44. pUvaik koduththEnO mAlAkAraraip pOlE

Krishna and Balarama entered Mathura to take part in the archery event organized by Kamsa. On the way, they met a washerman first. They asked him for some new clothes, but he refused. So, they defeated him, took some clothes, put them on and left. Then they wished to wear new and fragrant flowers. So, they entered a small street and reached the home of a florist. Bhagavatam says that his name was Sudama. Upon seeing them both, Sudama recognized their greatness and fell at their feet.

The two, who looked like freshly blossomed lotuses themselves, asked him for flowers. Sudama praised them and gave them wonderful flowers to wear. Our acharyas wonder at the fact that a florist who would cover his own face to avoid being attracted to flowers and using them himself instead of selling them, would give the best garlands that he had due to the great love he felt for the Lord. Krishna was pleased by the affection shown by the mAlakAra 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 Azhvars and Acharyas seeked to perform flower service to the Lord.

Thirukkolur Ammal is asking "Did I show the selfless love exhibited by mAlAkAra?"