Narayana Guru - 1856-1928

Nanu Becomes Nanu Asan

Young Nanu was slim, active and clever. He had good physique. He showed great interest both in studies and in games. His writing was correct and easy to read. He excelled his companions in hitting a mark; at one attempt he could bring down a mango on a branch far above.
Nanu left home and went to Karunagapalli, a village fifty miles away from his native place. He studied under a generous and liberal-minded teacher called Kummampally Raman Pillai Asan. Raman Pillai taught Nanu with love. Soon Nanu became a scholar in Samskrita. He studied the Vedas and the Upanishads. He led a pure life. His knowledge earned him the respect of many. He became famous as Nanu Asan.
Nanu returned once to his village to see his father, who was on his death bed. It was a great joy to the father to see his son after a long time. He was proud of his son who had become an Asan too. He addressed him as a Vidwan (scholar). He also desired to be fed by his sacred hands.