Lyrics ((full)) — Margamkali

Margamkali is a ritualistic folk art and martial dance form practiced by the Saint Thomas Christian (Syrian Christian) community of Kerala, India. While the performance involves graceful, circular choreography mimicking the movements of ancient travelers, its lyrical backbone is a sophisticated repository of theology, history, and social memory. This paper analyzes the structure, themes, linguistic features, and cultural functions of Margamkali lyrics, arguing that they serve not merely as performance accompaniment but as a mnemonic catechism for a minority Christian community navigating a predominantly Hindu culture.

Margam Kalli, Margam Kalli My life, my dear Jesus Margam Kalli, Margam Kalli My heart, my Jesus margamkali lyrics

This duality—warrior-merchant and priest-scholar—is unique. The lyrics do not promote pacifism but a defensive Christianity, necessary for a minority trading community facing pirates and feudal lords. Margamkali is a ritualistic folk art and martial

“Kallilum mulllilum nadannu, shila medichu sleeba sthaapichu...” (“Walking over stone and thorn, they raised stones and planted the cross…”) Margam Kalli, Margam Kalli My life, my dear