Nurungukal  cntd......

                                Our next joyful event in Anakara was the kalapoottu. The entire community, especially the farmers and farm workers took part in it. It is connected with the transplantation of paddy.  The entire stretch of fields would have been already prepared for transplanting paddy seedlings. In the middle a big plot would be prepared specially for conducting the kalapoottu. The level of water and the depth of the mud is to be maintained properly so that the animals can run at high speed without skidding.  From early morning the preparations commence under the guidance pf experienced hands. The entire event will be managed by one or two big land lords. They organise such events to project their image and power. Many such families have , in later years become bankrupts, as these shows depletes their funds .

                                One such character was a cosine of my brother-in-law.  It  was a sight to see him going round the field shouting gesturing at people, in his silk juba and dark glass. Short in stature but a bundle of energy he maintained a charismatic control over the event till the end. My brother-in-law’s younger brother would hold a low profile yet others took his advice very seriously and held him in high esteem.  Many young volunteers would be moving around , with a head dress and tucked dhothi ready to take up responsibiliyies. Food and tea would be always  at your call. A little bit away from the field clandestine sale of other drinks would exhilarate the mela. Groups of men and village damsels clustered here and there enjoying the activities and waiting  joyfully for the entry of the animals. Occasionally they would also be singing loudly  couplets of popular nadan pattu, which would be reciprocated by the entire crowd with a clap and whistling.

                                Before noon the oxen and buffaloes would start reaching,  pair by pair. They would be positioned  at different places, and immediately the crowd in groups surrounded them, eagerly in search of their profiles. These animals were controlled by robust farm workers half clad and drenched in mud and water, Each of these animals were owned by rich farmers hailing from many parts of Palghat and adjacent area. The selection of animals are very meticulously done considering their pedigree and physical features. They were trained and nurtured with utmost care, and each would cost a few thousands even in those days.......to be contd......