Koodiyattam Theatre Tradition – Preservation Initiatives

In September 2025, the Sangeet Natak Akademi announced an enhanced fellowship program to support Koodiyattam practitioners and residential gurukul systems.

Artistic Features and Ritualistic Roots

  • Koodiyattam is a two-thousand-year-old Sanskrit theatre tradition performed exclusively in the temples of Kerala.
  • It was recognized by UNESCO (2001) as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage.
  • Performance takes place in specialized temple theatres known as Koothambalams to maintain its ritualistic purity.
  • Mizhavu, a large copper drum, is the primary percussion instrument used to provide rhythmic accompaniment.
  • The art form emphasizes prolonged stylized acting where a single act can last several nights.

Institutional Preservation and Training

  • The Sangeet ....
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