Seethakali Folk art

27 Aug 2023 2 mins Download PDF

Seethakali Folk art

1. A Dravidian dance drama primarily performed by Dalit artists belonging to the Veda and Pulaya communities of Kerala, first performed some 150 years back.
2. It presents minuscule episodes of the Ramayana at every homestead, portions from vanayatra (exile to the forest) to Sita’s andardhanam (descend into the earth). 
3. It is performed during the festival days starting with Atham star till the 28th day after Onam and they go from one house to another performing this art.
4. Seethakali songs were orally passed on from one generation to the next.
5. The art form is a blend of songs, storytelling and fast movements while ganjira, manikatta, chiratta and kaimani are among the accompaniments.
6. The props and instruments used during performances are all made of natural materials like bamboo and palm leaves.
7. Currently, in Kerala, there is only one registered Seethakali performing group – Perinad Seethakali Sangham.