Knock Knock, Who's There? Exploring the Cultural Roots of this Timeless Tradition

Knock knock jokes have been a running joke in various cultures for centuries, often used to crack a smile or even prank someone. From classic ones like 'An Owl' to more modern spin-offs, the concept remains a beloved part of humorous traditions worldwide. However, there's an interesting twist in how this age-old tradition began, rooted in the rich cultural context of ancient Sanskrit literature.

Classic Knock Knock Jokes

Let's revisit some of the most iconic knock knock jokes that have entertained generations:

Knock knock.
Who’s there?
An Owl.
An Owl who…
Who……Wh-
An Owl who ignores and look away Knock knock.
Whos there?
Boo.
Boo who?
Dont cry its just a joke! Knock knock.
Whos there?
Lettuce.
Lettuce who?
Lettuce in its cold out here! Knock knock.
Whos there?
Atch.
Atch who?
Bless you! Knock knock.
Whos there?
Cow says.
Cow says who?
Cow says moooo! Knock knock.
Whos there?
Harry.
Harry who?
Harry up and answer the door!

These jokes have been passed down through generations, often causing a chuckle and a bit of surprise with their clever play on words. But let’s delve deeper into the origins of this beloved tradition.

The Origin of Knock Knock in Sanskrit Literature

The concept of funny dialogues and witty exchanges is not entirely new. In fact, there is an intricate knock-knock joke rooted in ancient Sanskrit texts, which portrays a witty conversation between Lord Krishna and Srimati Radharani. This particular joke is mentioned in several Sanskrit works, including Subhāitāvali by Vallabhadeva, Krishnakarāmrutam by Sri Bilvamangala Thakura, Subhāita-ratna-koa by Vidyakara, and Padyāvalī by Srila Rupa Goswami.

Background

According to Subhāitāvali 130 of Vallabhadeva, Lord Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, knock on the door of Srimati Radharani’s house. The exchange that follows showcases the multifaceted meanings of words in Sanskrit, leading to a humorous and clever conversation.

Sanskrit Composition

agulyā ka kavāa praharati kuile mādhava ki vasanto no cakrī ki kulālo na hi dharai-dhara ki dvijihva phaīndra nāha ghorāhi-mardī kim asi khaga-patir no hari ki kapīo rādhā-vāībhir ittha prahasita-vadana pātu va cakra-pāi

Here’s a detailed explanation for each line of the dialogue:

agulyā ka kavāa praharati kuile mādhava ki vasanto no cakrī ki kulālo na hi dharai-dhara ki dvijihva phaīndra nāha ghorāhi-mardī kim asi khaga-patir no hari ki kapīo rādhā-vāībhir - Lord Krishna asking who is knocking, implying Radha as lecherous and giving her a bunch of glances (not really a great image to have of Radha). itra prahasita-vadana pātu va cakra-pāi - Lord Krishna making a cute smile and asking Radha to take care of His Sudarshan Chakra (discus weapon).

Explanations

Lord Krishna:

Knock Knock. Radha: Who knocks on the door with his fingers. Lord Krishna: O crooked Radhika! It is me Madhava! Radha: interpreting “mādhava” as referring to the spring season: Are you the spring season personified? Lord Krishna: No I am Chakra-dhari wielder of the Sudarshan disc! Radha: interpreting “cakrī” as one whose work is to make clay pots on a wheel: Are you a potter? Lord Krishna: Oh mad girl I am Dharani-dhara lifter of the earth Varahadeva! Radha: interpreting “dharai-dhara” as Ananta sesha who lifts the entire universe including the earth: Oh so you are that big two-tongued snake- Ananta sesha Lord Krishna: No No I am Ghorahi-mardī the one who destroys the pride of even great fearsome snakes such as Kaliya! Radha: interpreting “ghorāhi-mardī” as Garuda: Oh so you are Garuda the king of birds Lord Krishna: No I am Your enchanting Hari! Radha interpreting ‘Hari’ as king of monkeys: Oh so you are the king of the monkeys Hanuman I am very scared of monkeys. If you are a monkey then return to the forest. We don’t need monkeys in the house.

Thus ends the conversation and the original knock-knock joke.

May Chakra-pani Sri Krishna who smiled at Sri Radha’s sweet and clever words protect you all.

Thank You

Hare Krishna

This humor-rich dialogue not only entertains but also highlights the linguistic prowess of Sanskrit and the playful interaction between two beloved characters. It showcases how ancient texts could be both spiritually profound and humorously clever.

Though rooted in religious and cultural contexts, the essence of a good joke stays the same: it entertains and brings joy to those that hear it. Whether you’re sharing a classic knock knock joke or digging into the Sanskrit roots, the joy of laughter remains universal.