Kakarissi Natakam

Kakkarissi natakom is a satirical dance-drama based on the puranic legends of Lord Siva and his consort Parvati when they assumed human forms as Kakkalan and Kakkathi - a nomadic tribe of fortune-tellers. Kakkarissi Natakam is a popular entertainment among the backward communities of Kerala. This art can still be seen in its original flavour and style in the village of Nedumangadu in Thiruvananthapuram district. In the south-central region of Kerala, it is found in Kurumpala, Karakkat, Karunagapally, Panthalam, Cheruvally, Ambalapuzha, Mankombu etc. Here it is presented by the Paanar and Kummaalar communities. In Kilimanoor and Nedumangadu it is presented by Kurava and Ezhavas. This art form is spread all over the state, but they differ in certain respects from place to place. The main object of Kakkarissi Natakam is to make the public aware of the poverty, misery and suffering of the communities. According to tradition the performer starts with the chief character named SundarakKaakkaan entering the arena and exchanging conversation with the audience. He invites the female players named Kaakkaathimaar, and when they enter, the play begins. Besides there characters, Vedan, Thampuraan, Kuravan, Kurathy, wild tiger, etc, also figure in the enactment. Usually, the play takes place on a raised platform.