Dr. Sandhyaa Bombay
The keertana Antaryami Alisithini is a profound reflection of the inner dialogue between poet-saint Annamayya and his Antaryami—the indwelling divine presence. Often referred to as the “inner guide” or “inner controller,” this sacred presence resides within all of us, serving as a spiritual compass that quietly illuminates our life’s path. The concept of Antaryami resonates with parallel ideas in various traditions—Hinduism’s Atman, Buddhism’s Buddha-nature—all underscoring that a vast source of wisdom and grace dwells within each soul.
A Yearning for Inner Refuge
అంతర్యామి అలసితి సొలసితి
Annamayya’s spiritual journey begins with an earnest cry:
“Inner Inhabitant! I am weary; my spirit is exhausted from the relentless journey of life. In this moment of fatigue, I seek refuge in your embrace.”
These lines lay bare the poet’s soul, revealing his deep spiritual exhaustion. He longs for the sanctuary within—the only place where true strength and solace reside. The struggle is evident as he battles worldly distractions that cloud his vision and obstruct his path to redemption.
The Call to Detach and Surrender
కోరిన కోర్కులు…పాప పుణ్యములు
In his inner conversation, Annamayya pleads for guidance to release the burdens of desire—wealth, fame, attachments, and the dualities of sin and virtue. His surrender to the Antaryami brings him comfort, peace, and clarity.
As he lets go of worldly cravings, he feels lighter—energized, hopeful, and open to transformation. This metamorphosis may not be instant, but the path to it is filled with assurance and spiritual renewal.
Navigating the Complexity of Desires
…జనుల సంగముల జక్క రోగములు
Annamayya acknowledges that desires often become chains, restricting personal and spiritual growth. Like gravity that keeps one grounded, these attachments anchor us in illusion.
Through the keertana, he reflects on how our experiences—shaped by both noble and flawed choices—define our journey. The verses act as a mirror, compelling us to look within, confront hidden truths, and understand the depth of our entanglements.
Embracing Faith Amidst Uncertainty
…నీవు విడిపించక … నీవిటు శాంతపరచక
The poet recognizes the unrest that stems from unresolved fears and inner chaos.
“Our minds brim with fear and doubt. Without letting go, peace will remain elusive.”
Pride often keeps us from acknowledging emotional struggles. Annamayya urges us to seek help—to surrender in faith.
That act of surrender becomes the turning point. Faith, a radiant flame in the dark, enables us to meet suffering with strength and emerge transformed.
The Divine Recognition
…ఎదుటనె శ్రీ వెంకటేశ్వర నీవదె
Standing before Lord Venkateswara, Annamayya’s devotion intensifies. His aspirations transcend material longing; he seeks divine acceptance and cosmic belonging.
Though his prayers stir inner turbulence and doubt, it is through dialogue with the Antaryami—his personal spark of the divine—that he finds direction. His journey becomes not just a solitary search but an invitation for others to explore their own sacred inner realms. It is a collective path toward peace, fortitude, and awakening.
Faith, Self-Acceptance, and the Power of Surrender
…ఇంతట నీ శరణిదె జొచ్చితిని
Annamayya ultimately finds peace in surrendering to Lord Venkateswara. But this surrender is not passive—it demands active trust, deep faith, and the courage to relinquish ego and desire.
Through surrender, he discovers hope. Through self-acceptance, he unearths the divine within. This inner harmony paves the way for true transformation. Recognizing and embracing the self becomes foundational for spiritual intimacy with the divine—and for lasting change.
A Voyage of Self-Discovery
Annamayya’s journey in Antaryami Alisithini, culminating in Nee Sharanide Jochitini, is a sacred voyage of self-discovery. It reveals that trust and surrender are the keys to unlocking deep joy and freedom. Sustaining this inner connection nurtures the soul, guiding it toward serenity and fulfillment.
By embracing who we truly are, we too can access the divine within and witness real change in our lives. Annamayya’s spiritual legacy is a guiding light, reminding us that the path to divine bliss lies within—through reflection, faith, and surrender. (The author is a former Reader, Bhavan’s New Science College.)
