Nangiar Kooth or Nangyarkoothu is a traditional art form, part of the overarching Kutiyattam and the counterpart of Chakyar Koothu. Unlike Chakyar Koothu, which is performed only by men, Nangiar Koothu is exclusively performed by women of the Nambiar community, Nangyarammas.
Tradition & Themes
The traditional Nangiar koothu performance dates back 1,500 years, along with Koodiyattam, and was performed in temple theatres, known as Koothambalam. This dance was mainly taken from Sree Krishna Charitam, which are stories of the Hindu God Lord Krishna. These dance performance is guided by the Natyasastra using elaborate facial and hand gestures. The performer articulates different layers of meaning through hand gestures, known as mudras, and expressions of the eyes and face, known as abhinaya.
Performance
Revival & Relevance
The performance includes solo acting and dance, and the performer recites the Sanskrit verses or shlokas and explains them in the local language, Malayalam, for the viewers to understand the story depicted on stage. This single person enacts all the characters mentioned in the story through changes made in tone, expression, and hand gestures. This art form requires rigorous training, learn Sanskrit verses, and mastering Koodiyattam to perform Nangiar Koothu.
- Instruments: The performance is accompanied by instruments like Mizhavuand cymbals, known as Italthalam.
- Costume and Makeup: In Nangiar Koothu, the costume is simple rather than the flamboyant costumes in Kathakali and other art forms. The performer wears a white saree with a golden border, known as Kasavu, and heavy jewellery. The performer also wears light makeup, focusing on elaborate eye makeup, and the hair is tied up, decorated with flowers.
For years, Nangiar Koothu was confined within the walls of temples and Koothambalams and was performed only as part of rituals. But, in the 20th century, certain cultural institutions in Kerala popularized the art form and which brought more audience. Now, it is not only performed in Koothambalams but also during cultural festivals and international stages while maintaining the traditions.Nangiar Koothu is a slow art form, yet it is relevant because of its intensity and how the performer holds the attention of the audience through expressions and explanations.
Exponents of Nagiyarkoothu
Kalamandalam Girija, Kalamandalam Shailaja, Margi Usha Rathnam , Usha Nangiyar,kapila venu,Dr Aparna Nangiar, Kalamandalam Sangeetha,Margi Visishta , Margi Aswathy,Margi Mahathi
Where to learn
- Kalamandalam
- Margi Institution, Thiruvananthapuram
- NEPATHYA (Centre for Excellence Kurumaserry Aluva
- The Ammanur Chachu Chakyar Smaraka Gurukulam, Iringalakkuda,
Instruments Used
- Mizhavu
- Idaykka
- Kuzhithalam
Duration
One and half hour (depends)
Conclusion
More than the dance, it shows the performer’s talent in expressing the layers of emotions, and it shows Kerala’s spiritual storytelling tradition. Nangiar Koothu can stir emotions and inspire people through its subtlety and sacred nature.
FAQs
Q: Where can I watch Nangiar Koothu in Kerala?
A: Vadakkunnatha temple, Thrissur
Sri Krishna temple, Ambalappuzha
Kumaranalloor temple, Kottayam
Q: How is Nangiar Koothu different from Chakyar Koothu?
A: Chakyar Koothu is performed by men, and Nangiar Koothu is performed only by females.
