If you want you can also come”.

To Ezekial’s house? Will they allow Valluvan to enter into the brand new mansion? I had stood facing it, gazing at it with awe and wonder. A huge, brand new bungalow. During day time its entrance would always be crowded with people going in and coming out of the mansion.

At the gates, there are always some four or five ‘vasthaadhs’[men of gigantic built] standing, guarding the palatial building. Goods and articles from very many a land, costing too high, are forever brought to the bungalow and taken out of it. At least one half of those boats which come sailing in the Sea for fifteen to thirty ‘Naazhigai’ a day and stand in a row providing a pleasing sight are said to belong to Ezekiel. I have heard them say that some two or three ships which would stand there with the anchor laid and start sailing with their sail spread that push them forward with the help of the wind also belonged to him.

There has spread a rumour in our locality that, for all  these affluence he is comparatively a new-comer to this land and to the filed of business and that when he came here he had but only a little money with him and that, with the help of kith and kin and fellow Hebrews in various countries he bought and sold things, earning profits and thus, within  a year he had become a millionaire. When he came he had come alone only. But now he has a family. He has got two sons and three daughters. I know that the girls with their large eyes and sharp nose look very beautiful, and, the two sons, tall and with looks and activities that are peculiar to the Hebrews are slowly turning into big-shots in our place.   One son’s – the eldest _ name is David. Don’t know the name of the second son. Likewise, I know the name of one of the daughters. The youngest called Miriam is very brave. Without any reservation or hesitation as to what to speak to whom she would easily pick up a conversation with almost anyone. In this area, women driving a vehicle is a very common sight. Tying two horses, as is the existing fashion of our place, in the cart when she was going alone one day, to bring someone from somewhere, the local thug called Maadan, thinking that a sixteen year old girl, being alone was a good chance not to be missed, blocked the way and had said something, it seems. Whether Miriam could understand his Thamizh or not – she could interpret the motive behind his action. She brought him down with the help of the horse-ship and beat him black and blue, leaving him bleeding all over. There was none in our place who didn’t praise her for her courage. This incident had earned Ezekial more name and fame than all his wealth could ever hope to offer him. The title like tag that he is Miriam’s father has enhanced his pride and glory.

Significantly, wherever and on whatever occasion Vaadhoolan, i.e., me, happens to see the girl called Miriam, his heart-beats would gain momentum. There arises in me a different kind of momentum of the heartbeats when I see Valluvan’s wife Vasuki. Vasuki cannot be compared with Miriam and called beautiful. But then, she is endowed with the skill of creating and preserving peace in her countenance, eyes, words and her surroundings. It seemed to me that in the same way, but as against that, there is that a magic in Mirium to turn the atmosphere charged.

I don’t know whether such feelings are there in me alone. If asked, Valluvan would answer, but, somehow I felt shy of asking.

That there never could arise any occasion which would in some way bring together Miriam and myself, is known to me in all certainty. I am a very poor Brahmin boy. Not even having the academic qualification and knowledge    required for one to claim himself a Brahmin. Miriam is from an alien land. A girl with different habits and unorthodox practices, i.e., in our view.  Further, one who belongs to a rich household. Enough if she just moves her little finger – there would be thousand young men following her footsteps.

Yet, I cannot help thinking that she did notice me on one or two occasions. And, it seems that it is something that gives me satisfaction.

The other day – recently only – what did Valluvan say?

‘Does love have bolt that shuts one out? Can it be true? Is my quickening heart beats, Love?” I myself cannot say for sure.

Now my friend asks me to go with him to the mansion where Miriam is. Will it bring about a new beginning? Will it indeed happen?”, - Desire urges me.

But, I am afraid too. It so happens that doing something and so being misunderstood and so forced to face humiliation – how to face such a situation? True, Brahmins are to some extent brave people only, having the heart to carry out a job without fearing anything. To that extent I am also a Brahmin. Further, Valluvan is also there… Can cope with the situation…

“May I also come with you?”, I asked Valluvan.

“Who said that you shouldn’t ? if someone says so I will tackle it. If you want to come, come. Disbelieving the stranger is deep-rooted in us. But, Ezekial is no stranger. For, some people, especially for some individuals there is the quality which makes them one with any place and the native of any land and atmosphere. Such persons look familiar amidst any people and in one and all surroundings. In Hebrews – they call themselves Jews – this endearing quality is a little more striking. And, in Ezekial it is especially significant”, said Valluvan.

“Have you talked to that chap?” – asked I.

“With that chap? No, it is wrong. He is very much an elderly person in age. Very much experienced. So, I can think of him only as ‘that gentleman’. Not only with him; but also with his wife, daughters, sons and the servants I haven’t spoken… in this place it is this family that I consider most affectionate and they are real friends and well-wishers.”

“I can’t help feeling somewhat embarrassed”, said I.

“lLast Sunday when I was in their house, Ezekial’s third daughter addressed me as your friend and even enquired after you?”

“Is it? She enquired? Really? So, they have that much freedom for women?”, asked I, greatly surprised.

“The way you have learnt what her name is, she has learnt yours. But, don’t do anything foolishly. She is a highly liberated girl, having a mind and vitality of her own. The way she questions me regarding v arious things are proof enough to show how deep she has though of and has a knowledge of very many things. Sometime I would struggle to answer her queries”, - said Valluvan.

“Is she very much educated?”

“Not Education as such. Some have the capacity to think and contemplate. For the educated, the ‘well’ within springs further and further. But, it happens only some times. for many, Education turns out to be the ‘stagnant-point’ of thinking. Also, there are several uneducated men who can think… once upon a time I myself gad been ignorant of alphabets, remember?” _ said Valluvan.

“But, you have learnt many a thing through listening to others”, I exclaimed. “ I will not accept that you were ever an illiterate even if you did not know reading and writing. I too am an illiterate only. But, I do not possess your…”

“ _ the fact that you have lack of confidence in your own self can become the foundation of your progress… you know.. it can act as a stepping stone to your success. Learning depends on things like Where, in Which place one gets it, What one gets out of Whom etc. we should keep contemplating on all that which we see and hear”.

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CAME THOMAS Ka.Naa.Su’s Novel THOMAS VANDHAAR Translated into English by latha ramakrishnan CHAPTER 3

CAME THOMAS

 Ka.Naa.Su’s Novel THOMAS VANDHAAR

Translated into English by latha ramakrishnan

 CHAPTER 3

 Chatting with each other, both of us reached Ezekial’s mansion. Seeing Valluvan, the head of the muscle-men[usthaads] who was standing at the entrance, came forward and said, “Please do come sir, only half-an-hour ago ‘Saap’ enquired whether you had come”.

“But, I didn’t tell him that I would be coming today. Is he expecting me?” – So saying, Valluvan, along with me, went past the chieftain and his crew, into the house.

Beyond the entrance was a vast huge hall and as its doors were kept wide-opened as befitting its style it looked wide enough for a four-wheeled wagon to be driven in. But, as it happened to be some auspicious day of the Jews there was absolutely none inside. Seemed like business-transactions and visits were temporarily suspended.

“These ‘usthaads’ don’t seem to be from our area”, I remarked.

“They don’t belong to our area. They were slaves from Jews’ land and from its surrounding areas. Ezekial has freed them by buying them from their owners, and thus, securing them freedom he has kept them as his servants”, said Valluvan.

“It is just that he speaks pure Thamizh. That’s why I asked”.

“For th past two or three months he has been learning Thamizh from me”, said Valluvan.

“Oh!”, I exclaimed. ‘Indeed, how many things this Valluvan is doing! When, for me there seems no time even to do one thing fully’- thought I. ‘Each and everyone of us who are all living  today should learn from Valluvan the art of leading a useful life’.

Meanwhile, Mariam herself, who had come from one of those rooms inside, saw us and came past the vast hall, graciously, and, greeting us in the proper Thamizh manner by gesturing vanakkam by joining the palms of both the hands and raising it till her nose, saying, “Come come, my father is waiting to speak to you”.

The knowledge that while she was coming not only myself but also several others who were engaged in doing some work in that vast hall observed the beauty and elegance of her walk, made me feel jealous. It would indeed be good if she were to walk for me alone’ – I felt so. Is it possible? So spontaneously did the thought come whether it wouldn’t be possible at all.

“If the good old gentleman is waiting for you Valluvan, you alone go and come after talking to him. I will wait here itself”, said I.

“My father is not waiting for him to speak to him any secret matter. From our place a lengthy letter has come. Must be something connected with religion. When it comes to religious matters my father likes to chat and  discuss with Valluvan more than with anybody else. And, of morals and justice, codes of conduct I myself like at least some of Valluvan’s ideals”, - so saying, she continued with a smile. “Remember last week we were talking about food-habits? I have decided to be a strict vegetarian like you, henceforth”.

“My friend is forever a vegetarian only”, observed Valluvan.

As if asking what that has got to do with her, she looked up, at me. “My father and mother are teasing me. My brother says that if I am to eat only the plants, my mischievousness would just vanish, leaving no trace of it”

“How can there be Mariam minus mischievousness?” asked Valluvan.

Mariam laughed heartily, as if agreeing with what he had said. Then, “Is your friend dumb? He has not uttered even a single word!”, said she.

“He is not a warrior of words like me”, said Valluvan.

“Not that. I am afraid that there would be horse-whip somewhere within the reach!” said I.

“One should fear horse-whip also, if one is to come having wrong ideas”, said Miriam bravely, looking straight in his eyes.

“This girl is indeed dangerous. Should be careful’ – thought I. For, a Brahmin lad – calling just a lad is incorrect but still – courage comes only sometimes ad in some matters alone.

While Miriam going in front of us, Valluvan and myself followed her. Going behind Miriam who opened the door at the right side and went inside, we reached a square shaped room which was vast-looking. On the three sides of the room there were swings made of wood, near the walls. Made of real teakwood. There were lotus flowers made of silver, decorating the four sides of the swing. On the fourth side of the room there lay a piece of wooden seating, just like that of the swing. There were none, either on the swings or on the wooden-seating.

“Father was sitting here only. He might have gone inside. I will go and call him. Both of you be seated here”.

“For me it appears that the way she speaks Thamizh adds to the beauty of the language itself”, - I said.

“You are a bachelor. If you speak in this vein Vasuki would start asking why, you know!”, said Valluvan.

“Even Miriam cannot be like ‘anni’[sister-in-law]” – while I was saying so, unexpectedly Vasuki herself came inside. The other lady who came inside conversing with her must be one of the elder sisters Miriam.

“I who have come here to teach Miriam and her elder brother Thamizh was asked by the reverend old man to go and bring you. Leaving the lesson midway I’ve started. Thank God, you yourself have come. Good thing”, said Vasuki.

“What lesson you were teaching?” – Enquired Valluvan.

“What all you know you have taught her also, haven’t you? And, she has the skill to impart to others that which she knows, in an able manner. In this land that which is called knowledge and that which is beyond, that, called Wisdom, are obtained easily and from unexpected sources”, -Opined the lady who had come along with Vasuki Ammaiyaar.

Should speak of her as ‘Ammaiyaar’[gentle elderly lady[ only. She must be at least two or three years elder to Vasuki Anni. In her physique, countenance and stature there appeared the motherly look.

I said: “Still, Valluvan and Anni belong to that caste whose people are discarded and ostracized as unfit to learn and get education” – The moment I uttered those words I felt that there was no need to have said so. But, no use biting the tongue. What has been uttered cannot be undone.

That gentle lady said: “That is also a surprise indeed. Don’t know why in this land of knowledge and wisdom people live in mutual disbelief and disrespect and perpetuating wide differences and disparities amidst themselves and so segregate them from their fellow-beings”. Then, turning towards Vasuki Anni, “Come, let’s go inside”, said she.

But, Vasuki Anni said: “I will come another day. He has also come now. Can’t say when he would return home. Father too won’t be at home. Mother will be there all alone, struggling. I’ll go and come later. After all, I keep coming daily. Don’t I?”, and went off. After the lady also went out. Vaaluvan said: “This lady is the eldest sister of Miriam. Her name is Hepsiba. Widow”.

“Sad”, I said.

“Can’t say sad. As far as I know, her husband used to harass her a lot, taking to all evil ways of life. Moreover, she has two children also. A girl and a boy. In a way we can say that it is good that he took leave”.

“Still…”

“True, nothing can be said for sure in man’s life. That which we call good may not be wholly good. Likewise, that which we regard as bad may not be in fact entirely bad also… In all, both are inseparably – interwoven only”.

“Don’t they – i.e., Jews – have widow-remarriage in  them?”

“They say that it is in vogue”, said Valluvan. “But still, may be after the first bitter experience she doesn’t have the courage to go in for the second time or may be, she would have decided against it thinking that there was no need for it after begetting two children”.

As I was watching him intensely, I didn’t notice the person who approached to be of thirty to thirty-five years of age, coming inside. Coming closer, he asked: “Where is father? He was waiting for you only. Have you been here for long?”

“Let him come. We’ll wait. We’re in no hurry. We have come to see your father only” – so saying, Valluvan introduced him to me as ‘His name is Mathew. He is the eldest son of the reverend gentleman. Heir to all his business. In calculation, that too in calculating by heart within a matter of a few seconds he is a great master”. Then, “This is my friend. His name is Vaadhoolan”. – thus, Valluvan introduced me also, to him.

“About him I know that he is our friend and also a man of comforts and a good Brahmin. Miriam has said a lot about him”, said Mathew.

‘Oh, what is this?’ felt I. ‘That Miriam has said a lot about me, he says… what at all is that she would have come to know and said of me…’

‘Not a good Brahmin… can say an evil Brahmin… also, that my existence is smooth-going. How can a person having nothing lead a comfortable life? I consider myself fortunate for having Valluvan as my friend. As the thread in proximity with the flowers acquire the fragrance, so also, thanks to his company, I get the opportunity to enter your mansion and all’.

“I know” – said Mathew majestically. Couldn’t guess what he meant by that. “Valluvan is my friend too. And, because of this we can think that there is a bondage between you and me, no? Moreover, in life, one cannot always live solely on assessing our losses and gains. We need something else, to hold on. For my father there are those to hold on to, like religions, customs and old habits and so on. As for me…”

“You have the thirst to learn the customs and habits of the people of this land and to be one among them. And, I know that your father worries on that score. Vaadhoolan is also of the same mould. He has a liking for everything else, except Brahmins. And, his father worries whether he would lose his Brahmin traits”- said Valluvan.

“Earning money also doesn’t suffice. For, there comes no satisfaction out of it, you know”.

“I agree. Not any one thing alone gives satisfaction. Satisfaction comes only when all are there in the required ratio. We need money. If we spend that which we earn in ‘just’ and ‘honest’ ways, that gives us a sense of satisfaction and peace of mind. Here we believe that if we earn our livelihood in righteous and straight-forward manner we will attain salvation[moksha]. But then, to get salvation, satisfaction etc., we need Grace and Mercy. This world is not for those who have no wealth. Likewise, the world above is not for those who are bereft of mercy and grace and the milk of human-kindness” – Thus concluded Valluvan.

“There may be those who are going on in search non-stop of wealth but are unable to acquire it. Same is the case with mercy too. And, sometimes, one, without searching for them, would just have them also”, said Mathew.

He looked a ‘man-of-riddles’ to me.

“The Jains think that going around, searching thus, is the result of what we have done in our previous birth”, said Thiruvalluvan.

“Thiruvalluvan has been born a Jain only. But, he never calls himself a Jain. In anything and everything he keeps searching for a unique-identity and a humaneness that stands above all religions” – said I.

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CAME THOMAS A NOVEL BY KA.NAA.SU Translated into English by Latha Ramakrishnan CHAPTER – IV

CAME THOMAS

A NOVEL BY KA.NAA.SU

Translated into English by Latha Ramakrishnan

CHAPTER – IV

He was wearing the traditional attire (doga) of the Yavanas,  around the waist and a blue – belt, above it. Must have been wearing ‘chappals’ but he had left them outside. Medium height – maximum two or three inches taller than  Valluvan. Eyes were slightly bluish and looked wide and deep. Not much of hair on the head and what little he had there were a mixture of pure white and grey shades. The face was free of all that I have heard of being the distinct characteristics of the appearance of the Jews – the sharp, curved nose, thin lips, moustache and beard. His fingers were long like the tamarind fruit. The fingers of his feet were also slightly lengthy.

Coming from some fare off unknown land, he has, through his honesty, cleverness and especially humaneness earned very many friends and a lot of wealth here. It is said that he was a much experienced man having been in various lands the world over. But the scars were not standing out.

I have heard that the Jews are scattered all over the world. They were together in harmony and discipline but were scattered due to various reasons. Wherever they are, however much they suffer, they never let go of the pride that they possess in their creed, i.e., being Jews and the unity of their lot and the heart to render mutual help.

I have also heard that these Jews, above all, are one who would never lose faith in their god and who would, on no account, deviate from their religious customs, habits and practices.

Isn’t it but natural for one in whom knowledge and righteousness go hand in hand, to secure, to some extent, worldly success and wealth…?.

Only after Valluvan getting up and greeting him. I too thought of following suit.

“Please be seated, please be seated” – said he, signaling us to sit and then, turning to his son Mathew, said “Ask them to bring some ‘sherbath’ for these two to drink. Valluvan will not have anything else in our house”.

“Sir, I do not want anything now. Only after having ‘neeragaram’ in the morning I left home. You called me for something, they said? Why? What can I do for you? Please tell me?” – said Vallulvan.

“Received some news regarding what happens, is happening now in Jerusalem. My brother Joseph has written. I wanted to read out that letter to you.”

Meanwhile, Mathew’s’ daughter had brought in a plate with four or five cups of ‘sherbat’ and several slices of a mango. “Sent by Miriam only. No? Miriam likes Valluvan very much,” said Ezekial.

“Miriam loves one and all who live on this earth. Not only human beings but she has learnt to show love to the animals also” – remarked Valluvan.

“Loving anything deeply would indeed prove dangerous and sorrowful. This is the way of the world,” observed Ezekial.

“For some, love comes so naturally and due to this love, not causing hurt to others becomes a habit with them. It would be nice if there arises in us that mental frame wherein we can forgive even those who wish us ill.”

“Exactly in this way, a religion of Love which has started only very recently is fast spreading among the Jews as well as amidst others is what my brother has written” – said Ezekial.

“Please tell us in detail!” – requested Valluvan and at once Ezekial took out from his  pocket, a folded parchment and read it out.

“There have always been various ideological quarrels and confirmations among the Jews, who are Israelites. For thousand of years, many of us have been led by the belief that a seer called Messiah would come to be and uniting Jews, and helping them attain victory after victory after victory he would lead them to the noblest seat. That such a Messiah, it is said, had been born in the ancestral family of Davood, some forty or fifty years ago, that he had raised his voice against the unjust practices that were going on in the churches in Jerusalem and thus earned the wrath of the Jewish – Priests and they waited for a long time and when the opportunity arose schemed to kill him. And thus, betraying him, they took him to the young Roman of Palestine, Pandias Pilot, accusing him of being a traitor and that, he claiming to be the new king and that he was blamed as uttering lies by calling himself the Messenger of God, Son of God etc., that Pilot tried to free him saying that he didn’t seem to be an anti – social element, but the priests of the temples of Jews insisted that Jesus should be crucified, and so the king finally relented and ordered the same. And thus, twenty – five or thirty years age, that man called Jesus Christ was crucified” – Having read that, Ezekial paused for a while.

“Indeed sad it is! Crucifying is a cruel practice. In our land also, we have this death–sentence called hanging. When will these practices even in Laws where man harasses and even tortures a fellow – human being come to a an end?”,  asked Valluvan.

“There will be no end,” said Ezekial “Listen further, what my brother has written. About this man called Christ many unbelievable stories are in circulation. He was not born of human being – they say. That he was born of a virgin name Mary and God himself. Mary had a husband by name Joseph. He came in the lineage of former Daveedh emperor. It seems he who had come as Christ had spoken of the poor and the down – trodden, that they alone belong to Paradise and that Heaven is above the reach of the rich. He has cured leprosy-patients by his mere touch, it is said. Once he had even brought to life, Lauzeres, when he died. They say that this Lauzeres is still living. Many stories which claim that Jesus had performed many miracles have spread. Once, during a wedding there was not enough wine for the guests, it seems. Jesus had turned a drum full of water into wine! People say that he had walked on the sea! It is also said that his name and fame and impact keep spreading steadily far and wide, among the poor and the have  – nots and hence, fearing that there would be some revolution sooner or later, the priests insisted on his crucification, they say. But, from what I have heard, he had no aspiration for power and leadership; nor did he seem to have possessed any idea of bringing about a revolution. It looks like he preached to spread the gospels of Universal – Love and for having a heart not to cause hurt to anybody, among the people. It seems he preached like our God Yahova that we should free ourselves from that evil mindset which craved for revenge – an eye, for an eye,  hand for hand, leg for leg and the like. Instead, he seems to have preached thus: “The way you want others to treat you, you should treat others too” and “If a person hits you on one cheek don’t hit him back but show your other cheek” .

At this Valluvan stood up and said enthusiastically. “Please read that again. The way you want other...”

Ezekial read that sentence again. He is said to have preached that ‘the way you want the others to treat you, treat them in the same manner, and that if someone hits you one cheek don’t hit him back but show the other cheek.”

“More or less, the same thing has been emphasized by the Jain Theerthan gas for more than thousand years” – said Valluvan.

“There is another important sentence in the letter. I’ll read that also” – so saying Ezekial read out:

“The followers o Jesus Christ believe that the Son of God who died on the Cross came to life again three days after and moved about before their very eyes. That he came to life again and moved about, is held as one important concept of their ideals. The followers of Jesus Christ are Jews. Day by day controversies and quarrels are increasing for the reason that they are ignoring their traditional eating habits and abusing them. There appears many quarrels and controversies between the two groups – those who are the staunch believers of the ‘old school of thought’ and those of the recently born codes of conduct and ideals of Jesus Christ, and the authorities of Laws and Order have to intervene and bring the situation under control by lathi- charging and passing new stringent laws.

The authorities who have come after Pilot are now known to be dealing harshly with those who follow Jesus Christ. Due to these quarrels and controversies, they meet out harsh treatment to both the groups alike – those who call themselves to be the followers of Christ and those dogmatic ones. Jerusalem and its surrounding places suffer what with one riot at dawn and another at dusk.”

“See, violence results out in the wake of establishing a religion of Love and Universal brotherhood. This is what is known as the Ignorance of Human heart” – said Valluvan.

“Not only that. These followers of Christ who are Christians are all, in a way, Jews only. Jesus himself was a born Jew. In our caste, all who are born of a Jewish-mother are considered as Jews alone. Still, from what my brother has written, it seems that for these ‘Christ – men’ the main course of action is nothing but hating the Jews and picking up quarrels with them. He has written that there arises feud between the two, Paul and Peter, who are the most ardent followers of Jesus, in matters of religious propaganda and it keeps increasing day by day.” – said Ezekial.

“There is nothing to feel surprised at the way in which the very next generation of the Great Soul who had this Universal Love as the crux of his preaching has started having differences and fighting each other. Here also, we have lots of such silly quarrels. Even matters of no significance would give birth to a fight. It is only to love another person that we need solid reason to build a strong bridge of bondage”– observed Valluvan.

“My brother has written about very many other things too. Of them, two are important. Firstly, it is said that the believers of Christ are the Jews, especially the dogmatic ones. The reason that they give sounds funny. A Jew by name Judas is said to have betrayed Jesus. As it is, they are plunged neck-deep in troubles, and now this is a new headache. They should face  the wrath of the other sect of Jews. Apart from this, there is one more important thing to tell.”

“What is it?” – asked Valluvan.

“Judas who is one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ had turned into an enemy right at the outset. The rest of them – the remaining eleven disciples – they are called Apostle in ‘Juda’ languages meaning ‘prime and chosen’ Disciples. It is ordered that they must divide the world into eleven compartments and each one of them is allotted a compartment wherein he is ordained to spread the Glory and Message of Jesus Christ and so strive hard to convert the entire world into Christianity. Thus, Peter and Paul went to Rome and with some propaganda and the spirit of sacrifice they had succeeded in spreading the message among the low caste – born; – so my brother has written”.

“Sounds good only” – said Valluvan.

“In a way it seems good only. But, who could tell as to what all controversies and chaos would be resulting out of these things? And, how the history of Humanity would change due to this impact of Christianity? My brother has written that Thomas, one of the twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, has been, for his part, assigned the duty of coming to India and converting Indians into Christians, that without wasting time he has reached the Northern part of India by some route and stayed there for sometime, preaching Christianity, successfully, and later has been preaching Christian gospels to the Keralities on the Eastern Shore and that as he has already known about me and my stay in Mylapore, he, the apostle Thomas might come in search of me– thus my brother has written”– so, saying, Ezekial put the letter back into his pocket.

“For religious propagandas there is no dearth here.  The people would accept him – what is the name? Thomas? – as one more. But, if he comes, I would like to discuss and learn from him, not about mere religion or concepts, but about the Man called Jesus and the Messiah” – said Valluvan.

Without intervening, Ezekial was looking at Valluvan. Valluvan continued: “Indeed, right from the start, cruelty and hard–heartedness have been reigning supreme in the world. There is no doubt about it. It is also true that time and again there arose many among men who had toiled hard to spread the religion of love on earth. Thus from among the Jains arose a Theertanga by name Rishabadevar who spread vegetarian food – habits and the gospel that Love alone is eternal, it is said. But, a historical personality called Mahaveera – who is a man like us – had standardized these principles and concepts and made those rules a must for the benefit of Humanity. And the Jains think that after him there is no need for the advent of any Theerthanga. To me, it seems that even in a religion which is built on Grace, Mercy and Love, there is a room for the rise of all evil paths and hence, the need for another ‘Theerthanga’, of one more who, as him, is endowed with irresistible power. Even I can turn into a Guru and bring about reformations. There is no one to prevent that. Among the sons of this land whoever wants to accept them can accept and those who refuse to accept can go their way. Though the two would come to blows at times and fight with each other, by large, they would find a compromise. That is why, in this country called Bharatham, in spite of the birth and growth of so many religions, generally, all of us can to some extent continue to live in peace and harmony. True, in a small community like that of the Jews if some conflict arise it might bring about somewhat dangerous and continuing after–effects. And, it is indeed necessary to think of it and fear it. Even after leaving their land and settling here, going about, doing their work that they should live in a state of panic is but a curse on humanity.”

I felt surprised at the way my friend has started giving a long lecture. I, who had been keeping quiet till then, though there was the doubt whether I was entering into something unknown, said, “We can prevent these ideological differences and hatred from affecting anybody. That too, these concepts and the conflicts do not at all affect greatly, those who have wealth and power.” Only after uttering those words did the feeling that whether it was wrong on my part to have said so, start troubling me. Any way, it is done. I remembered the words of Valluvan’s mother Aadhi who used to say, “One can never take back those words once uttered. So, one should always think twice before speaking my son,”. “If I have said something wrong I apologize” .

It was Valluvan who answered. Ezekial who was deep in thought did not reply.

“Some have wealth. Many do not. For some there is that called Power, Influence. For very many, it is not. But, with no exception, there is in every human heart, the inner heart that is called conscience, which is ever alert and evaluating. And, it functions as a silent but wakeful witness in matters like love, attachment towards other human beings, uttering good words etc. It is indeed easy to shun a leprosy–patient and asking him not to come any near. But, those who regard him also as their brother and consider fulfilling his needs and requirements as his birthright and bounden duty should be worshipped as divine – angels in the garb of man. To me, more than his miracles like turning water into wine, walking on the sea, bringing alive the dead, it is touching the leprosy patient and lovingly tending and consoling them looks most important and the noblest. I want to learn more about this man” – said Valluvan.

“I think you would get an opportunity for that. Jews are those who are steadfastly holding on to many things, never letting them go till the very end. I have heard a lot about Apostle Thomas who is said to have come to spread Christianity among the people of this country, on another occasion. It is said that he was highly suspicious of the rise of Jesus from the grave, and that the ‘come – alive’ Christ himself appeared before him and did relieve him of his suspicion by saying. “Have faith. Don’t be suspicious. Death is not the End. There is Life – a Divine Life beyond that.” The other Christians would call him, it is said, “Thomas, the Disbeliever.’ He is said to be more learned and educated than the rest of the Apostles. If he comes in search of me, I will send word. You can come and meet him. I do believe that he would enlighten you a lot on the subject of Jesus as a man.” – said Ezekial.

“Let him come” – said Valluvan.

I too felt like saying “Let him come.” Valluvan uttered those words to know about the noble soul who had come as the harbinger and founder of a new Humane–Religion. Ezekial in his anxiety to know how this man called Jesus would affect the future of his clan – Jews, has uttered those words, ‘Let him come’, awaiting the arrival of – is he an Apostle? – I myself did not know. Somehow, a great expectation had crept into my heart. Couldn’t say why and how. That this visit which has made Valluvan himself to contemplate at length must be significant and important’ – thought I.

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CAME THOMAS - CHAPTER 5 [A NOVEL BY KA.NAA.SU. Translated into English by Latha Ramakrishnan].

CAME THOMAS

 A NOVEL BY 

KA.NAA.SU. 

Translated into English by Latha Ramakrishnan

CHAPTER 5

CAME THOMAS

A NOVEL BY KA.NAA.SU

Translated into English by Latha Ramakrishnan

CHAPTER –V

Even today, after very many years of all that had happened. I could find only one reason for my going to Ezekial’s mansion with Valluvan. That I could see Miriam, be near her and move closely with her, that was the only reason. Her person and the way she spoke and some of the words she uttered had a magnetic effect on me. Whether I realized that strange sensation as affection or love then, I myself was not clear about it.

Miram who welcomed us when we went to Ezekial’s mansion for the first time, could not be seen at all, afterwards. The few words that she spoke were also with Valluvan only. I just listened to them, being with Valluvan. That’s all. Those important and significant matters that Ezekial and Valluvan discussed evoked interest in me only because they were from those two and not because of anything else. I did not know then that the arrival of Jesus whom they considered important or the advent of the disciple of Jesus called Thomas would have a great impact on me and affect me in very many ways. The old gentleman felt sad that some tried hard to unsettle the age old habits and customs of his religion. Only that Valluvan felt happy at the prospect of having something a new to learn and know. That is all. I couldn’t find anything in it to feel glad or sad. Happiness or sorrow could come to me through Miriam. That’s all.

One day, when Valluvan was advising the Prince of Pallava Kingdom, Svaputhran, saying, “Dont waste the present, thinking of the Future”, I sat there listening to him. ‘What a simple but thought–provoking advise is this!– wondered myself. The future would come on in its own way. And, would be, as it would be. It can be either built by someone in some manner or built by one’s own self. It can also be compromise and adjustment to what others force upon us. Whatever that be, spending the whole of Today thinking of the Future alone... how foolish it is!

Most of the Brahmins read horoscopes to foretell the future. Mostly it is but true only that man’s destiny or course of journey is monitored and chalked out by something called planets which are moving about somewhere in the Milky – Way. Still, Valluvan would mock at the practice of depending heavily on it always, on it for death, marriage, business and journey and for many other trivial matters. As for me, I have neither faith nor disbelief in this. Seems like it can be so and it cannot be so also.

Leaving Ezekial’s mansion and after walking along the shores of the restlessly roaring sea that stood in front of the mansion for more than half – an hour, as if forgetting that Valluvan was coming along, and Valluvan too forgetting that he had also come so far in silence, asked, “Hey, what Vadhoola? What is the matter?”.

“You too didn’t say anything! And, I don’t have brains to think and say of my own, If you say something, I’ll answer,” – so I said tactfully.

Valluvan laughed, saying, “But, this meeting of the eyes do not seem to be of any help in you case. That girl is a Jew. Entirely an alien. You are a high – born citizen of our land.”

“They are rich. I’m poor.”

“That is not important. If Miriam says that she would marry you alone, Ezekial would make your rich. He has got enough wealth and magnanimity for that. But, all my worry is that your father and your people would raise great hue and cry and prevent you, and if needed, would even carry you away.”

“Do you mean that my father would object to my becoming rich?”

“None in this world sit quiet and watch a poor turning rich. That too, in you cast these ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ are more, no?”.

“May be. But I know my father. If money would come his way, he would be ready to even convert his own self into a Jew. He doesn’t seem to be having any great attachment or reverence for the tenets of Brahmanism,” said I.

“I don’t think that the hold and influence of Brahmanism would that easily give way. Also, I don’t find any of the objectives and ideals of the New Religion to be something significantly new and more powerful.” -stated Valluvan.

“All ideals are good only. All ideals are bad also. Dedication towards the ideals can be seen only in a few. Ordinary people do not have the capacity to think seriously about things called the good and the bad. They just walk along the trodden–path that they come across, this trait is commonly seen in all, be they Brahmin or non-Brahmin, amidst those who follow the ideals of Buddha or those who are like me..”

“Hear, hear! not bad I say! Vaadhoolan too has learnt to think much! Don’t know where he would go from here!” - exclaimed Valluvan and laughed innocently.

“My father say that I too, because of my association with you, am turning corrupt. Due to my constant proximity with you, a small drop of the down – pour that is your thinking power, is reaching me also. Remember what you said the other day –“

“What did I say?”.

“That, what a wonder indeed it is that surprisingly those who are inhuman are looking exactly like the humans...”

“What of it now?”.

“No. I just mentioned. I was about to say that those who are not Brahmins too look like Brahmins”

“Congrats! When I start a ‘hermit – school’ I will definitely accept you, who has begun to learn the issue this much, as principal disciple.” – said Valluvan.

“I have no wish for that. Knowledge is indeed a dangerous weapon. Sometimes it would even taste the blood of he who puts it to use. Further..”

“What else?” – asked Valluvan.

“All those who are called prime disciples are at appropriate time betraying their respective Gurus – so it seems to me.”

“Oh! well-said Vaadhoola! Well said!” – exclaimed Valluvan and continued.

“Seems like you have thought a lot over these things. That which are called Hindu religion. Paths of Life, Philosophy – the degeneration of all had started way back in the Vedic period itself. The Religion of Buddha preached by Gauthama Buddha had started to decay in a big way, even before the Theerthangas could finish what they were saying, that their ideals had begun to lose their hold and many other such things say, that the moment he is born Man takes his first step towards his close. Similarly, religions, principles, philosophies and all come into being ,carrying along with them their decay. As much unreal and unsettling our life on Earth is, so much temporal mortal those principles and philosophies that determine life.”

“Continue.”

“What to say?” We go on proclaiming “The Truth” , he one and only truth ‘  and so on. What exactly is that Truth? According to one’s perception truth also changes. That which is for the welfare of humanity and mankind should be considered “The Truth, that which causes no good to humanity and that which is against the welfare of humanity is but falsehood.”

“Which would do good? Which would cause damage? Who knows for sure these things? They too can change according to the changing circumstances? Can’t they?”

“True, they can change. Because of this only there appear many paths, ways and religions amidst us. Instead of unity resulting out of them, chaos comes to prevail. Harmony is affected. Fights and quarrels are born..” But, for the time-being, we should put a full-stop to these enriching pondering.. for, see, there your father is coming..” said Valluvan.

“Just a moment ago we were talking of him, no? He would live well over a hundred year… What is it father? Coming in search of me? We were just talking of you only.. you will live a hundred years father!” – said I.

“Ah yes, your blessing would indeed become true,” – so saying mockingly, my father brought forth a sad expression on his face and said further. “The noble soul who gave you birth is lying in her death-bed. She asked me to bring you to her. Wherever you be... said she wouldn’t leave the world until she sees you.”

Though I feel no attachment towards my father, when it comes to my mother I am all love for her. Under no circumstance I could ever think of this world without my mother in it. Giving meals at the appropriate time without fail, uttering words of love when father scolds, speaking words of consolation, wishing to marry me off at the proper age and play with the grandchildren, tending them with care and affection…Oh, such a loving soul!.

“My friend Valluvan, not getting upset on hearing the news, said, “Nothing bad would happen. Your mother would definitely live long enough at least till your marriage. She would live even longer to see the birth of your off-springs. Go with your father without any worry”.

I know that, somehow, treatment to the patients is also a well-known subject to Valluvan. But, in our street where we the Brahmins live one cannot call him to treat my mother.

“I will come and tell you her health condition and what ails her, as soon as possible. You can give some medicinal herb,” – so saying I took leave of him and, with father following, returned home hurriedly.

While nearing my house in the Brahmin street in Mylapore agaraharam the differences  between Ezekial’s mansion and my home came to my mind distinctly. That was mansion – where Mahalakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth has come to stay willingly. Can say that her elder sister alone (Moodevi, one who stands for the opposite of prosperity) resides in our house.

Father knows some sasthras. Has earned the name that he knows the art of making a living out rituals and ceremonies. He earned fairly well through such an orthodox life. But there are also those who earned more than him. My father who lived on, having as his philosophy desiring another man’s wife, pretends to be sad on his wife’s illness. That is what irritated me. He never thought of his wife. I think of her. And, because of that alone I wander, feeling restless at home....learning many things through conversing with Valluvan. I love my mother with all my heart. I have love for my father too. But, it has in it some amount of sorrow, a pain -that whether I too would turn into a replica of my father.

‘More than half of the houses located in the Agraharam are slowly decaying. They were built by our ancestors in those days when they were earning well. Mostly, as the earning of the family decline the resources to set right the damages and renovate the house become fewer. In all, there are only eighteen houses in both the rows that stood facing each other. Out of this, ten houses are going from bad to worse. Of the remaining eight houses, mine is also one. Standing slightly taller one should climb four steps to enter it. Outside, there stood two cement benches, vast and smooth – surfaced, which would invite one to lie and stretch oneself . Through the window that is seen there, only the wind can enter inside and not the light. That once belonged to that type of room called camera-room. Dark corridor. Beyond that, there lies a verandah with wooden pillars holding aloft the ceiling. After the verandah there is another one in the same fashion. Then there stood a hall, vast and wide enough to encompass the two verandahs together. At the other end stood a ‘more or less’ ten-foot tall granary. And, it would always be filled to the brim with grains. In the center of the hall would be the swing. Mother would always be sitting in it if she is well. But now, she is lying down on the ‘Visupalaga’ near to the swing.

Before seeing mother, I saw her. She was sitting there on the swing as if the owner of the house. “Oh what is this? Who has admitted her?’ ­ I wondered. Thinking that it is indeed a surprise I enquired, “Who? Miriam?”

“Ah, yes. They brought my sister Lizzath here to treat your mother. I too came along” – said Miriam.

I know that there floats a rumour in the area that Ezekial’s second daughter Lizzath is a ‘Gifted Hand’ in curing the patients and that if she agrees to treat one and sets out to work on the patient, even the most complicated ailment would be cured. Further, I have also learnt that she would do it free of cost out of humaneness and that she would use  effective medicines, not accepting money and spending from her own purse. That this girl Miriam would also accompany is something I didn’t know.

“I love to learn this art of curing other. Hence, I too would accompany her. For, I think that learning through one’s own eyes alone is mainly important.” – said she.

“Just as I come with Valluvan to learn through listening.”

“Lizzath said that there is nothing to worry regarding mother. She has gone to bring medicine” – so saying, when she tried to get up from the swing I gestured her to sit down and then went near mother, and, standing beside her, looked at her. “So, you have come Vaadhoo? Come,” – said she, weakly.

“What has happened to you mother? What is wrong? – I asked, in a tone that reflected the deep sorrow within.

“Suddenly I felt giddy. Seems like I fell down.Your father came and saw me and raised great hue and cry. Next door Kitta’s wife Parvatham carried me and after placing me on the Visup-palaga, sent her son to bring that Lizzath. That is all. When father came I sent him to bring you here. Now I  am  better”,      said   mother.   .

Hearing her uttering the word “Thaevalai” (better) in her distinct style as “Thavalai” I felt light as if relieved of the tension. For, mother would always utter the word like that. I used to tease her on that account. Even when I mock at her she would defend herself saying that it was like that in her native place. Only after that, did I ask her and learnt which place she came from.

Mother’s native place was the land of the Chola kingdom. A small village near Mayavaram. When father was reciting Vedhas in vedha padasala in Mayavaram, for sixteen year old Venkataraman they gave away a nine year old girl by name Savithiri in marriage. Going from place to place in search of a job, when they came to “Kapali – Kshethra’ it coincided with my birth and so he stayed in Mylapore from then onwards, in the house built by my grandmother. Theirs was an average life with not many an ebb and flow.

‘My life should not become one like theirs, so routine and mechanical. There won’t be any interest in such a life.’ Thought I.

‘No matter in what way it turns out to be, I should see to it that my wife doesn’t suffer like my mother did’ – felt I. When I think of how many a blow my mother would have suffered silently, I feel great anger and wrath towards my father with the knowledge that my mother is the very embodiment of patience and my father’s philosophy of life is to go after other men’s wives. I keep struggling to go my way.

Valluvan proves to be my beacon – light.

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