Koodiyattam (also called kūṭiyāṭṭaṁ) is one of the oldest surviving Sanskrit art forms, combining Sanskrit theatre and Koothu, a Tamil art form that uses dance and music to enact scenes from epics. This traditional performance is older than the famous Greek tragedies and Shakespearean drama.
Origin
Originating over 2000 years ago in the closed walls of Koothambalam (temple theatre) in Kerala, Koodiyattam represents Sanskrit classicism and local traditions of Kerala. King Kulashekhara Varma Cheraman Perumal was the important figure in shaping the Koodiyattam art form to its present form. The performance involves multiple artists on the stage who act in rhythm with the instruments. This performance involves rigorous training, long rituals, and even longer performances.
Performance
The actors undergo ten to fifteen years of training under gurus from the Chakyar and Nambiar communities, where they learn the art using high breathing control and subtle muscle shifts of face and body. The performances were elaborate, often ranging from a few hours to 12 days for a single act. The artists complete purification rituals and place an oil lamp on the stage, symbolizing a divine presence.
Musical instruments were also a huge part of the performance, traditionally instruments like mizhavu, karumkuzha, kuzhitalam, edakka, and sankhu were used, mizhavu was the most popular one .
Initially, Koodiyattam performance was restricted to temple rituals as it was considered sacred, but over time, it has been open to larger audiences. Yet until recent times, the performance manuals and instructions were handed down exclusively and were a secret property of selected families.
Characters and Makeup
Koodiyattam took inspiration and scenes from mythology and classic literature, and it involved characters like Heroes, gods, and Kings, Demons like Ravana, Jesters or Vidushaka who use a mix of Sanskrit and Malayalam, Female characters from the myths, and other smaller characters, including messengers and small deities. The focus of the performance was on the emotions and thoughts of the main character.
The costumes and makeup included headgear, forehead ornaments made of wood and cotton, and intricate face painting, including mustaches and different colours depending on the character, like green for heroes and black for demons.
Decline & Revival
This art form, since its techniques and rituals were kept secret among certain families and were performed in special venues not accessible to a larger audience was collapsed along with the feudal order in the 19th century. Even after its revival in the 20th century, it lacked funding, leading to a crisis. Now, UNESCO, along with certain bodies, has come together to ensure that the art remains popular.
In this era with short attention spans, Koodiyattam reminds us to slow down and observe deeply into tradition. This art form is also the symbol of devotion.
FAQs
Q: Where can I Watch Koodiyattam?
A:
- Kerala Kalamandalam
- Jawahar Library Hall, Kannur – monthly performances on the second Wednesday
- Government Museum, Thiruvananthapuram – monthly performance occurred in collaboration with the Department of Museums, Government of Kerala
- International art festivals
- Temple festivals – especially in cities like Thrissur and Palakkad
Q: What are some notable epics performed in Koodiyattam?
A: Performances often are based on Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavatham and Sanskrit literature.
Q: Who are the main performer in Koodiyattam?
A: Male actors were traditionally from the Chakyar community and female actors were Nangyarammas from the Nambiar caste in Kerala.
Q: What are the different parts in a Koodiyattam performance?
A: Each performance have 3 parts which are,
- Purappadu – consists of abstract dance movements
- Nirvahanam – known as the mood presentation, consists of expressive acting
- Koodiyattam – Main Play, the most dynamic part with multiple characters and dialogues
