Some of the traditional art forms of the State that have few patrons in modern times, like the ‘Pulluvan Pattu’, ‘Paavakooth’, ‘Kakarissi Naadakam’, ‘Thayampaka’ and more, are to get a new lease of life, thanks to a social tourism initiative by Sathya Sai Orphanage Trust. The Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala and Sai Gram are joining hands to rejuvenate traditional art and cultural forms of Kerala as part of social tourism activities.
‘Pulluvan pattu’ is a ritualistic art form’ and is is sung during times of worship. This art form performed by the Pulluvar community was traditionally performed along with the music from instruments like ‘pulluvan veena’, ‘pulluvan kutam’ and ‘thaalam’ (metal cymbals).
‘Paavakooth’, also known as shadow puppetry of Kerala, had its origin in Palakkad District and can be traced back to the eighteenth century.
Another well known folk art of old times was the ‘Kakarissi Naadakam’ which had Lord Shiva and Parvathy as the main characters.
‘Thayampaka’, a temple art of Kerala starts with a ritual called ‘Kotti Vaikkal’. All the artists other than the main performer begins to play the bass side of chenda in a seven beat cycle, followed by a one beat cycle. Later the main performer joins the group. This art form is performed in three different phases and has evolved through times to become a signature symphony of Kerala.
In a press release issued by Sai Gram, it is stated that professional artists who are willing to exhibit their talent at their establishment in Thonnakkal will be provided with the family accommodation. The initiative will be inaugurated by Tourism Minister K P Anil Kumar at Sai Gram on June 29 at 1.30 pm. D Babu Paul will preside over the function and the keynote address will be delivered by artist B D Dethan.
