Art is an integral part of culture, reflecting the ethos of a society and its people. Among the many various forms of artistic expression, theatre stands out for its vivacity and vibrancy. Kerala, a southern state in India, is home to one of the oldest traditional theatre forms – Kutiyattam. The recent performance of a composition – “Parvati Viraham” by Kapila Venu at Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi brought this endangered art form back into the spotlight, underscoring the importance of its preservation.
Understanding Kutiyattam
Rooted in ancient Sanskrit theatre traditions, Kutiyattam is an enduring art form that’s been a part of Kerala’s cultural heritage for centuries. The name itself reflects its essence: “kuti” translates to “combined” or “together”, and “attam” means “acting”. In essence, the term “Kutiyattam” encapsulates the collaborative nature of this theatre form.
Unique Features of Kutiyattam
One of the distinct aspects of Kutiyattam lies in its stylized and codified theatrical language. Here, netra abhinaya (eye expression) and hasta abhinaya (the language of gestures) gain prominence. These expressive techniques delve deep into the psyche of the main character, conveying their thoughts and feelings to the audience. Kutiyattam performances traditionally take place in theatres known as Kuttampalams, which are usually located within Hindu temples.
Performers and Roles in Kutiyattam
Kutiyattam is performed by a community of actors – male performers called Chakyars and female performers known as Nangiars. They are accompanied by Nambiars, who play the drums. A notable aspect of Kutiyattam is Pakarnattam, which involves performers embodying and emoting both male and female roles. This fluidity between genders and the ability to interpret multiple roles simultaneously is considered a crucial skill within the repertoire.
Nangiar Koothu constitutes the solo section of female performance in Kutiyattam. Despite the gender divide, both Chakyars and Nangiars play vital roles in the overall performance, bringing to life the stories penned by eminent Sanskrit playwrights.
| Playwrights Whose Plays are Part of Kutiyattam |
|---|
| Bhasa |
| Harsha |
| Saktibhadra |
| Kulasekhara |
| Neelakantha |
| Bodhayana |
| Mahendravikramavarman |
Exception to the Rule: Who’s Not Included
While Kutiyattam includes the works of many major Sanskrit playwrights, there are notable exceptions. The renowned playwrights Kalidasa and Bhavabhuti’s works are not traditionally part of the Kutiyattam repertoire.
Recognition for Kutiyattam
The art form has received international recognition for its cultural significance and uniqueness. UNESCO has declared it as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, further fortifying its status in the world of traditional theatre.
