The ancient temple art of Tholpavakkoothu, a form of shadow leather puppetry unique to Kerala, has recently gained attention due to its adaptation by a robot. This traditional art form is deeply rooted in the Palakkad district and surrounding regions, and is predominantly practiced by Pulavar families native to Shoranur, also in Palakkad district.
Understanding Tholpavakkoothu: An Artistic Blend of Cultures
Tholpavakkoothu, also known as Nizhalkkoothu or Olakkoothu, is one of the most significant ancient art forms of Kerala. It demonstrates the successful fusion of Aryan and Dravidian cultures, a rich amalgamation that brings vibrance and depth to the performance. This ritualistic art is performed during annual festivals held at Kaali temples within the Palakkad district. The theatre play’s themes are primarily derived from Kamba Ramayana, which is a Tamil rendition of the epic Ramayana.
The Origins of Tholpavakkoothu
In Malayalam, Thol signifies leather, pava denotes doll, and koothu refers to play, together forming the term ‘leather puppet play.’ While the precise origins of this ritualistic art form remain unclear, it is estimated to be approximately 1200 years old. Historically, performances would occur within Bhadrakali temples of Palakkad and revolve around Ramayana tales that captivated the audience.
The Tholpavakkoothu Performance: A Spectacle of Myths and Lights
This captivating entertainment art takes place on a specially designed stage named ‘koothumadam,’ located in the temple courtyard. The performance employs mythological figures creatively depicted as leather puppets and utilizes the intriguing interplay of fire and lamps positioned behind the screen to cast enchanting shadows. The chief puppeteer, known as the ‘Pulavan’, plays a crucial role in orchestrating this spectacle.
Musical Instruments in Tholpavakkoothu
Integral to Tholpavakkoothu is the use of traditional musical instruments that augment the performance’s ambiance and narrative flow. Instruments such as Ezhupara, Chenda, and Maddalam, among others, provide a rhythmic backdrop to the shadow play, enhancing its dramatic effect and engaging the audience in the unfolding story.
This intriguing art form, which has been a part of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage for centuries, continues to evolve and capture the interest of new audiences, even as it preserves its traditional roots. Its recent adaptation by a robot has demonstrated the potential for digital technology to interact with and enrich our understanding of this ancient traditional performance.