Ullavaru Shivaalaya Maadvuvaru

Thanks to Pooja for introducing me to this beautiful poem in Kannada by Basavanna!

Ullavaru Shivalayava Maaduvaru

Naaneena Maadali Badavanayya.

Enna Kaale Kamba, dehave Degula

SHira Honna Kalashavayya.

Koodlasangamadeva, Kelaya

Stahvarakkalivuntu, Jangamakkalivilla

The rich

Will make temples for Shiva.

What shall i,

A poor man,

Do?

My legs are pillars,

The body the shrine,

The head a cupola

Of Gold.

Listen, O lord of the meeting rivers,

Things standing shall fall,

But the moving ever shall stay