Seethankanthullal - Among the classical performing arts of Kerala,
Thullal is distinct for its simplicity of presentation, wit and humour.
It follows the classical principles of Natyasasthra (a treatise on
art compiled in the 2nd century B.C).
Thullal is a solo performance combining dance and recitation of stories
in verse. Staged during temple festivals, the performer explicates
the verses through expressive gestures. Themes are based on mythology.
Thullal was introduced in the 18th century by the famous Malayalam
poet Kunchan Nambiar. Humour, satire and social criticism are the
hallmarks of this art form. The Thullal dancer is supported by two
musicians on the Mridangam or the Thoppi Maddalam and cymbals. Both
musicians are expected to repeat the verses recited by the dancer.
Seethankanthullal is one of the three forms of Thullal. The other
two are Ottanthullal and Parayan Thullal. The songs and dance in Seethankanthullal
are slower than Ottanthullal in metre, rhythm and tempo. The costume
is fascinating. The dancer wears a black cloth around his head with
a band of tender palm leaves that give the impression of a crown.
Ornaments that look like lotus blooms, made of palm fronds adorn the
arms and wrist, and dozens of bead necklaces are worn round the neck.
A red waist band with a long length of white cloth looped around it
forms the skirt typical of the Thullal costume.
A performance generally lasts for two hours and is rendered with
such skill as to hold the spectator spell bound
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