Kunnutaiya Part XI: The Wise Elder

• Now that Kunnutaiya has two sons, a naming ceremony for them is arranged. The daughter already had her ceremony years ago.
  

• The two sons are smart and full of energy. They soon ask their mother what animals the family has outside in the fields.   

• The boys learn there are horses and they soon learn to ride them bareback!   

• But Kunnutaiya himself is growing old. His wife Tamarai is worried that their sons are not yet married. She can hardly eat.
  

• So Kunnutaiya and his wife call their sons. Both sons agree to marry but vow that they will never physically touch their wives.
  

• The wedding takes place but it is strange. It happens far from a village and there are no relatives present.
  

• Soon after the marriage the two wives are locked in their own palace. Their husbands never visit.
  

• Now Kunnutaiya and Tamarai sense that the end is near. They call their two sons before them.
  

• Kunnutaiya talks about how they must respect their neighbours and their clansmen, how they should stay calm and not hold any old grudges.
  

• Tamarai speaks about their daughter Tangal. The two boys need to show her respect and listen to her requests.
  

• The two brothers touch their parents’ feet and promise to obey their instructions.
  

• Then Kunnutaiya and Tamarai quickly pass away. The three children and the palace maids say their last goodbyes.
  

• Next the spirits that belong to the couple leave their bodies.
  

• Outside Yeman is ready. He will carry both these spirits back to Lord Shiva’s Council Chambers high above.
  

[<==Back to part 8]