Kathakali
Ottan Thullal
A solo performce, due to its mighty mass appeal it is also known as the 'poor mans Kathakali. A single actor wears colourful costumes as in kathakali and recites thullal or dance songs while acting and dancing. Ottamthullal, evolved by Kunjan Nambiar as an alternative to Chakiar kith became the most popular folk art presented in Kerala temples. In Ottamthullal, a musician stands behind and gives the lead to the actor, another plays on 'Maddalam'or elongated drum and a third keeps the rhythm with a pair of cymbals. The popularity of Ottamthullal continues undiminished even today.
