Raghunatha restores what has been lost and befriends the poor; he is a straightforward and powerful master. In this belief the wise sing the glory of Hari and sanctify their speech and make it fruitful of all good.

It is on this strength that I proceed to tell the story of Raghupati’s virtues, bowing my head to Rama’s feet. The divine bards of old have sung Hari’s glorious renown; it will be easy for me, my friend, to follow in their footsteps.

A river may be very broad, but if kings get bridges constructed across it, even the tiniest ants may mount them and cross to the other side with ease.

Reassuring the mind in this manner, I shall relate the charming story of Raghunatha. I do homage to the lotus feet of Vyasa and the other famous poets who have reverently recounted the blessed glory of Hari.

I bow to the lotus feet of them all; let them fulfil all my desires! I reverence also the poets of this Kaliyuga, who have recounted all the perfections of Raghupati.

To all those bards of high intelligence who have told of the acts of Hari in Prakrit and the vulgar tongue, those who have been in time past, and who now are, and who hereafter shall be, I pay sincere respect.

Show me your favour and grant this boon, that my song may be honoured in assemblies of good men. If the wise esteem not his poetry, the stupid poet has had all his labour in vain.