4. Makka Mŏtu Nikka Pŏka (Golden Palanquin)

A "play song"obscure in meaning, apparently in the voice of a bridegroom asking for advice. The puzzling final lines referring to "six and ten and four" suggest that the song may pose a riddle. The key performers here and in the following play songs are from Kadavumbhagam-Kochi, where play songs were usually performed at parties during the Hanukkah season. In this performance the entire song is repeated at a gradually increasing rate of speed.

Text

Here we are, all of us,
Living here in happiness.
Is there no one hereabouts
Who can give me good advice?
Not one who's "learned like a parrot"--
One with greater wisdom, please!
Bangles I gave to the jealous mother.
What shall I give to the shapely maiden? 
I will give to her the crown -
The great crown for the shapely maiden.
Six and ten and four together
Enter the lavish marriage chamber.
The companions ascend a palanquin,
Leave in a golden palanquin.