In modern times, the Bharani Pattu is studied as a form of "subaltern" expression. It represents a time when the marginalized classes could enter the temple premises and express themselves freely. Although the explicit nature of the songs is often debated, they remain a vital part of Kerala’s intangible heritage, preserving ancient linguistic patterns and folk metaphors that would otherwise be lost. Finding the Text (PDF)
: The songs are famous for containing explicit, profane, or "filthy" language (often called therippattu ) aimed at the deity. kodungallur bharani pattu pdf 21