avatārikai (Introduction)
In the profound allegorical tradition of nāyaka-nāyikā bhāva, this verse depicts the sacred pangs of separation (viraha-tāpa) experienced by the soul. After a period of blissful union with her Divine Beloved, the nāyikī (the soul, personified by the Āzhvār) is left alone. Her Lord (nāyaka, representing Emperumān), ever considerate