Tansen

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Tansen was a famous singer in Emperor Akbar's court. He performed in the Badshahi Fort and won great renown for his melodious voice that rang like silver bells.

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Ignoble means 'not worthy' or 'lacking honor'. The 'ignoble crowd' refers to ordinary people of the world who are concerned with material wealth and worldly matters.

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When Tansen sang the Song of Fire (Deepak Raga) with great vigor, his body burst into consuming flames. The intense music created such a powerful effect that it caused his body to burn like a pyre.

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A maiden came and sang Malhar, the song of water cold. This cooled his burning body and restored his health and comfort as before.

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Akbar praised Tansen greatly, gave him many gems, and called him the 'chief jewel in his diadem' (crown). The emperor was ravished (delighted) by Tansen's voice.

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Celestial means 'heavenly' or 'divine'. In the poem, it refers to the heavenly quality of the Ostad's (teacher's) song that Akbar wished to hear.

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The Ostad lived in a cave in the Himalayas, far away from the world. He chose this remote location because he scorned worldly wealth and was lifted above earthly things, dedicating himself to divine m…

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Tansen advised Akbar that the Ostad, being above worldly things, disdained to sing to earthly kings. To hear the divine music, Akbar had to come humbly as a slave rather than as a proud emperor.