Kulli Pattu | Knanaya Judeo-Christian Folk Song | Original Instruments

Описание: Kuli Pattu or bath song is a Knanaya and Cochin Jew folk song sung during the ceremonial wedding bath for the Knanaya and wedding procession for the Cochin Jews. The whole song is not shared by both communities but only certain stanzas.

The folk songs of the Knanaya are ancient in origins. Scholars have found that the text of many these songs indicate that they were created before the introduction of Sanskrit into the Malayalam language and popular culture of Kerala, implying composition sometime during or before the 13th or 14th century (1200-1300 A.D). Tamil and Syriac diction in these songs also support their antiquity. Some songs however, especially renditions of the establishment of newer churches are exceptions to this. It should be noted also that all of these folk songs evolved over time, as they were passed down orally from generation to generation.

Recording from the Knanaya Archeparchy of Kottayam

Cross - Cultural Comparison:

Knanaya "Kulli Pattu" or Bath Song:

"Ponnum methiyadimel melle melle avan natannu
(With golden shoes he slowly walked)
Velli methiyadimel melle melle aval natannu"
(With silver shoes she slowly walked)

Cochin Jewish procession song:

"Ponnum methiyadimel melle natannan, Chiriyanandan,
(With golden shoes Chiriyanandan (Joseph Rabban) slowly walked)
Velli methiyadimel melle natannan, Chiriyanandan"
(With silver shoes Chiriyanandan (Joseph Rabban) slowly walked)

Jussay, P. M. (2005). The Jews of Kerala.