Click to play videoKerala: Onam is round the corner, and the Kummattis (mask dance performers) add colour to the festivity in Thrissur district in Kerala.
A group of performers of the mask dance, from all castes, dances in tune with the traditional ballads.
The entire body of the performer is donned with Parpatakappullu, a medicinal green grass that earned the name Kummaattippullu by virtue of its application to the play.
The fragrance of this grass invigorates the artiste. The art form it seems was first staged before Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi.
“Shiva's Bhuthaganas are the main characters of the Kummattikkali. It has its own traditional costumes and masks,” says Kummattikkali performer and Researcher, PV Pual.
One of the major attractions of Kummaattikkali is the mask. The most important character in the play is the Thalla - the Grandmother. The characters take on social evils and erring leaders. The dancers follow a rhythmic choreography in a fluid pattern.
“I am a performer of Kummaati for the last twenty seven years. It's an important celebration during Onam days,” says P Sivan.
Kummattikkali has special significance during Onam, as it marks the ceremonial welcome to the banished king Mahabali, who comes to visit his kingdom every year.
Dancers in the attire of Mahabali and other gods add color accompanied by drums and traditional art forms.
Kummaatti is an expression of religious harmony, as performers belonging to different faiths take part.
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