(i) The mates of Parāṅkuśa Nāyakī, who had prior knowledge of her contemplated move, dissuaded her, in a low whisper, from going ahead with it, lest the people around should reproach her for her aggressive stance. The Nāyakī was, however, not in the least worried about public opinion; as a matter of fact, she had become impervious to it long back. The Nāyakī stood on a
In this inaugural pAsuram of the chapter, a profound dialogue unfolds between Parāṅkuśa Nāyakī, the Āzhvār immersed in the feminine mood of a beloved, and her concerned friend, or tōzhi. The Nāyakī, consumed by the anguish of separation from her Lord, declares her unshakeable resolve to engage in madal—the ancient practice of publicly proclaiming one's unrequited love