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Ancient Koodiyattam Act Revived After Centuries
16 Aug
Summary
- Koodiyattam Festival highlights rare staging of Ravanankam.
- Festival presents two distinct interpretations of Sita's abduction.
- Event features felicitation for award-winning artists.
The 17th Koodiyattam Festival, hosted by Nepathya, Centre of Excellence in Koodiyattam, commences at Moozhikkulam, Ernakulam on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 6 pm. The centerpiece of the festival is a full-length staging of Ravanankam, the fifth act of Bhasa's Pratimanataka. This significant performance is being presented in its entirety, a tradition observed after several centuries.
Following Ravanankam, the festival will present Mayaseetankam from August 27. This production, based on specific traditional texts and choreography, offers a unique interpretation of Sita's abduction, contrasting with Bhasa's original portrayal where Ravana disguises himself as an ascetic.
Distinguished figures Professor David Shulman and Sudha Gopalakrishnan will inaugurate and preside over the event, respectively. The festival will also felicitate Kalamandalam Manikandan and Nepathya Rahul Chakyar for their recent prestigious awards. The opening day includes Indu G's presentation of Shakuntala's Nirvahana at 7 pm, with the festival concluding on September 3, 2026.
