Ranga Shankara Fest '10: Kattaikuttu (day 2)

Kattaikkuttu or Terukkuttu from Tamil Nadu is a theatre of rituals and entertainment. Typically, Kattaikkuttu performances happen all-night on a stage that isn't elevated. The occasion for a performance may be a Hindu religious festival, a funeral or a special celebration in the village. Paratam festivals held in honour of Draupadi, who is worshipped as a powerful goddess in rural Tamil Nadu, provide an important setting for the organisation of Kattaikuttu. Depending on the occasion, Kattaikkuttu performances are sponsored by an entire village or by a family.


Kattaikkuttu is a combination of song, music, dance and drama. The actors are elaborately made up, almost mask-like, and wear costumes rich in colour. All the plays have elaborate live singing by the actors.


(Video courtesy: Maya Productions)

Category:

Entertainment

Tags:

• ranga shankara
• theatre
• drama
• gondhal
• folk
• festival