Kootiyattam Classical Dramatic Art Form of Kerala

KOOTIYATTAM THE EARLIEST CLASSICAL DRAMATIC ART FORM OF KERALA

Kootiyattam literally means "acting together". This is the earliest classical dramatic art form of Kerala. Based on Sage Bharatha's 'Natyasasthra' who lived in the second century, Kootiyattam evolved in the 9th century AD.

Kootiyattam is a performing art reserved exclusively for the temple theatres in Kerala known as Kootampalams. Though dating its origin precisely is different, reference to kootiyattam exist in ancient literature. The Tamil epic "Silappadikaram" which belongs to the early centuries of the Christian era, affords proof of the existence of the Chakiar tradition. This would point to the art having been in existence for at-least 1800 years and to the fact that there is no other theatre art in India that has endured so long.

Kootiyattam is enacted inside the temple theatre, there are two or more characters onstage at the same time, with the Chakkiars providing the male cast and the Nangiars playing the female roles. The Nangiars beat the cymbals and recite verses in Sanskrit, while in the background Nambiars play the Mizhavu, a large copper drum.

Vidushaka or the wise man, a figure parallel to the Fool in Shakespearean plays, enacts his role with the liberty to criticise anyone without fear. The costume of the jester sets him apart from the rest. The Kootiyattam performance lasts for several days ranging from 6 to 20 days. Themes are based on mythology.

The Koodal Manickyam temple at Irinjalakkuda and the Vadakkumnatha temple at Thrissur are the main centres where Kootiyattam is still performed annually. Ammannoor Madhava Chakkiar is an unrivalled maestro of this rare art.

Performing Kootiyattam is the privilege of the Chakiar caste though members of another caste- Nambiars and their women, the Nangiars assist them.