Singer: Bhimsen Joshi
Composer: Purandaradasa (1484-1564)
Lyrics: here
Karuniso Ranga Karuniso is a beautiful bhajan in Kannada by Purandaradasa (1484-1564). Sung by Bhimsen Joshi. In early 2016, a Kannada speaking friend played it for me in his car. He translated each line as it was being sung. I was captivated. A very beautiful composition!
The Bhajan is a prayer to the Almighty to have 'karuna' (compassion) for the devotee, despite the devotee lacking in merits when compared with the meritorious deeds of mythological figures like Rukmaangada, Shuka, Devaki, Garuda, Hanumaan, Mahaabali and so on. Simple! :) That's what I like about this Bhajan — it evokes powerful feelings by using simple words.
Lyrics and translation are also available here and here, respectively.
Roman Script
Hagalu Irulu Ninna Samrane Mareyadanthe || Karuniso ||
Translation
So I will never forget to remember you night and day
Roman Script
Shuka Muniyanthe Struthisalu Ariye
Bakavairiyenthe Dhyanava Maadalariye
Devakiyanthe Muddisaloo Ariye Krishna || Karuniso ||
Translation
Nor do I know how to praise you like the sage Shuka
I do not know how to contemplate on you like the Enemy of Baka
Neither can I hold and adore you like Devaki did.
Roman Script
Kariyalu Ariye Kari Raajanante
Vara Kapiyanthe Daasyava Maadalariye
Siriyante Neredu Mohisalu Ariye Krishna || Karuniso ||
Translation
I cannot call out for you as the King of Elephants did
I do not know how to be a servant like Hanumaan
I do not know how to serve and make you happy like Sri Lakshmi.
Roman Script
Bhakthi Cheluvanariye Prahalladanante
Varisalu Ariye Arjunanante Sakhanaagi
Salaho Devara Deva Salaho Devara Deva
Purandara Vittala Sri Purandara Vittala || Karuniso ||
Translation
Neither have I the persistent devotion of Prahlaada
Unlike Arjuna, I do not know how to cherish you as a friend
Please help me, Purandara ViThala, God of all gods.
gurmeet@gmail.com