THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Considering its outstanding value and vulnerability, UNESCO has recognised mudiyettu, an age-old ritual drama of Kerala, as an "intangible cultural heritage of humanity".
This dance-drama tradition that forms part of the Goddess Kali cult is the second art form from Kerala to be included in the UN list for preservation as human cultural heritage after the classical theatre Kudiyaattam, which was accorded the coveted status a few years ago.
mudiyettu is a ritualistic art which evolved as part of the Bhadra Kali (Goddess Durga) cult performed in some temples in Kerala, whose origin can be traced back to the 9th or 10th century AD. With seven characters and seven elaborate scenes, it is enacted annually in an open space adjacent to Bhadra Kali temples after the harvest season, seeking blessings of the Goddess for well-being of the village community. Based on the mythical story of the battle between Kali and Darika the demon, the play is performed by artists in heavy costumes with Kalamezhuthu or tantric drawings made using organic dyes on the floor as background, amid beating of drums.
The ritual dance-drama begins with the discourse of Lord Shiva and Narada, and it progresses through the entry of Darika and Kali, followed by their grim battle and concluding with the slaying of the demon by the Goddess. Like the famed Ram Leela of north India, the play drives home the message of ultimate triumph of the good over evil.
Mudiyettu is more of an offering than an art form for its performers, says Keezhillam Unnikrishnan, the best known contemporary exponent of the tradition and a member of one of the four traditional performing families of the art form.
"Unlike classical theatres Kathakali or Koodiyattam, Mudiyettu is considered a sacred offering to Goddess Kali rather than a medium of pure entertainment.It derived its name from the tall and glittering headgear worn by the artist who appears as Kali," Unnikrishnan told PTI. .