Gandhi's favorite hymn

Prayer meetings were an integral part of Gandhi's day. These meetings served more than a spiritual purpose, by being occasions for Gandhi to interact with his followers and admirers, and more importantly - the common citizens of India. Gandhi often articulated his views on current events in these meetings, and was very particular about being on time for them.

Most prayers sung in these meetings were Hindu hymns, but the spirit rather than the letter was poignant for Gandhi. One of Gandhi's favorite hymns is considered to be the Guajarati hymn "Vaishnava janato" composed by the poet-saint Narsinh Mehta (1414-1481); a significant literary figure in Gujarati literature. The hymn describes the qualities of an ideal Vaishnavite (a follower of Lord Vishnu). Although written in Gujarati, the simple lyrics make it easy to understand for anyone with a working knowledge of Hindi (the national language of India). The hymn is set to tune in the mellifluous Indian raga Mishra Khamaj, which also explains its enduring appeal.

The English translation is below (the virtues extolled in the hymn are in italics)

Vaishnava (devotees of Lord Vishnu) people are those who,

Feel the pain of others,
Help those who are in misery,
But never let ego or conceit enter their mind.

Vaishnavas, respect the entire world, Do not censure anyone, Keep their words, actions and thoughts pure, The mother of such a soul is blessed.

Vaishnavas see all equally, renounce greed and avarice, Respects women as he respects his own mother, Their tongue might get tired, but they will never speak falsehood, Their hands would never touch the wealth of another.

Vaishnavas do not succumb to worldly attachments, They are detached from worldly pleasures, They are enticed by the name of God (Shri Ram), All holy sites of pilgrimage are embodied within them.

Vaishnavas encompasses the absence of greed and deceit, They have renounced all types of lust and anger, The author of this poem (Narsi) would be grateful to meet such a soul, By who's virtue, liberates their entire lineage.

It is easy to understand why this hymn struck a chord with Gandhi. Like any true master piece this simple hymn transcends its religious and linguistic boundaries to shine as beacon to all those who wish to lead a virtuous life. A rendition of the hymn is here.