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Travels of Guru Nanak: A Brief
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<blockquote data-quote="dalvinder45" data-source="post: 225153" data-attributes="member: 26009"><p style="text-align: center"><strong>SUMATRA</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center"><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center"><strong>[ATTACH=full]22460[/ATTACH]</strong></p><p><strong> Map 26.1 Sumatra </strong></p><p></p><p>After visiting the capital of Majapahit, he visited other areas of Java, Bali and Ayudhya and started his return journey through Sumatra.</p><p></p><p>. Sumatra was known in ancient times by the Sanskrit names of Swarnadwīpa ("Island of Gold") and Swarnabhūmi ("Land of Gold"), because of the gold deposits of the island's highland.[1] The first word mentioning the name of Sumatra was the name of Srivijiyan (king) Sumatrabhumi ("King of the land of Sumatra") [2] who sent an envoy to China in 1017. One of the earliest known kingdoms was Kantoli, which flourished in the 5th century CE in southern Sumatra. Kantoli was replaced by the Empire of Srivijaya and then later by the King of Samudra. Srivijaya was a Buddhist monarchy centered in what is now Palembang.[3]</p><p></p><p>Late in the 14th century the name Sumatra became popular from the word Samudra. It is with reference to the kingdom of Samudra Pasai, a rising power until it was taken over by Sultanate of Aceh. Sultan Alauddin Shah of Aceh, on letters written in 1602 addressed to Queen Elizabeth I of England, referred to himself as "king of Aceh and Samudra".[4] The word itself is from Sanskrit “Samudra”. [5]</p><p>[ATTACH=full]22461[/ATTACH]</p><p><strong> Map 26.2. of geological formation of Sumatra Island</strong></p><p></p><p>The longest axis of the island runs approximately 1,790 km (1,110 mi) northwest–southeast, crossing the equator near the centre. At its widest point, the island spans 435 km (270 mi). The interior of the island is dominated by two geographical regions: the Barisan Mountains in the west and swampy plains in the east. To the southeast is Java, separated by the Sunda Trait. To the north is the Malay Peninsula, separated by the Strait of Malacca. To the east is Borneo, across the Karimata Strait. West of the island is the Indian Ocean. The backbone of the island is the Barisan Mountain chain, with the active volcano Mount Kerinci as the highest point at 3,805 m (12,467 ft), located at about the midpoint of the range. The volcanic activity of this region endowed the region with fertile land and beautiful sceneries, for instance around lake Toba. It also contains deposits of coal and gold. The volcanic activity stems from Sumatra's location on the Pacific Ring of Fire- which is also the reason why Sumatra has had some of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded.</p><p></p><p>Sumatra is not particularly densely populated, with just over 100 people per km2 – more than 50 million people in total. Because of its great extent, it is nonetheless the fourth most populous island in the world. The most populous regions include most of North Sumatra and central highlands in West Sumatra, while the major urban centers are Medan and Palembang.</p><p></p><p>Most probably it was beyond South East Asia, may be either in Microasia or Marshal Islands. Dr Kohli and Gyani Lala Singh Sangrur even mentioned that Guru Nanak visited China, Japan and Australia. This needs further research.</p><p></p><p>The sea routes to the entire world had become open and the ships moved on silk and spice route very often. To board a ship would have been difficult because of the permissibility of pilgrims on explorer or trading ships. Keeping this in view, Guru Nanak might have travelled in shorter sea routes normally i.e., from island to island, though Bhai Bala records two of journeys to be long as well which he might have managed with the help of his followers. The prominent sea routed frequented at his time were silk route and spice route as given below</p><p></p><p>One such follower was Mansukh, who tied up Guru’s visit to King Shiv Nabh of Sri Lanka. the kings like Sudhar Sain, Madhur Bain, Dev loot, Kawal Nain who became Guru’s followers also would have helped in travelling on long routes. It is also likely that Guru Nanak went further on this route to Philippines and China. According to Giani Lal Singh Sangruru, the Guru went further to Nanking in Chibna. He gave the message to Burma, China and Japan to various Boddhis and Jainins as follows:</p><p></p><p>Remaining dirty day and night the God’s Name is not preferred. The real truth and purity cannot be achieved without the word. (Var Malar) and ‘Tearing hairs of head, drinking the extra and eating half eaten and by borrowing; smelling the latrines and having discarded water</p><p></p><p>In number of places in China Guru Nanak’s idol worship continues. People remember him as Baba Fusa. Due to lack of preaching and care the memorials could not be constructed. Guru Nanak held discussions with Lama Gurus and gave them the message of One God and True Naam. Many Jainis and Boddhis became followers of Guru Nanak. [6] Dr Surinder Singh Kohli mentions, “Sea trade has been going on in these lands and islands.[7]</p><p></p><p><strong>Meeting Kauda, The Cannibal</strong></p><p>[ATTACH=full]22462[/ATTACH]</p><p><strong>Photo 26.1 Guru Nanak saving Mardana from being boiled in hot oil by Koda Rakshash</strong></p><p></p><p>Guru Nanak’s travels to Dhanasari Des and meeting Kauda cannibal have been found recorded in Janamsakhis. Puratan Janamsakhi [6] mentions episode of Kauda cannibal related to Dhanasari Des on an island.[7] Janamsakhi Bhai Bala [8] too has the episode of Kauda Cannibal. Puratan Janamsakhi has two more episodes connected with Guru Nanak’s visit to Dhanasri before this. The first is connected with Khwaja Khidar: Guru Nanak’s companions copy local Muslims and start offering fish to the river most probably Tenasserim taking as Khwaja Khidar. Guru Nanak stopped them from this practice quoting: “Athhe pahri athh khand….dukh(u) such(u) khasmai paas(i) (SGGS p.146) and “Paun(u) guru paanee pita….keti chhutee naal(i) (SGGS p.8) [9] The other episode is of redeeming a Jain monk and his followers telling them not to get into dirty practices like picking heir from their heads, eating leftovers, smelling excreta, getting their heads clean shaven etc. and asked them to be clean and remember God’ Name. He explained; “Sach-hon orai sabh ko upar sach aachar” and sang two hymns: “Satigur(u) hoi dayal t shardha poorie…. Satigur(u) hoi dayal t sach(i) samaie.” (SGGS, p.149) and “Sir khohai peeah(i) malwani….ja pat(i) rakhai soi. (SGGS 149-50)”[10]. They all became Guru Nanak’s followers.</p><p></p><p>Here the third episode of Kauda as recorded in Janam Sakhi Bhai Bala is given:</p><p></p><p>“There is a kingdom of Asrapnah in a foreign land. Guru Nanak started his next visit to the place, known it to be the seat of Jhanda Badhi. As they were passing through an island, Mardana revolted. Guru Nanak was keen to redeem someone but Mardana insisted on not going any further and asked to be relieved. Guru Nanak said: “The route is full of troubles for a lone person. You would not know what would happen and when. It is better that you be with us.” Mardana insisted on leaving. Mardana asked Bala to explain him the situation. Bala said, “He is crossing his limits. You being Nanak Nirankari can control him. If some demon catches him Mardana will be no more.” Due to his continuous insistence, Guru Nanak did not restrain him. Once Mardan left, nothing was known of him for a day. Guru stayed in the jungle. Second day, at noon, Guru Nanak said to Bala, “Mardana is going to be roasted in a boiling cauldron.” Bala had been quite fed up of Mardana’s irritating behaviour and did not ponder over what the Guru said. He said in anger: “Let him be boiled.” Guru Nanak said: “You must feel responsibility of saving you companion. He is of great worth not only for us but for many others whom he helps getting redeemed.”</p><p></p><p>Guru Nanak and Bhai Bala started towards the direction Mardana had gone. They saw a fire below a cauldron filled with oil for cooking someone. Bala said, “The cauldron containing boiling oil is for cooking Mardana. How can we wait and watch when Mardana is being roasted alive by the cannibal?” Guru Nanak said, “Let us see what God does.” They started watching from behind the bushes. When Kauda put Mardana in burning cauldron nothing happened to Mardana. It looked as if the boiling cauldron has frozen and fire has gone off. Demon was astonished. Guru Nanak came out of hiding and said, “Kauda! Why are you not eating Mardana? Why have you kept him safe?” Kauda said: “How do you know my name? I am surprised. Where were you born? Please tell me the truth”. Guru Nanak sang a hymn in Rag Maru:</p><p></p><p>“The egg of doubt has burst; my mind has been enlightened. The Guru has shattered the shackles on my feet, and has set me free. My coming and going in reincarnation is ended. The boiling cauldron has cooled down; the Guru has blessed me with the cooling, soothing Naam, the Name of the Lord. Since I joined the Company of the Holy, those who were eyeing me have left. The One who tied me up, has released me; what can the Watchman of Death do to me now? The load of my karma has been removed, and I am now free of karma. I have crossed the world-ocean, and reached the other shore; the Guru has blessed me with this Dharma. True is my place, and True is my seat; I have made Truth my life’s purpose. True is my capital and True is the merchandise, which Nanak has placed into the home of the heart. (SGGS, p.1002)</p><p></p><p>Kauda cannibal understood that he was facing a great saint who had caste his spell on him. He fell at Guru’s feet. He did not get up and kept on requesting forgiveness for his evil deeds. Guru Nanak said, “You have hurt rebec player Mardana; now he only can help your redemption. You will be emancipated if you accept the fact.” Kauda said, “He too is acceptable to me. Whosoever you say is acceptable to me. But you must not keep me away.” Guru Nanak laughed looked at Bhai Bala inquisitively, who said, “You only know what you ought to do.” Kauda requested Guru Nanak: “Please give me some order.” Guru Nanak said, “Go and bring something for hungry Mardana to eat.” Kauda ran to the jungle and brought fruits. Mardana and Bala happily enjoyed the fruits but Guru Nanak gave his share to Kauda. Having eaten the fruit, Kauda came into ecstasy. He was enlightened. Mardana and Bala were astonished and enquired as to how a cannibal had been emancipated. Guru Nanak explained: “He was waiting for redemption since ages. God has sent me to redeem him. This is done now. God’s ways are great. What all is shown by God to you, please enjoy the same.”</p><p></p><p>They stayed for seven days with Kauda. Kauda was established as a religious preacher in the area. All the demons in the area too were redeemed with the True Company of the Guru and became Guru’s followers. [11]</p><p></p><p>The area cited is Dhanasri. Dhanasri is Tenasserim then under Majapahit Kingdom but now partly under Burma, partly under Malay and partly under Singapore. It is also touching Ayudhya kingdom; now in Thailand (earlier known as Siam). In Burma it is a province known as Taninthary and name Tenasserim is spelt as Tanawsri, Tanao Sri, Tanaw Sri in Burmese; Tanah Seri in Malay and Thio Khao Tanaosi in Thai. 12] It is located on Tenasserim hills and the settlements are along river Tenasserim. Asparan or Sparan are the jackfruit grown along Tenasserim River [13] Sparan is also the wood which is grown in plenty in Tenassserim on which this jackfruit sparan grows.</p><p></p><p>Tenasserim’s pronunciation as Tanawsri is very close to Dhanasari. Being one of the full fledged states in Burma, it is a well known country or ‘des’. This region is all along the sea enclosing it from east, west and south. Burma, Tanesserim, Malay and Sumatra fall with in South East Asia and was then part of Majapahit kingdom.</p><p></p><p>There were frequent travels from Chittagong to Tenassarim en route to East Asian and China. One was Niccolo who visited the area in the preceding century before Guru Nanak’s visit.</p><p></p><p>Niccolò de' Conti (1395–1469) visited the area in 1421 and mentioned that the area was infested with cannibals. Niccolo was a Venetia merchant and explorer, born in Chioggia, who travelled to India and Southeast Asia, and possibly to Southern China, during the early 15th century. In about 1421 he crossed to Pedir (north Sumatra), where he spent a year, gaining knowledge of its cannibalistic natives, camphor, pepper and gold. The account of his travels refers to this island as Taprobana, called by the natives Sciamuthera. He then continued (by a stormy passage of 16 days) to Ternassari (= Tenassarim on the Malay Peninsula), sailed to the mouth of the Ganges, visited Burdwan (in Bangla Desh), then passed overland to Arakan (= Burma). He then passed to the Racha River (= Lemro River in Burma) which he ascended, crossing the mountains to the River Irrawady at Ava, and returning to Panconia (= Pegu ?), from where he sailed to Java. There he spent nine months before continuing to Vijaya in Ciampa (=Champa = north-western Vietnam).[14]</p><p></p><p>His travels have been recorded in writing. In the chapter ‘From Ceylon to Sumatra and the Andaman Islands’, Nicolò de’ Conti of Venice writes: ‘From the island named Sri Lanka …he passed on to the famous island Sumatra and on to a noble city. There he stayed for 12 months. It is six miles in compass and is a famous having great trade of merchandise in that island. From hence he sailed with a prosperous wind, leaving on the right hand the island Andaman which is Is much to say, as the island of gold thither which is 800 miles compass where in the cannibals do live and no stranger go there except it be for necessity of weather and immediately those barbarous people have them in pieces and eat them. [14] ……having departed the island of Sumatra and sailing for fifteen days, he arrived by tempest of weather unto entrance of river Tenasserim. In this region there are many elephants and there grows much sparan wood. [15]</p><p></p><p>Thus Kauda’s place can be related to the belt Sumatra-Tennaserim-Arkan. Further research is needed to select the exact location of this episode in this area.</p><p></p><p><strong>References</strong></p><p></p><p>[1] Surinder Singh Kohli Dr, 1978, Travels of Guru Nanak, p.56</p><p></p><p>[2] Drakard, Jane,1999, A Kingdom of Words: Language and Power in Sumatra. Oxford University Press, ISBN 983-56-0035-X</p><p></p><p>[3] Munoz,Early Kingdom, p. 175.</p><p></p><p>[4] Sneddon, James N., 2003.The Indonesian Langage: its history and role in the modern society. UNSW Press.p. 65, ISBN 9780868405988.</p><p></p><p>[5]Macdonell, Arthur Anthony (1924).A practical Sanskrit dictionary with transliteration, accentuation and etymological analysis, Motilal Banarsidass Publ. p. 347, ISBN 9788120920005.</p><p></p><p>[6] Giani Lal Singh Sangrur, 1940, p.71</p><p></p><p>[7] Surinder Singh Kohli, 1978, Travels of Guru Nanak, Chandigarh, Punjab University, (2nd end) p.57</p><p></p><p>[8] Bhai Vir Singh (ed.), August 1926 , Puratan Janamsakhi, New Delhi, Bhai Veer Singh Sahit Sadan, Jan 2006, 15th edition, p. 154 “Tad-hon Baba Dhanasri Des jai niklia’’</p><p></p><p>[9] Ibid, p.154 “Tad-hon samundar ke bareti ke adh vich Bhakh Walait ni hai. Uha raksh aadmi bhakhda tha.Dhanasri Des ka’’.</p><p></p><p>[10] Surinder Singh Kohli (Dr) ed.,1995, Janamsakhi Bhai Bala, Chandigarh, Punjab University, 2nd edition pp. 156-158.</p><p></p><p>[11] Bhai Veer Singh (ed.), August 1926, Puratan Janamsakhi pp.149-151</p><p></p><p>[12] ibid pp.152-154</p><p></p><p>[13]Surinder Singh Kohli (Dr) ed., 1995, Janamsakhi Bhai Bala, pp. 156-158.</p><p></p><p>[14]<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tenasserim_Hills" target="_blank">Tenasserim Hills - Wikipedia</a> retrieved on 28/02/2015</p><p></p><p>[15] Jackfruit (Artocarpus champeden) is the fruit of plants from the family Moraceae.Fruit shape, flavor Southeast Asia, and spread from Tenasserim region of Burma, the Malay Peninsula, including Thailand, and partly archipelago: Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi, Maluku up to Papua; also a common sight in western Java. Monthly Archives: November 2013, Benefits of fruit Cempedak, November 24; Originally posted on Bakulatz.</p><p></p><p>[16] Nicolò de’ Conti of Venice: Early Fifteenth Century Travels in the East: Translated by John Frampton in the late sixteenth century Notes by Kennon Breazeale East-West Center, SOAS Bulletin of Burma Research, Vol. 2, No. 2, Autumn 2004, p. 110 ISSN 1479-8484, s://www.soas.ac.uk/sbbr/editions/file64309.pdf</p><p>[From] the ilande named Zaylan [Sri Lanka] ... he passed unto the famous ilande named Taprobana [Sumatra], which the Indians calle Scyamucera, 2 where is a noble Citie, and there he has a twelve month: it is sixe miles in compasse, and is a famous Citie, having greate trade of Merchandise there, and in al that Island. From hence he sayled with a prosperous winde, leaving on the right hand the iland Adamania, 3 which is as much to say, as the Ilande of Golde, whyche is 800 myles compasse, wherein the Evitrofagitas 4 doe live, and no straungers goe thyther, except it be for necessity of weather, and immediately those barabrous people hewe them in peeces, and eate them. (extract from p.110)……..</p><p></p><p>[17] Ibid, Tenasserim: Having [departed] the iland of Taprobana, and sayling fifteene days, he arrived by tempest of weather, unto the entring of a river called Tenaserim, 7and in this region there be manye Elephants, and there groweth much Brasill.(sparan wood)</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="dalvinder45, post: 225153, member: 26009"] [CENTER][B]SUMATRA [ATTACH type="full"]22460[/ATTACH][/B][/CENTER] [B] Map 26.1 Sumatra [/B] After visiting the capital of Majapahit, he visited other areas of Java, Bali and Ayudhya and started his return journey through Sumatra. . Sumatra was known in ancient times by the Sanskrit names of Swarnadwīpa ("Island of Gold") and Swarnabhūmi ("Land of Gold"), because of the gold deposits of the island's highland.[1] The first word mentioning the name of Sumatra was the name of Srivijiyan (king) Sumatrabhumi ("King of the land of Sumatra") [2] who sent an envoy to China in 1017. One of the earliest known kingdoms was Kantoli, which flourished in the 5th century CE in southern Sumatra. Kantoli was replaced by the Empire of Srivijaya and then later by the King of Samudra. Srivijaya was a Buddhist monarchy centered in what is now Palembang.[3] Late in the 14th century the name Sumatra became popular from the word Samudra. It is with reference to the kingdom of Samudra Pasai, a rising power until it was taken over by Sultanate of Aceh. Sultan Alauddin Shah of Aceh, on letters written in 1602 addressed to Queen Elizabeth I of England, referred to himself as "king of Aceh and Samudra".[4] The word itself is from Sanskrit “Samudra”. [5] [ATTACH type="full"]22461[/ATTACH] [B] Map 26.2. of geological formation of Sumatra Island[/B] The longest axis of the island runs approximately 1,790 km (1,110 mi) northwest–southeast, crossing the equator near the centre. At its widest point, the island spans 435 km (270 mi). The interior of the island is dominated by two geographical regions: the Barisan Mountains in the west and swampy plains in the east. To the southeast is Java, separated by the Sunda Trait. To the north is the Malay Peninsula, separated by the Strait of Malacca. To the east is Borneo, across the Karimata Strait. West of the island is the Indian Ocean. The backbone of the island is the Barisan Mountain chain, with the active volcano Mount Kerinci as the highest point at 3,805 m (12,467 ft), located at about the midpoint of the range. The volcanic activity of this region endowed the region with fertile land and beautiful sceneries, for instance around lake Toba. It also contains deposits of coal and gold. The volcanic activity stems from Sumatra's location on the Pacific Ring of Fire- which is also the reason why Sumatra has had some of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded. Sumatra is not particularly densely populated, with just over 100 people per km2 – more than 50 million people in total. Because of its great extent, it is nonetheless the fourth most populous island in the world. The most populous regions include most of North Sumatra and central highlands in West Sumatra, while the major urban centers are Medan and Palembang. Most probably it was beyond South East Asia, may be either in Microasia or Marshal Islands. Dr Kohli and Gyani Lala Singh Sangrur even mentioned that Guru Nanak visited China, Japan and Australia. This needs further research. The sea routes to the entire world had become open and the ships moved on silk and spice route very often. To board a ship would have been difficult because of the permissibility of pilgrims on explorer or trading ships. Keeping this in view, Guru Nanak might have travelled in shorter sea routes normally i.e., from island to island, though Bhai Bala records two of journeys to be long as well which he might have managed with the help of his followers. The prominent sea routed frequented at his time were silk route and spice route as given below One such follower was Mansukh, who tied up Guru’s visit to King Shiv Nabh of Sri Lanka. the kings like Sudhar Sain, Madhur Bain, Dev loot, Kawal Nain who became Guru’s followers also would have helped in travelling on long routes. It is also likely that Guru Nanak went further on this route to Philippines and China. According to Giani Lal Singh Sangruru, the Guru went further to Nanking in Chibna. He gave the message to Burma, China and Japan to various Boddhis and Jainins as follows: Remaining dirty day and night the God’s Name is not preferred. The real truth and purity cannot be achieved without the word. (Var Malar) and ‘Tearing hairs of head, drinking the extra and eating half eaten and by borrowing; smelling the latrines and having discarded water In number of places in China Guru Nanak’s idol worship continues. People remember him as Baba Fusa. Due to lack of preaching and care the memorials could not be constructed. Guru Nanak held discussions with Lama Gurus and gave them the message of One God and True Naam. Many Jainis and Boddhis became followers of Guru Nanak. [6] Dr Surinder Singh Kohli mentions, “Sea trade has been going on in these lands and islands.[7] [B]Meeting Kauda, The Cannibal[/B] [ATTACH type="full"]22462[/ATTACH] [B]Photo 26.1 Guru Nanak saving Mardana from being boiled in hot oil by Koda Rakshash[/B] Guru Nanak’s travels to Dhanasari Des and meeting Kauda cannibal have been found recorded in Janamsakhis. Puratan Janamsakhi [6] mentions episode of Kauda cannibal related to Dhanasari Des on an island.[7] Janamsakhi Bhai Bala [8] too has the episode of Kauda Cannibal. Puratan Janamsakhi has two more episodes connected with Guru Nanak’s visit to Dhanasri before this. The first is connected with Khwaja Khidar: Guru Nanak’s companions copy local Muslims and start offering fish to the river most probably Tenasserim taking as Khwaja Khidar. Guru Nanak stopped them from this practice quoting: “Athhe pahri athh khand….dukh(u) such(u) khasmai paas(i) (SGGS p.146) and “Paun(u) guru paanee pita….keti chhutee naal(i) (SGGS p.8) [9] The other episode is of redeeming a Jain monk and his followers telling them not to get into dirty practices like picking heir from their heads, eating leftovers, smelling excreta, getting their heads clean shaven etc. and asked them to be clean and remember God’ Name. He explained; “Sach-hon orai sabh ko upar sach aachar” and sang two hymns: “Satigur(u) hoi dayal t shardha poorie…. Satigur(u) hoi dayal t sach(i) samaie.” (SGGS, p.149) and “Sir khohai peeah(i) malwani….ja pat(i) rakhai soi. (SGGS 149-50)”[10]. They all became Guru Nanak’s followers. Here the third episode of Kauda as recorded in Janam Sakhi Bhai Bala is given: “There is a kingdom of Asrapnah in a foreign land. Guru Nanak started his next visit to the place, known it to be the seat of Jhanda Badhi. As they were passing through an island, Mardana revolted. Guru Nanak was keen to redeem someone but Mardana insisted on not going any further and asked to be relieved. Guru Nanak said: “The route is full of troubles for a lone person. You would not know what would happen and when. It is better that you be with us.” Mardana insisted on leaving. Mardana asked Bala to explain him the situation. Bala said, “He is crossing his limits. You being Nanak Nirankari can control him. If some demon catches him Mardana will be no more.” Due to his continuous insistence, Guru Nanak did not restrain him. Once Mardan left, nothing was known of him for a day. Guru stayed in the jungle. Second day, at noon, Guru Nanak said to Bala, “Mardana is going to be roasted in a boiling cauldron.” Bala had been quite fed up of Mardana’s irritating behaviour and did not ponder over what the Guru said. He said in anger: “Let him be boiled.” Guru Nanak said: “You must feel responsibility of saving you companion. He is of great worth not only for us but for many others whom he helps getting redeemed.” Guru Nanak and Bhai Bala started towards the direction Mardana had gone. They saw a fire below a cauldron filled with oil for cooking someone. Bala said, “The cauldron containing boiling oil is for cooking Mardana. How can we wait and watch when Mardana is being roasted alive by the cannibal?” Guru Nanak said, “Let us see what God does.” They started watching from behind the bushes. When Kauda put Mardana in burning cauldron nothing happened to Mardana. It looked as if the boiling cauldron has frozen and fire has gone off. Demon was astonished. Guru Nanak came out of hiding and said, “Kauda! Why are you not eating Mardana? Why have you kept him safe?” Kauda said: “How do you know my name? I am surprised. Where were you born? Please tell me the truth”. Guru Nanak sang a hymn in Rag Maru: “The egg of doubt has burst; my mind has been enlightened. The Guru has shattered the shackles on my feet, and has set me free. My coming and going in reincarnation is ended. The boiling cauldron has cooled down; the Guru has blessed me with the cooling, soothing Naam, the Name of the Lord. Since I joined the Company of the Holy, those who were eyeing me have left. The One who tied me up, has released me; what can the Watchman of Death do to me now? The load of my karma has been removed, and I am now free of karma. I have crossed the world-ocean, and reached the other shore; the Guru has blessed me with this Dharma. True is my place, and True is my seat; I have made Truth my life’s purpose. True is my capital and True is the merchandise, which Nanak has placed into the home of the heart. (SGGS, p.1002) Kauda cannibal understood that he was facing a great saint who had caste his spell on him. He fell at Guru’s feet. He did not get up and kept on requesting forgiveness for his evil deeds. Guru Nanak said, “You have hurt rebec player Mardana; now he only can help your redemption. You will be emancipated if you accept the fact.” Kauda said, “He too is acceptable to me. Whosoever you say is acceptable to me. But you must not keep me away.” Guru Nanak laughed looked at Bhai Bala inquisitively, who said, “You only know what you ought to do.” Kauda requested Guru Nanak: “Please give me some order.” Guru Nanak said, “Go and bring something for hungry Mardana to eat.” Kauda ran to the jungle and brought fruits. Mardana and Bala happily enjoyed the fruits but Guru Nanak gave his share to Kauda. Having eaten the fruit, Kauda came into ecstasy. He was enlightened. Mardana and Bala were astonished and enquired as to how a cannibal had been emancipated. Guru Nanak explained: “He was waiting for redemption since ages. God has sent me to redeem him. This is done now. God’s ways are great. What all is shown by God to you, please enjoy the same.” They stayed for seven days with Kauda. Kauda was established as a religious preacher in the area. All the demons in the area too were redeemed with the True Company of the Guru and became Guru’s followers. [11] The area cited is Dhanasri. Dhanasri is Tenasserim then under Majapahit Kingdom but now partly under Burma, partly under Malay and partly under Singapore. It is also touching Ayudhya kingdom; now in Thailand (earlier known as Siam). In Burma it is a province known as Taninthary and name Tenasserim is spelt as Tanawsri, Tanao Sri, Tanaw Sri in Burmese; Tanah Seri in Malay and Thio Khao Tanaosi in Thai. 12] It is located on Tenasserim hills and the settlements are along river Tenasserim. Asparan or Sparan are the jackfruit grown along Tenasserim River [13] Sparan is also the wood which is grown in plenty in Tenassserim on which this jackfruit sparan grows. Tenasserim’s pronunciation as Tanawsri is very close to Dhanasari. Being one of the full fledged states in Burma, it is a well known country or ‘des’. This region is all along the sea enclosing it from east, west and south. Burma, Tanesserim, Malay and Sumatra fall with in South East Asia and was then part of Majapahit kingdom. There were frequent travels from Chittagong to Tenassarim en route to East Asian and China. One was Niccolo who visited the area in the preceding century before Guru Nanak’s visit. Niccolò de' Conti (1395–1469) visited the area in 1421 and mentioned that the area was infested with cannibals. Niccolo was a Venetia merchant and explorer, born in Chioggia, who travelled to India and Southeast Asia, and possibly to Southern China, during the early 15th century. In about 1421 he crossed to Pedir (north Sumatra), where he spent a year, gaining knowledge of its cannibalistic natives, camphor, pepper and gold. The account of his travels refers to this island as Taprobana, called by the natives Sciamuthera. He then continued (by a stormy passage of 16 days) to Ternassari (= Tenassarim on the Malay Peninsula), sailed to the mouth of the Ganges, visited Burdwan (in Bangla Desh), then passed overland to Arakan (= Burma). He then passed to the Racha River (= Lemro River in Burma) which he ascended, crossing the mountains to the River Irrawady at Ava, and returning to Panconia (= Pegu ?), from where he sailed to Java. There he spent nine months before continuing to Vijaya in Ciampa (=Champa = north-western Vietnam).[14] His travels have been recorded in writing. In the chapter ‘From Ceylon to Sumatra and the Andaman Islands’, Nicolò de’ Conti of Venice writes: ‘From the island named Sri Lanka …he passed on to the famous island Sumatra and on to a noble city. There he stayed for 12 months. It is six miles in compass and is a famous having great trade of merchandise in that island. From hence he sailed with a prosperous wind, leaving on the right hand the island Andaman which is Is much to say, as the island of gold thither which is 800 miles compass where in the cannibals do live and no stranger go there except it be for necessity of weather and immediately those barbarous people have them in pieces and eat them. [14] ……having departed the island of Sumatra and sailing for fifteen days, he arrived by tempest of weather unto entrance of river Tenasserim. In this region there are many elephants and there grows much sparan wood. [15] Thus Kauda’s place can be related to the belt Sumatra-Tennaserim-Arkan. Further research is needed to select the exact location of this episode in this area. [B]References[/B] [1] Surinder Singh Kohli Dr, 1978, Travels of Guru Nanak, p.56 [2] Drakard, Jane,1999, A Kingdom of Words: Language and Power in Sumatra. Oxford University Press, ISBN 983-56-0035-X [3] Munoz,Early Kingdom, p. 175. [4] Sneddon, James N., 2003.The Indonesian Langage: its history and role in the modern society. UNSW Press.p. 65, ISBN 9780868405988. [5]Macdonell, Arthur Anthony (1924).A practical Sanskrit dictionary with transliteration, accentuation and etymological analysis, Motilal Banarsidass Publ. p. 347, ISBN 9788120920005. [6] Giani Lal Singh Sangrur, 1940, p.71 [7] Surinder Singh Kohli, 1978, Travels of Guru Nanak, Chandigarh, Punjab University, (2nd end) p.57 [8] Bhai Vir Singh (ed.), August 1926 , Puratan Janamsakhi, New Delhi, Bhai Veer Singh Sahit Sadan, Jan 2006, 15th edition, p. 154 “Tad-hon Baba Dhanasri Des jai niklia’’ [9] Ibid, p.154 “Tad-hon samundar ke bareti ke adh vich Bhakh Walait ni hai. Uha raksh aadmi bhakhda tha.Dhanasri Des ka’’. [10] Surinder Singh Kohli (Dr) ed.,1995, Janamsakhi Bhai Bala, Chandigarh, Punjab University, 2nd edition pp. 156-158. [11] Bhai Veer Singh (ed.), August 1926, Puratan Janamsakhi pp.149-151 [12] ibid pp.152-154 [13]Surinder Singh Kohli (Dr) ed., 1995, Janamsakhi Bhai Bala, pp. 156-158. [14][URL="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tenasserim_Hills"]Tenasserim Hills - Wikipedia[/URL] retrieved on 28/02/2015 [15] Jackfruit (Artocarpus champeden) is the fruit of plants from the family Moraceae.Fruit shape, flavor Southeast Asia, and spread from Tenasserim region of Burma, the Malay Peninsula, including Thailand, and partly archipelago: Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi, Maluku up to Papua; also a common sight in western Java. Monthly Archives: November 2013, Benefits of fruit Cempedak, November 24; Originally posted on Bakulatz. [16] Nicolò de’ Conti of Venice: Early Fifteenth Century Travels in the East: Translated by John Frampton in the late sixteenth century Notes by Kennon Breazeale East-West Center, SOAS Bulletin of Burma Research, Vol. 2, No. 2, Autumn 2004, p. 110 ISSN 1479-8484, s://www.soas.ac.uk/sbbr/editions/file64309.pdf [From] the ilande named Zaylan [Sri Lanka] ... he passed unto the famous ilande named Taprobana [Sumatra], which the Indians calle Scyamucera, 2 where is a noble Citie, and there he has a twelve month: it is sixe miles in compasse, and is a famous Citie, having greate trade of Merchandise there, and in al that Island. From hence he sayled with a prosperous winde, leaving on the right hand the iland Adamania, 3 which is as much to say, as the Ilande of Golde, whyche is 800 myles compasse, wherein the Evitrofagitas 4 doe live, and no straungers goe thyther, except it be for necessity of weather, and immediately those barabrous people hewe them in peeces, and eate them. (extract from p.110)…….. [17] Ibid, Tenasserim: Having [departed] the iland of Taprobana, and sayling fifteene days, he arrived by tempest of weather, unto the entring of a river called Tenaserim, 7and in this region there be manye Elephants, and there groweth much Brasill.(sparan wood) [/QUOTE]
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Travels of Guru Nanak: A Brief
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