Ottamthullal also known as Ottan-
thullal is a classical performing art
of Kerala, originated in 18th Century from the classical principles of Bharatha Muni’s 'Natya Shastra'. The
historical evidences says that, Kunjan
Nambiar, a great poet of Malayalam literature
established Ottamthullal as a medium
to protest against the prevalent Socio- cultural structure and prejudices of
the Kerala society in his time.
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| Kunjan Nambiar |
One of the most authentic stories regarding the origin of Ottamthullal says that, Kunjan Nambiar fell asleep
while playing the Mizhavu (A Musical Instruments) for a Chakyar- Koothu performance
caused ridicule from the Chakyar. In
response, Kunjan Nambiar developed Ottamthullal provoked Chakyar and he complained against Kunjan Nambiar to the King
of Chembakassery. The King
banned Ottamthullal from the Ambalappuzha temple complex where Ottamthullal used to perform .But the
action of Chembakassery king leads
to controversial talks in the society. Later, as the result of common people’s
need, Mathur Panikkar popularized
Ottamthullal all over
the Kerala.
The themes of Ottamthullal performance is
adopted from the various stories of Hindu Epics, Purana(s) and Mythology(s). During the earlier stages, Ottamthullal had performed by a single person with colourful costumes.
Later, this performing art staged as a group dance involving many actors
playing their character in the story. In Ottamthullal, the performer establishes powerful communication with
spectators through verbal acting which is interspersed with humor and social
references. Ottamthullal is still in practice during festivals and similar
celebrations, because of its simplicity and ability to influence the
ordinary people of Kerala.
Bibliography
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ottamthullal
Photos
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