Mudiyettu

Mudiyettu is a ritual dance performed in some Kaali temples of Ernakulam and Kottayam. The dance celebrates the goddess' triumph over the demon Daarikan. Mudiyettu is performed by the Kuruppu or Marar who belong to the temple bound communities of Kerala. The Kalamezhuthu, a ritual drawing of the goddess Kaali is made on the floor with dyed powders, before the performance. Then the chorus sings hymns in praise of the goddess. Before the actual performance, the dancer erases the Kalam with tender palm fronds. The performer in the role of Kaali is aided by 'Koimpata Nayar', the local guide and Kooli, the attendant. Legends say that Daarikan, the epitome of evil, challenged Kaali to a duel. Kaali slayed Daarikan, with the blessings and grace of Lord Siva. It is believed that various forms of arts worshipping goddess Bhadrakaali prevailed much before the origin of temples. The period of origin of Mudiyettu is untraceable. This art is more of a ritual. Mudiyettu, compared to other forms of temple arts, is presented without many of mudras, face masks and facial expressions, but with facial make-ups and `chutti' which is an artwork done on face with rice paste which makes the characters simple and more acceptable to the viewers. Originally these characters used to perform with speech and dance, but later on rhythmic steps were introduced which gave more life to the characters and made the performance more interesting.

Related Topics
Folk Art Forms   Theyyam   Kalampattu   Kunhi Theyyam   Kaliyoottu   Kavadiyattam   Kummattikali   Kuthiyottam   Sarpapattu   Thidampunrittam   Mayilnrittam   Padayani   Pulikali   Margamkali   Cherumarkali   Arjuna Nritham   Kannyarkali   Theeyattu   Paana   Tholpavakoothu