11. Kappalilĕ (In the Ship)

This humorous song, performed at parties during the week after the wedding, can be compared to traditional songs of Kerala boatmen. The bridegroom, the bride and their attendants are portrayed sailing in a  wind-tossed ship, with sails made of silk. Adding to the merriment are the phrases "Elā elo" - echoing the cries of boatmen calling out to each other as they row - and “Ta tintaka", perhaps in imitation of Kerala drum or dance rhythms.

Text

In the ship is storm and wind, storm and wind. Ta tintaka.
In the ship is storm and wind, storm.Ta tintaka.
Into the ship they entered in, entered in. Ta tintaka
In the ship of the bridegroom, the bride went in.
In the ship of the bride, the bridegroom went in.
Elā elo, elā elo, elā elo.

In the ship is storm and wind, storm and wind. Ta tintaka.
From silk the sails are made, sails are made. Ta tintaka.
With pearls the anchor is dropped, anchor is dropped. Ta tintaka.
From precious silver and velvet and silk,
In green and red color their clothing is made.
The long sea boat is sailing and searching.
All sit together, rejoicing and singing.
Elā elo, elā elo, elā elo.