Each part of the world has its own culture and art forms. In most cases, they hold a kind of uniqueness, though they often take influences from other regions or neighbouring cultures. Let us come to Kerala. Though this small state forms a part of South Indian culture and has been influenced by it, it still holds some rare features in terms of traditions and cultural practices. Onam, Vishu, Saraswati Pooja and other festivals have their own Kerala flavour, which distinguishes them from similar celebrations elsewhere. For Malayalis, it is the Nadan Kalakal (traditional art forms), closely linked with religious beliefs and practices, that have been followed for centuries.
The same can be seen in dance forms, religious rituals and traditional performing arts. Though small in size, Kerala is often described as a land of art, rich and colourful. In costumes, literature, musical instruments and folk music, it stands apart. Arts can be broadly classified into two: those that can be visually enjoyed through costumes and presentation, known as Drishyakala, and those appreciated mainly through sound and music, known as Shraavyakala. Dance forms can be experienced in both these ways.
When it comes to Kathakali, it can be enjoyed through different elements — acting, chitram (visual art), silpam (sculptural beauty), music and literature. All these are blended in perfect proportion, making it a unique art form. In ancient times, art was categorised as Kottu (mainly percussion instruments like drums), Paattu (song), Koothu (a traditional art form combining music and performance) and Aattam (dance). Art forms are also classified as temple arts, traditional arts and classical arts.
Most of these art forms are deeply connected to social life and mythology, and hence very colourful. Many of them have interesting folklore associated with them. Earlier, I added some of the traditional dance forms of Kerala. Now I shall introduce you to a few traditional art forms (Nadan Kalakal) in brief. Theyyam, Thira, Padayani, Mudiyett, etc., are among those.
Traditional art forms (Nadan Kalakal) of Kerala
Malayalis are familiar with temple traditions that have been practised for ages. Irrespective of religious beliefs, Muthappan, considered as a manifestation of Lord Shiva (Vellattam) and Lord Vishnu (Thiruvappana), associated with Theyyam in Kannur and neighbouring districts, is equally accepted by all.
Temple Traditions include Theyyam and Garudan Thookkam
Theyyam
Theyyam means ‘God’. So Theyyattam means performing in the costume of a god. Theyyam is most common in the Malabar region and is performed in different characters, representing various stories, legends and customs. Mostly, Theyyakolam is performed in Hindu ancestral homes and snake groves. Though it is linked to Hindu mythology, people of the entire region gather together to celebrate the occasion. Even though Theyyakolam holds a sense of divinity, it also aims at social welfare and often criticises social evils.
This traditional art form addresses social issues such as poverty, diseases and agricultural prosperity. Pottan Theyyam, for example, criticises the division of people based on the caste system. Let me briefly explain a few terms related to this art form.
Adayalam Kodukkal – The date is fixed, and the artist is given the responsibility to perform on that particular day.
Kottiyariyikkal – An announcement is made when the Theyyam is to be conducted.
Thottam Nilkkal – The performer stands before the idol and sings. After the Thottampattu is completed, the main Theyyam performance begins. The performer accepts offerings, gives prasad and blesses the devotees. At the end, he stands on a stool (Peedam) and removes the headgear (Mudi Azhikkuka).
Costume has great significance in Theyyam. The headgear is especially important and comes in different types such as Peeli Mudi (peacock-feather headgear), Neelan Mudi (long headgear) and Vatta Mudi (round headgear). Some of the common ornaments include Maarmaala (chain), Kundalam (sphere-shaped earrings), bangles, Kaikuppayam (costume) and Chilambu (anklets). Chenda is the main musical instrument used, along with Ilanjithalam and Kurumkuzhal.
Please know in detail about Theyyam here. Earlier I added a lengthy article on Theyyam. Please have a look here.
Mudiyett
A traditional folk dance form performed in various districts of mid-Kerala and Travancore, Kali – Daraka war is normally staged in Bhagavathi Kaavu during Makaram-Meenam months in Thrissur, Ernakulam, Kottayam and Alappuzha districts. It’s conducted to please the goddess. The costume placed by the artist on head during performance is called Mudi. ‘Ettu’ means ‘to place/to load’ and the term Mudiyett is coined by combining these two words.
Main characters are Siva, Kali, Darakan, Kuli, Dhaanavendran, Narada, Koyimbada Nair etc. In Kali – Daraka war, Kali takes or fixes Darakan’s hair. In that meaning too, it is Mudiyett. I Kali – Daraka war is the main theme of Mudiyett too, and traditionally this art is presented by people belonging to Kurup community. It is performed in the aattakalam (the place where such rituals are conducted) near to Bhagavathi Kaavu, with representation from local folk, who assemble there. Along with songs, prose is also recited.
Kali – the main character wears a wooden mask, and dances before the lighted lamp. It’s the most important part of the performance. Social issues raised by the characters – Koyimbada Nair and Kuli give a humour touch to the presentation.
Padayani
Padayani Kolams arrive in groups, coming forward with lighted fire torches and dried banana leaf torches. They are accompanied by cheers, shouting and kurava. There is no particular stage for the performance; it is presented in the midst of a crowd. It is usually performed in a Bhagavati Kaavu, and great importance is given to the dance steps. The green spathe of arecanut leaves is used to make the Kolams.
According to legend, after killing Darika, Goddess Kali could not control her anger. To pacify and please her, Siva and other gods wore Kolams and danced before her. Many rituals are associated with Padayani. Ganapati Kolam, Madan Kolam, Marutha Kolam and others are fixed on the heads of the performers, and then they dance according to the beats and rhythms of the musical instruments.
Kuthiyottam
Performed in Bhagavati temples of South Kerala, Kuthiyottam at the Attukal Bhagavati Temple, as part of the Pongala celebrations, is very famous. Kuthiyottam is also performed in the Bhagavati temples of Ochira, Chettikulangara, Chirayinkeezhu, Kadaykkal, Mankombu, Alappuzha and Kollam. It is also conducted in the snake groves of Kerala.
During the ritual, small wires made of gold or silver are pierced into the skin of teenage or young boys, and they are then taken to the temple steps. They are adorned with crowns, many ornaments and colourful spots on their faces.
The children also dance on the occasion, accompanied by the music of chenda, ilathalam and kurukuzhal, along with thalapoli and lamps. After reaching the temple, they pray to the goddess and begin programmes such as vaaythari music. They live under austere conditions for a certain period and observe strict vratham.
This ritual has now become controversial in Kerala, and many social organisations have demanded a complete ban on it.
Garudan Thookkam
It is a traditional temple art form related to the Darika Vadham of Mahakali. According to legend, even after killing Darika, Goddess Kali could not control her anger. To please and calm her, Garuda danced before her.
The artist’s colourful costume resembles Garuda. He wears wings and a beak as part of the costume. He dances to the accompaniment of musical instruments, mainly chendamelam, flapping his wings and sometimes using his beak as if cleaning his feathers.
A special platform called Garudathattu, similar to a Koothambalam, is used for the performance, and the artist dances on it. The Garudathattu is carried on the shoulders of people during the performance.
Chavittu Nadakam is prominent among Christian Traditions
Chavittu Nadakam
This drama is quite popular among Christian communities. This classical art form came into existence in the Kochi region after the arrival of the Portuguese in Kerala. Footwork is very important in this performance. Stamping forms a major part of the act, and that is how it got the name Chavittunadakam (‘chavittu’ means stamping). It has slight similarities with Kerala’s own Kathakali. It is presented in front of a lighted Kerala lamp. Like Kathakali, it also begins with a ‘Keli’, which announces that Chavittunadakam is about to be performed.
The first Keli is called Onnam Keli Perukkal, where the chenda is used. During the second Keli, or Randam Keli Perukkal, the artists go to the green room to put on their costumes. The third Keli Perukkal is performed just before the play begins.
It is usually staged in open spaces, and the artists appear in Western-style dramatic costumes. Kavi Prarthana, Eeswara Prarthana and Purappattu Paattu are performed one after another. After that comes Kathaavatharam, the actual presentation of the story. The narration is in Malayalam with a slight influence of Tamil. Stories from the lives of Charlemagne and Alexander the Great are among the major themes presented. Chenda and kaimani (bell) are used as percussion instruments.
Kummattikali of Thrissur is prominent among Onam Traditions
Kummattikali
Kummattis form an integral part of the Onam celebrations of Thrissur and Palakkad districts. Thalla is the main performer, accompanied by Hindu mythological characters like Siva, Krishna, Hanuman, Kirathan, Pig, Kali etc. They use Onavillu and go to all homes in the locality, sing songs and dance for them. All characters are given a mask, made using thin wooden pieces and the spathe of aracanut leaves. Grass, banana leaves, and other waste materials are tied to the body.
“Kundan Kinattil Kuruvadi Poyaal
Kumbittedukkum Kummatti
Ennal Kombathe Vaalan Pulinga
Ethichu Pidikkum Kummatti”
Kummattis also sing such humorous songs as a part of their presentations. Please visit my Onam page to read a few articles on Onam, Kummattikali and related celebrations. Chenda and Ilathalam are the main percussion instruments. For Onakummatti, Onavillu is used as the main musical instrument. It is done in both ways – as a part of tradition and also for recreation.
Onathullal
– It is a traditionally followed art form, especially conducted in the Kuttanad belt of Alappuzha during the Onam season. This art formhas been traditionally performed by the Velan community. Costumes are worn and performed by ladies, while men accompany them by singing Mahabali songs and percussion. The performing ladies carry tender coconut leaves in their hands and a crown on their heads.
Folk traditions include Kaakkarissi Nadakam
Kaakkarissi Nadakam
It is an art form performed in South Kerala and it belongs to the folk drama genre with some humorous flavours. It is not a traditional performing art form or temple art. It is conducted on auspicious days and also during temple festivals. The main characters are Sundaran Kaakkaalan and two Kaakkaalathis. Kaakkaalan is a community, and the female is called Kaakkaathi. Mridangam, Ganjira, Ilathalam and Harmonium are the main instruments used.
Muslim traditions include Duff Kali and Arabanamutt
Arabanamutt
The musical instrument Arabana is used in the performance of Arabanamutt. It is broadly divided into two types — Raatheebmutt, a traditionally followed ritual form, and Kalimutt, which is more recreational in nature. It became popular among the Muslim Mappilas of Malabar. When the Ustad begins singing in Malayalam, the whole team joins him in chorus.
Duff Kali
It is an important art form of Kerala Muslims and is also known as Dappukali or Dappumuttukali. The musical instrument Duff is used in performances, and that is how it got its name. Though it was earlier performed as a traditional ritual art, it later became part of social gatherings and recreational events. The group usually consists of 12 or more members, with a leader who sings for the group. Religious songs, battle songs, love songs, and even sad songs are used as themes in Duff Kali.
Kolkali
Kolkali is performed by various religious and community groups and dates back to the ancient days of Kalaripayattu. Specially designed sticks of fixed size are used in the performance. The artists move in rhythm, accompanied by music. Similar to the Dandiya Raas performed during the Navaratri season, the dancers strike each other’s sticks (known as kol in Malayalam) while moving in a circle. As the performance progresses, the pitch of the music rises, and so does the intensity of the dance steps towards the climax. It is traditionally performed by the Mappila community of Kerala.
A few more lesser-known art forms of Kerala culture
Some regional influences include Arjuna Nritham and Kaliyootu
Arjuna Nritham
– Performed in Changanasseri of Kottayam district, it is also known as Mayilpeeli Thookkam. The artist dresses as Arjuna of the Mahabharata and has similarities with the costumes of Kathakali – Chutti and Minukk. Mridangam and Ilathaalam are the musical instruments.
Parichamuttukali
– Performed in the districts of Kottayam and Malappuram, it is presented both as a traditional art form and for social recreation. The group can have up to 16 participants, and no special stage or space is required. Its origin is traced back to ancient times, when the sword and buckler were common weapons.
Kaliyoottu
– It is a traditional ritual art performed in the districts of Thiruvananthapuram to please Goddess Kali. The rituals are conducted both during the day and at night. It also includes the story of Kannaki and the battle between Kali and Darika. Chenda, Chengila, Thoppi, Madhalam and Kaimani are used as percussion instruments.
Kooliyattu
– It is quite popular among tribal communities in Kerala. Kooli represents an evil spirit. During an exorcism, a performer wears the kolam of the spirit and performs a ritual dance.
Kendronpattu
– Also known as Gandharvanpattu, it’s quite popular in Kannur district. It is a traditionally followed art form and conducted in the homes of pregnant ladies to avoid the entry of Gandharvas into their bodies. The Vannaan community perform this act.
Ayyappan Theeyaatt
– It is a traditionally followed art form conducted in Thrissur and Palakkad districts and performed by the Thiyaadi Nambyar community. The performer uses a fire torch for his dance and also walks on burning charcoal as a part of his act. It starts with Kalamezhuthu, drawn in different forms of Ayyappa, and it’s done to please him and seek his blessings too.
Poorakali
– Performed in Kannur and Kasaragod districts of Kerala, it’s a traditionally performed group dance. It’s also performed in competitions, and the performers clap their hands along with the song while performing on stage. The story of Poorakali is related to Lord Shiva as Kamadahana. If it is a competition between two groups, it turns more interesting and is also known as Maruthukali. It may also check the depth of knowledge. Normally, people with a good physique perform.
Kanyaarkali
– It’s widely performed in Palakkad district. It cooperates traditional art factors with recreation, and is also known by the names – Desakali and Malamakkali.
Gaddhika
– It’s popular in the Wyanad region, mostly performed by the Adiya tribal group for exorcism, dark magic and also for curing of diseases. If the religious rituals are conducted for a locality or for a group of people of a particular area, it’s called Naattu Gaddhika.
Aivarkali/Ivarkali
– Conducted in Bhagavati temples of Kottayam and Thiruvananthapuram districts of Kerala, it is a traditional art form. The artist puts footsteps and makes noises with bells (Kolmani). Kuzhithalam is also used as percussion. Aivar represents five Pandavas, and as per legend, the Pandavas sang and danced before the goddess Kali. Songs are mostly praises for Lord Krishna.
Kalamezhuthu Paattu, Oppana, Mappilla kali, Porattu Nadakam, Thidambu Nritham, Kolam Thullal, Nayatti Kali, Pavakoottu – the list is so long. You can fit these art forms into a religious category or for recreation purposes. There might be countless lesser-known art forms performed in different parts of Kerala. All these art forms enrich our cultural space, and make god’s own country proud. Watch this space. I may add more in future.
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