India is home to many dance forms, each reflecting the diverse cultural and historical tapestry of the region from which it originates. Among these, Kerala is celebrated for its unique contributions to Indian classical and folk performances, one of which is the art form known as Ottan Thullal. This satirical dance and theatre form, developed in the 18th century, combines narrative dance and humour to present societal critiques in a way that remains accessible to the common man. With colourful costumes, expressive dance moves, and a distinctive narrative style, Ottan Thullal is entertaining and insightful, making it an enduring legacy in Kerala’s performing arts.
The Origin and History of Ottan Thullal
Ottan Thullal’s inception is attributed to the legendary Malayalam poet and scholar Kunchan Nambiar, who created it as a reaction to the elitist traditions in art during the 18th century. Nambiar, a poet in the royal courts, was known for his sharp wit and social awareness. He noticed that classical art forms, like Kathakali, though majestic, were inaccessible to the common man due to their use of Sanskrit and intricate dance forms that required prior knowledge.
One story recounts that Nambiar was inspired to create Ottan Thullal after a Kathakali performer ridiculed him during a performance. The legend goes that Nambiar fell asleep while playing the chenda (a percussion instrument) during a Kathakali performance and was mocked by the artists. In response, he conceived Ottan Thullal, a form where the performer, a single artist, could entertain the audience with humor, storytelling, and satire without relying on elaborate setups or musical accompaniments. This new art form thus became a powerful vehicle for social commentary, engaging and enlightening audiences on issues ranging from moral tales to critiques of the upper classes and clergy.
Structure and Form of Ottan Thullal
Ottan Thullal is primarily a solo performance in which the artist tells stories from Hindu epics, mainly the Ramayana and Mahabharata while blending them with contemporary social issues to make them relevant to the audience. The performer, or Thullakaran, narrates the story through dance, rhythmic recitation, and expressive gestures. The recitations are delivered in Malayalam, making them accessible to the common people, and they are often set to catchy, rhythmic beats that make them easy to follow.
This form of storytelling relies on improvisation and allows the performer significant creative freedom, which means that each Ottan Thullal performance can vary widely. Although originally rooted in traditional narratives, performers often adapt the script to address current social, political, and cultural issues, allowing them to connect with audiences on a more personal and immediate level.
The Costumes and Makeup of Ottan Thullal
The costumes in Ottan Thullal are vivid and distinctive, resembling traditional temple murals or even Kathakali costumes to some extent but are simpler and more colourful. A typical Ottan Thullal performer wears a green-painted face, symbolizing a playful and otherworldly character. The bright green face paint symbolizes the semi-divine nature of the character and is complemented by striking eye makeup, intended to highlight expressions and make the face more animated and readable to the audience.
The costume usually consists of a simple white skirt with coloured waistbands and large, beaded jewellery. The performer adorns his arms with vibrant bangles and wears garlands around his neck, often made of wooden beads or metal. The skirt itself is accentuated with a red or black waistband, and sometimes a small drum or jingles are tied around the waist to enhance the dancer’s movements. This costume style makes the performer easily recognizable and reflects a rustic, earthy charm that suits the art form’s roots in folk culture.
The simplicity and affordability of the costume and makeup make Ottan Thullal accessible to performers from all social backgrounds, allowing it to spread widely across Kerala.
The Themes and Symbolism in Thullal
Ottan Thullal generally employs themes from Hindu mythology but diverges from classical interpretations by emphasizing humor, wit, and irony. The stories often feature a hero who is flawed or ridiculous, which allows the performer to use humor to both entertain and subtly critique aspects of society.
For example, in a typical story, the character might begin as a devout worshiper or a warrior on a noble quest, only to encounter absurd or challenging situations that reveal his weaknesses or hypocrisies. Through this narrative structure, Ottan Thullal serves as a mirror to society, reflecting back the flaws and contradictions in human behaviour.
The themes in Ottan Thullal often serve as social commentary. For instance, stories might address issues like corruption among officials, hypocrisy in religious practices, or the disparity between the rich and the poor. By framing these issues within the context of mythology, the performance avoids direct confrontation while still making the critique accessible to all social classes.
The Music and Instruments in Thullal
Ottan Thullal performances are accompanied by minimal musical instruments, usually just a maddalam (a drum) and cymbals. The simplicity of the musical accompaniment is intentional; it keeps the focus on the performer’s expressions, gestures, and voice.
The rhythmic structure of the performance is one of its defining elements. The verses, often composed in a local dialect of Malayalam, are rhythmic and repetitive, allowing the audience to catch onto the tune quickly. This adds a musical dimension to the narrative and encourages the audience to participate, whether by clapping along or responding to the performer’s gestures and expressions.
Cultural Significance of Ottan Thullal
Ottan Thullal remains relevant in Kerala’s cultural landscape today because of its adaptability and accessibility. Unlike other classical dance forms, Ottan Thullal does not require years of formal training, making it easier for new artists to learn and perform. Its satirical and humorous approach endears it to a wide audience, from young children to the elderly, and its themes resonate with all social strata.
Ottan Thullal also holds a place in temple festivals and cultural gatherings across Kerala. During the festival season, it is common to see Ottan Thullal performances in temple courtyards, where they serve as both entertainment and a form of moral instruction. Schools and cultural organizations often encourage children to learn Ottan Thullal, considering it a means of instilling cultural values and an understanding of Kerala’s rich performing arts heritage.
Ottan Thullal in the Modern Era
Ottan Thullal, the art form, has evolved over the years, with contemporary performers experimenting with modern themes and incorporating issues such as environmental conservation, education, and social justice. Some performers have also expanded the musical accompaniment to include additional instruments or even modern sounds, though traditionalists often prefer the simplicity of the original form.
In recent years, Ottan Thullal has gained international recognition, with artists performing in cultural festivals around the world. Organizations dedicated to preserving Kerala’s traditional art forms have played a significant role in promoting Ottan Thullal, not only within India but also abroad.
There has been a surge in digital performances, with artists sharing Ottan Thullal routines on platforms like YouTube and social media, further extending its reach and allowing a global audience to appreciate this unique art form.
Conclusion
Ottan Thullal remains a vibrant and dynamic part of Kerala’s cultural heritage. Rooted in tradition yet adaptable to modernity, it embodies the spirit of social critique, humor, and performance that has captivated audiences for centuries. The art form’s blend of simplicity and sophistication allows it to transcend its regional roots, making it accessible and enjoyable to audiences far beyond Kerala. As a testament to Kunchan Nambiar’s creativity and insight, Ottan Thullal continues to remind us of the power of art to reflect, question, and entertain in equal measure.
