Chakiarkoothu
An Indian Dance form
This form is believed to have been introduced to kerala by the early Aryan immigrants and is performed only by the members of the Chakiarcaste. A highly orthodox type of entertaintment, it can be staged inside temples only and witnessed by the Hindus of the higher castes.The theatre is known as koothambalam.
The story is recited in a quasidramatic style with emphasis on eloquent declarations with appropriately suggestive facial expressions and hand gestures. The only accompaniments are the cymbals and the drum known as the mizhavu, made of copper with a narrow mouth on which is stretched a piece of parchment. Labels: Chakiarkoothu, Indian Dance form
