Thiruvathirakali, also known as Kaikottikali, which means “dance with claps”, is a unique folk dance performance that originated in Kerala. It is played by small groups of women during Thiruvathira day in the Malayalam month of Dhanu, which falls between December and January, and the Onam festival.
Tradition
Legend says the day when the Hindu God Lord Shiva appeared before Goddess Parvati and accepted her as his wife is celebrated as Thiruvathira; it is also believed to be Lord Shiva’s birthday. The songs sung by the women are often praises to Shiva and Parvati.
Married women perform Thiruvathirakali for a blessed marital life, and unmarried women perform it to have a good marriage.
Rituals
Preparations and rituals start several days in advance, and the women start the Thiruvathira day with a cold shower early in the morning. After that, the women collect Dashapushpams, which means 10 locally grown medicinal herbs, and adorn them on their hair. The dance is performed after sunset, typically during midnight rituals.
Performance
Traditionally, Thiruvathirakali is performed by a group of 8-10 women; they sing songs praising the deities and dance by clapping their hands and those of others while standing in a circle around the oil lamp. The only instrument used for Thiruvathirakali is the cymbals. The women wear the traditional attire, Mundu and Nerathu, which are long clothes, one for the bottom half covering the feet, and the second as an upper cloth. Some also wear Kerala Kasavu saree and blouse. They also wear traditional gold jewellery and adorn their head with jasmine flowers and tulsi leaves.
Evolution
Unlike old times, where only women of the upper class performed Thiruvathirakali during Thiruvathira day or Onam, today women, irrespective of religion and caste, perform this art form. Thiruvathirakali is performed widely during the popular Kerala festival, Onam, and as part of other special occasions and public events. It can also be seen during temple festivals, cultural events, and is a competition item in Kerala youth festivals held in schools and colleges.
Conclusion
Thiruvathirakali shows the communal spirit and celebration among women; it gives them space and opportunity beyond traditional roles. In today’s world, this art form reminds us of the power of togetherness and the joy of tradition. Girls are still keen to learn it, and some artists reinterpret it in a contemporary method.
FAQs
Q: Where can I watch Thiruvathirakali
A:
- Onam celebration
- Temple festivals
- Cultural festivals
Q: When is Thiruvathirakali performed?
A: During Thiruvathira day, which occurs between December – January annually, and during the Onam festival.
Q: How long does Thiruvathirakali performance last?
A: It lasts between 30 – 60 minutes, it can vary upon the event.
