Ramapurathu Warrier

Ramapurathu Warrier (1703–1753) is considered to be the pioneer of the "Vanchipattu" or Boatsong form of poetry in Malayalam language.[1] Vanchippattu is a poetic form of folk origin composed entirely in the Dravidian metre nathonnata.

He was born in Ramapuram, near Palai, in Meenachil Taluk, Kottayam District, Kerala. He was a courtier of two successive Kings of Travancore, viz. Marthanda Varma and Dharma Raja.

The most celebrated work of Ramapurathu Warrier is "Kuchela Vrittam Vanchippattu", which depicts the story of Kuchela, a devotee and an old classmate of Krishna, going to Dwaraka to meet with him. The poem was apparently composed and recited during one of the King's boat journeys in which Warrier was also present. While describing with great poignance the poverty of Kuchela and the benevolence of Krishna, Warrier was indirectly presenting his miseries before the King seeking the King's help. It is considered that Warrier was amply rewarded.

Although composed more than two centuries ago, the poem is still one of the most popular poems of Malayalam language. An annotated edition was published by DC Books.[2]

References

  1. ↑ "Ramapurathu Warrier". Government of Kerala. Retrieved 30 March 2010.
  2. ↑ "DC Books". DC Books. Retrieved 30 March 2010.
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