The heroes of the Vadakkan Pattu, 

Known for their valor and strength, 

Exponents of Kalaripayattu they were, 

Called the Chekavar clan. 

Hired by the small rulers

Of Kolathunadu and Kadathanadu, 

To fight and die for them, 

The chekavars were real warriors. 

Thacholi Othenan, Thacholi Ambu, 

Chanthu Chekavar, Unniyarcha, 

All lived through the vadakkan paattu, 

And as I pen this down, 

The songs hum in my heart. 

Vadakkan Pattu – Northern ballad
Kalaripayattu – martial art form of Kerala