Pulluvan Paattu - appeasing the snake gods

Pulluvas are a community of people in Kerala, South India, who are experts in ritualistic songs. Traditionally they are believed to have the ability to read ill omens and prescribe ways to nullify the effects of these bad omens.

The very name Pulluva (pulluvan) originated from the word Pullu, which is a bird the cry of which is considered to be ominous.

Most of the lyrics of Pulluvan Paattu, or the ritualistic songs sung by the Pulluvas, are related to snake worship. This community in general is musically inclined and they use cymbals and an instrument known as Pulluva Veena in accompaniment to their singing.