CHAKYAR KOOTHU
Chakyar Koothu is one of the oldest theatrical arts in Kerala. Chakyars the upper caste Hindu group, who were experts in narrating stories from the legends in a humorous manner, earned their living by the meager salary obtained from the temple. The term ‘Koothu’ in Chakyar Koothu mans ‘dance’. Thus, the name literally means the ‘dance performed by Chakyars.’ The story is recited in a dramatic style accompanied by hand gestures and facial expressions.
The dancer dressed in glittering cloth with a red cap, recites the stories in a humorous manner accompanied by the cymbals and beating of the Mizhavu, a percussion instrument made of copper with a narrow mouth. He also wears rich ornaments on neck, ear and hands that are part of his splendid attire.
It was a solo dance in which the artist himself sings the verses. He, who was permitted to tease anyone, even the mighty ruler during the course of the performance, used to exploit the situation to the maximum.
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