A sensual blend of wide-ranging cultures is tangible
in Chavittunatakam. Literally means 'Stamping Drama', its history begins with
advent of the Portuguese to the Malabar coast of Kerala.
Chavittunadakam has a story to tell. When the Portuguese came to Kerala, they
felt a vacuum in the cultural arena. What they needed was a medium to spread
the myths and the legends they held dear.
They felt Kathakali impressive, but their ego did not permit them to graft their
legends on it. Hence created a distinctive dance drama of their own.
Collaborating with Malayalee scholars they moulded librettos extorting the heroic
exploits of legendary Christian warriors. Chavittu nadakam characters don glittering
dress which evinces fashion of medieval age.
They sing loudly with exaggerated gestures and pound the wooden stage. The play
is considered success if at the finale, the stage cave into the pressure of
heavy pounding
.
Chavittunatakom
Music and Dance forms in Kerala Reservation Form
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Music and Dance forms in Kerala
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