Thallayyapillai of Manapad was a versatile genius. He was a poet, composer, singer, and a Pattas – Maker. He was a man of simple habits and sported the longest moustache I had ever known. Definitely his long moustache could not rival the one in the Guinness book of records but surely it was long enough to be wound around and knotted in any part of his big head.

He was hardly fifth standard educated but could compose with perfect ease innumerable Palais ( probably Pamalais—ed) for every occasion ; feasts, processions, and funerals of prominent citizens of Manapad. Of course he was at his best , when he was under the influence of inebriating spirit.

Thallayya Pillai’s Pattas Industry added to the grandeur of every festive occasion in Manapad. His pattas was a small Hand Grenade made out of Gunpowder, and small stones wrapped tight inside old newspapers and fastened to a string. When flung with force on a hard surface it exploded with a loud bang.

During the feast of St. Antony he was more than inspired. He sang his Palais after Benediction throughout the Novena and on the feast day, at every street corner during the procession.

I wonder whether the custom of singing Palais still continues. And even if it does, can the Palais come up to the standard set by our Poet Laureate? It looked as if no joyous or sorrowful occasion was complete without Thallayyapillais Pattas and Palais.

All in all , he was one of those grand old men, who knew how to live by their wits and to live with dignity with very few wants. For the rest ,they believed in God who feeds the birds of the air and clothes the Lilies of the field.

By Very Rev. Fr. Anslem Miranda.