Lord Shiva in Kutiyattam

Kutiyattam is one of the surviving art forms belonging to the Sanskrit theatrical tradition. This art form, which dates back 2,000 years, is considered as the mother of all dances. It represents a unique combination of both Sanskrit classicism and local traditions of Kerala. 

UNESCO has declared Kutiyattam as one of the masterpieces of oral and intangible heritage tradition of humanity. It is performed in specially built theatrical structures called Koothamabalams.

One of the striking features of Kutiyattam is that it treats individual acts from classical Sanskrit plays as full fledged plays. The performance of Kutiyattam is codified by facial expressions, hand gestures and body movements. The instruments used in Kutiyattam are Mizhavu, Thimila, kurumkuzhal, sankhu and edakka.

The featured video is a Kutiyattam performance as Lord Shiva by Kalamandalam Sivan Nampoothiri. Lord Shiva (Lord Parameshwara) is the lord of destruction according to Hindu mythology.