Chavittu Natakam – Triumph in Every Step

Chavittu Natakam folk dance of Kerala

Chavittu Natakam combines music, dance, drama, dialogue, and rhythm, and his favorite themes are the history of Jesus, saints, and kings. A level can be made using plates. The game uses the sound of two musical instruments, Pada Thamber, and Maravaladi, and is based on bold text. The story unfolds through a song. With stages such as Varna Mattukal, Virutham, Kavi, Kappu, Thuyarm, and Kalithura, the tempo gets higher and higher.

Tamil Nadu native Chinna Thambi Annavi came to Kunan Kurissu in Mattancherry to make the debut of this movie. Later, another play by Vedanayakam Pillai from Nayorya was staged in the church. Both are Tamil. The story unfolds through a song. The tempo increases steadily with the sounds of various scenes such as Varna Mattukal, Virutham, Kavi, Kappu, Thuyarm, and Kalithura.

A native of Tamil Nadu, Chinna Thambi Annavi traveled to Kunan Kurissu from Mattancherry, where he wrote the first play for this painting). Later, another game of Vedanayakam Pillai, a native of Neyyoor, was played in the temple. Both are Tamil.
This artwork is sponsored by the people of Tamil Nadu. Sanjon Annavi, Vareechan Annavi, Cherrechan Annavi, and Anthony Annavi are some of the early players.

Brazeena Nataka, Joseph Nataka, Kathrina Nataka, Santi Claus Nataka, Karlman Nataka, and Jnana Sundari were some of the popular actors of that era. But Kalman is the favorite and still plays.

Performance of Chavittu Natakam

The dance and performance of such performances can only be done by people who are talented in acting.
The artist should move his body, face, and especially his eyes according to the rhythm and music, and give his steps to the link between music and combined conversation.

Musical Instruments Used In Chavittu Natakam

The chavittu natakam most common instruments used for background music are Padathamber, Maddalam, Chenda, and Ilathalam, but Tabala, Fiddle, Flute, and Nightingale are now also used.

Costumes and makeup at Chavittu-Natakam

Clothes and make-up Aharya Abhinaya – teaching meditation with the help of clothes, decorations, and make-up – is very important in Chavittu-Natakam. Costumes are known for their special abilities. Since many of these games featured great kings and central European kings and soldiers, the outfits were carefully designed to complement the characters.
Colorful silks, velvets, and brocades embellished with dazzling pearls, shards of glass and similar materials abound. Soldiers often wore Greco-Roman clothing.

Soldiers’ helmets, masks, and kings’ hats were first made of clay. It is also ubiquitous among local artisans who make clothes and ornaments with their dexterous hands. Special prizes will be given by artists and village elders for good clothes.
For this reason, there is fierce competition among artists in the making of clothes.

Costumes and makeup at Chavittu-Natakam are ~ Real. Masks and symbols are not used. Emperors wear emperors and soldiers as soldiers and saints according to their status and status.
Emperors and kings in their magnificent robes and dazzling crowns and scepters, accompanied by soldiers in Greco-Roman garb, helmets, and armor, is truly an unforgettable sight.

Conclusion

These repertoires have reached the European opera style and form under the influence of Portuguese and European missionaries. Syrians in Kerala have never shown interest in this spectacle and often appear on the shores of the Latino community. Krupasanam in Kalavoor is an educational center that promotes this image. Kerala Folklore College was also supported. The five-day Chuvadu Festival is held at Gothuruthu at the Muziris estate as part of the Kochi Muziris Biennale.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Chavittu Natakam Folk Dance:

Q1: What is Chavittu Natakam folk dance?

A1: chavittu natakam is a traditional folk dance-drama form that originated in the state of Kerala, India. It is a unique blend of dance, music, and theater, characterized by vigorous footwork, vibrant costumes, and dramatic storytelling.

Q2: What are the key features of Chavittu Natakam?

A2: chavittu natakam is known for its distinct and rhythmic footwork performed by the actors/dancers wearing wooden sandals (chavittu). The dance form incorporates elaborate costumes, makeup, facial expressions, and dramatic gestures to portray characters and tell stories.

Q3: What are the themes of Chavittu Natakam performances?

A3: Chavittu Natakam often depicts episodes from Indian mythology, including stories from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. The performances may also focus on historical events, religious narratives, and social issues, providing moral and ethical messages to the audience.

Q4: How is Chavittu Natakam performed?

A4: Chavittu Natakam is performed on a specially constructed stage called koothambalam. The actors/dancers wear vibrant costumes, heavy makeup, and elaborate headgear. They use distinctive footwork, synchronized movements, and expressive gestures to portray characters and enact the storyline.

Q5: What is the significance of Chavittu Natakam?

A5: Chavittu Natakam holds cultural and religious significance in Kerala. It is traditionally performed as part of temple festivals and other religious ceremonies. The dance-drama form has been instrumental in preserving and transmitting stories from mythology and history to generations.

Q6: Can anyone learn and participate in Chavittu Natakam?

A6: Chavittu Natakam is traditionally performed by members of specific communities or families who have inherited the knowledge and skills of the art form. However, there are training programs and workshops available where individuals can learn the dance and theatrical techniques associated with Chavittu Natakam.

Q7: Where can one witness Chavittu Natakam performances?

A7: Chavittu Natakam performances are primarily held in Kerala, particularly during temple festivals and cultural events. These performances can be witnessed at designated venues, including traditional koothambalams or theater spaces.

Q8: What are the traditional musical instruments used in Chavittu Natakam?

A8: Chavittu Natakam is accompanied by traditional musical instruments such as chenda (cylindrical percussion instrument), ilathalam (cymbals), and shankha (conch shell). The music complements the dance movements and adds to the overall theatrical experience.

Q9: How does Chavittu Natakam contribute to the preservation of folklore and cultural heritage?

A9: Chavittu Natakam plays a significant role in preserving and promoting the folklore, mythology, and cultural heritage of Kerala. Through its performances, it keeps alive the traditional stories, cultural practices, and artistic techniques, ensuring their continuity and appreciation.