Hridya Haridas | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Among the choreographers of Mohaniatam, Nirmala Panikar of Natanicic, Irinjalakuda, is out for his contribution to revives some aspects of the list of indigenous performances of the dance form.

For example, in 1932, in Kerala Kalamandalam, Mohanyattam was revived, the forms of policy, esal, Chandam and Kurithy were excluded, as due to the collapse of dance form due to some disgusting practices during the last century.

However, Nirmala says that Kurithi has been an internal character of all dance forms in South India.

Recently, Natanacarley’s Kotchitham Studio Theater was staged at Mohiniyam Ricital, Nirmala’s disciple Hirida Haridas staged ‘Mala Kurithi’. It was presented as part of Mohaniyattam Sandhya. The Kurathi is a palm reader from the hills, and a region on the northern bank of the Nila River falls in Valuvanadu, a treasure of cultural traditions.

Guru Nirmala Panikar | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The choreography was unprecedented as the classical dance form of Mohaniyattam was placed in the centuries -old folk theater of Tholpavakutu (Shadow Puppet Theater). Nirmala really simple.

The entry of Kurithi as a Mohiniyam Dancer was notable for how she introduces herself. But his histronic talents were manifested through a picturesque depiction of different types of folk art forms, which are peculiar to Valluvnadu, such as ‘Puthan and Thir’, ‘Kali Kali’, ‘Velichappadu’s Thullal’ (Shamanik Priest) and ‘Kuhtira Kali’.

Subsequently, she invites people interested in palm-reading. A childless couple shares their grief, and she advises her to offer Tholpavakathu as a gift in a temple in Bhadrakali to promote the goddess.

Tholpavakoothu (Chhaya Puppet Theater) | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

But why, Tholpavakoothu that describes the story of Ramayana? This is because Bhadrakali is disappointed that she missed seeing the cruel battle between Rama and Ravana, and this shadow puppet only performed in temples dedicated to Bhadrakali, rebuilt it for her.

Traditionally performed by scholars of Vellacheti caste, the play is presented in one Kuthu Madam, Playhouse specially built in the temple. A white cloth spread over the front acts as a screen on which the shade of specially designed puppets is added.

The coronation of Kotichitha, Ram-Ravana Battle and Rama was shown by artists led by Laxman Pulavar. Rejuvenation ended with the re -entry of dancer and Mangalam.