"Kaulana NÃÂ Pua" ("Famous Are the Flowers") is a Hawaiian patriotic song written by Eleanor Kekoaohiwaikalani Wright Prendergast in 1893 for members of the Royal Hawaiian Band
who protested the overthrow of Queen Liliûuokalani and the Hawaiian Kingdom. The song is also known under the titles of "Mele ûAi Pà Âhaku" ("Stone-Eating Song") or "Mele Aloha ûÃÂina" ("Patriot's Song"). It is still popular in Hawaii today, although it is not clear how many non-Hawaiian speaking listeners are aware of the song's historical significance or the profound antipathy to U.S. annexation in its lyrics.
According to Elbert and Mahoe (1970), "The song was considered sacred and not for dancing." However, today hÃÂlau hula perform "Kaulana NàPua" as a hula ûauana for makuahine (a graceful dance for mature women).
The "government" referred to in the song is the Provisional Government of Hawaii (which was later to become the Republic of Hawaii and subsequently the territory and state), proclaimed by the conspirators upon seizing power. Mrs. Prendergast composed the song for the Royal Hawaiian Band, who:
The Hawaiian Renaissance has lent the song "Kaulana NÃÂ Pua" renewed significance in recent years. Its words are often cited in the context of the Hawaiian sovereignty movement as an expression of opposition to U.S. rule.