12. Antali Patum Kiḷiyĕ Keḷu (Oh Singing Bird)

A "play song" addressed to a female parrot, who is invited to eat milk and fruit and honey in the wedding pantal, in return for bringing good news. The pantal is a temporary open shelter resembling a sukkah, constructed for the large gatherings associated wiyh weddings and other festive occasions throughout India.

Text

Oh singing bird, listen, listen.
What is the good news of the place?
Red are your lips, and your head is green.
Among the Jews two forests are found.
In the pantal shelter are milk, fruit and honey.
You will get, oh parrot, more than what you see.
If you chance to meet me, tell me good news.
Oh female parrot, wish me "All the best."