Koodiyattam
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Koodiyattam is a traditional performing artform from Kerala, India. Recognised by UNESCO as a Human Heritage Art, this form of Sanskrit drama is considered to be at least 2000 years old. Kulasekhara Varma Cheraman Perumal, an ancient King of Kerala is known as the creator of Koodiyattam in the present form, and his "Aattaprakaram" is considered as the most authoritative publication on the art form. Another reference would be "Natyashasthram" by Bharatha Muni.
Natyakalpadrumam is the authoritative award winning book on Koodiyattam and is written by legendary Guru Natyacharya Vidushakaratnam Padmasree Mani Madhava Chakyar, who was the greatest Koodiyattam performer of all time.
It was Mani Madhava Chakyar who took Koodiyattam outside Koothambalams of Hindu temples and revolutionised it. He was the first one to teach Koodiyattam to non Chakyar caste members.
Chakyar and Nangyar
Traditionally, Koodiyattam is presented by "Chakyars" (a sub caste of Kerala Hindus) and "Nangyars" (women of Nambiar caste). The name 'Koodiyattam' (combined dance form) suggests the that its a combined performance of Chakkyar and Nangyar. Traditionally Mizhav and of late Idakka are the two musical instruments used in Koodiyattam performances.
Mani Madhava Chakyar
The great Guru (Master) of Koodiyattam is late Natyacharya Vidushakaratnam Padmasree Mani Madhava Chakyar. He was the actor of supreme kind famous for his extra ordinary mastery over ( Rasa abhinaya ) with special reference to Netrābhinaya.It was he who revolutionised it by taking it outside Hindu temples.
He choreographed and directed plays like Kalidasa's Abhijñānaśākuntala, Vikramorvaśīya and Mālavikāgnimitra ; Bhasa's Swapnavāsadatta and Pancharātra for the first time in the history of Koodiyattam.
His desciple and nephew Mani Damodara Chakyar is also a renowned Koodiyattam performer.
See also
External links
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