pUvaik koduththEnO mAlAkAraraip pOlE
Krishna and Balrama reached Mathura along with Akrura, accepting the invitation of King Kamsa. Looking at the people and the new lifestyle in Mathura which is no way like that in Gokulam, they too decided to look not like an outsider! They got new clothes from a washerman and when they wished to wear new and fragrant flowers, they entered a small street in the market place and reached for the home of a Malakara. Malakara is referred to people who make garlands.
Bhagavatam says that the florist’s name was Sudhama. Upon seeing them both, Sudhama recognized their greatness and fell at their feet. The two, who looked like freshly blossomed lotuses themselves, asked him for flowers. Sudhama praised them and gave them an attractive garland made with the most beautiful and fragrant flowers. Before giving the garland to them, Sudhama covered his face with a piece of cloth, so that he would not be captivated at the looks of the garland and also, he would make sure the best garland reached the Lord in the best way, without his heart having any worries for him, not being able to wear that flower! Such was the love of Sudhama towards the Lord. Krishna was pleased by the affection shown by Sudhama and gave him several boons.
Swami Ramanuja praises Sudama along with Akrura in his Gita Bashyam. It is due to this that many of our Azhwars and Acharyas seek to perform flower service to the Lord.
Thirukkolur Ammal is asking "Did I show the selfless love exhibited by Malakara?"
