KOODIYATTAM

This art form is recognised as a unique cultural heritage of the world by UNESCO. It is different from Kathakali even though the make up and dress has a strong resemblance to it.

Naganandam (Naga -Serpent. Anandam- joy)is an ancient Sanskrit drama written by King Harsha nearly 1400 years ago. It tells the story of Jimuthavahanan, a bodhisattva or realised soul and Garuda the King of birds. Garuda is keen to kill every living serpent in the world. The  serpents watch helplessly as the killing goes on. Jimuthavahanan feels sorry for the reptiles and tells them he will try to help them.  He lies down among the serpents and Garuda takes him away to kill and eat.

When Garuda realises that Jimuthavahanan is a human being and not a snake he is taken aback. When he hears the words of Jimuthavahanan, he is moved and promises him not to kill any more snakes. He becomes a votary of non violence or ahimsa.

In his subsequent birth Jimuthavahanan becomes the enlightened Buddha.
This koodiyattam performance was directed by the veteran Guru Kalamandalam 'Rama Chakyar.