The Koodiyattom: A 2000 year old gem in Kerala’s treasure trove!
Discover the Koodiyattom- one of India’s oldest living theatrical traditions. Believed to be 2000 years old and recognized by UNESCO as one of the masterpieces of the oral heritage of humanity, we tell you why this is one of Kerala’s many dances not to be missed.
The beginnings of Kerala’s dramaturgy can be traced to this dance. Performed to the accompaniment of Sanskrit vocals, Koodiyattom is recognized by UNESCO as one of the masterpieces of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity.
In its stylized and codified theatrical language, ‘netra abhinaya’ (eye expression) and ‘hasta abhinaya’ (hand gestures) are prominent. Actors undergo ten to fifteen years of rigorous training to become fully-fledged performers.
Koodiyattom is staged on specially built temple theatres called ‘Koothambalam’. Both men and women partake in this performance. The stage is decorated with fruit-bearing plantains and bunches of tender coconuts, and festooned with fronds of the coconut palm. A vessel overflowing with paddy is placed on the stage. Lighting is done with a tall oil lamp made of brass. Within a railed enclosure on the stage is a large copper drum called ‘mizhavu’ with a high seat for the drummer. The musical element in Koodiyattom is very subdued. At times special orchestral effects are introduced. The orchestra consists of various percussion instruments, a conch, pipe and horn.
Appropriate hand gestures and symbols are first shown when the words of the Sanskrit verse are spoken in a typically modulated tone. As the music begins, the meaning of the verses is translated into a language of bodily postures, attitudes and facial expressions. Facial make-up is done using various colour schemes and patterns having symbolic value, though there is no strict standardisation. The stage craft is simple, with hardly any stage setting.
Koodiyattom performance is a prolonged affair and may take anything from a few days to a number of weeks. Access to performances was originally restricted owing to their sacred nature, but the plays have progressively opened up to larger audiences.
If it’s art and culture that you dig, Kerala has some unique offerings that you ought to check out. Call Kerala Travel Centre today on their toll-free number 0808 178 9799 and book yourself a fabulous Kerala tour on this bit of paradise that they call God’s Own Country where we can arrange special displays of Kerala’s various performing art forms just for you.
