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Marriage Procession of Nemi
Naval RAM
Many are the songs and ballads composed on the theme of Nemi's renunciation followed by that of Rajul or Rajimati, his bride-elect. As the theme is poignant and full of pathos it touches every human heart and there are few who can withold their tears when these are recited in public or read in private. Below we give translation of a song composed in Lāvanı metre by one Naval Ram. Lāvaņi songs are usually sung with the accompaniment of cang, a Rajasthani disc-like leather instrument. First two lines of the song are often repeated as refrain. The music and rhythm of Rajasthani songs are difficult to translate but one will be struck by the treatment of the theme and its expressive brevity.
A grand procession indeed Of Nemi's marriage ! Men and women have come to see, Horses and elephants accompany, Human beings are beyond count, Banners flutter on camels' back, And quivers earth as tumults mount.
The darling of Samudravijaya, Nemi by name, A seeker of Rajul's hand In the palace of Ugrasena. The whole city is happy and gay. A grand procession indeed ! 1
Gorgeous is his purple robe, And picturesque rings on the ears, Pleasant is the jewel at crest And a pearl necklace round the neck.
Shimmering sheen of ear-rings bright, And dazzling splendour of the crown Put to shame a thousand suns Outshining them all. And bands play tunes sweet. A grand procession indeed ! 2
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