Kerala - Kochi   

A treat for Kathakali buffs

`Ravana Vijayam' is considered to be an important oeuvre among the vast repertory of Attakathas (Kathakali literature). It is a sample of the paradoxes of Kerala's classical art forms, where the characters usually dubbed as wicked and villainous turn out to be the heroes, not quite in disguise.

Composed by Kilimanoor Rajaraja Varma Koyithampuran, the story is in fact a celebration of Ravana, the anti-hero of the Ramayana. The title itself, which means `victory of Ravana,' describes the gist of the story. The play extols the triumphs of Ravana, which, of course, lead to his ultimate downfall.

Performance today

The Bank Employees Arts Movement Ernakulam (BEAME) is bringing on stage a presentation of the famous Kathakali on Friday. The venue will be Kerala Fine Arts Hall, Ernakulam. The performance will begin at 6.15 p.m.

The performance will be led by the noted Kathakali artiste Inchakkadu Ramachandran Pillai. The role of the Ravana of `Ravana Vijayam' is considered to be a masterpiece of Ramachandran Pillai, who adheres to the `Thekkan Chitta' or the South Kerala School of Kathakali. He is regarded as one of the senior-most masters of this school popular in the southern districts of Kerala, as opposed to the Kalluvazhi Chitta, followed by the northern districts, and especially at the Kerala Kalamandalam.

The story delineates Ravana's conquests including the battle with his own brother Vibhishana, who tries in vain to advise him against his wayward ways. After the battle with Vibhishana, Ravana comes across Rambha, the apsarasu (divine courtesan). Attracted by her beauty, Ravana molests her against her will. Then, he defeats Vaisravana, the king of Alakapuri, considered to be the richest among the rich, and seizes his aerial vehicle `Pushpaka Vimanam.' While returning, Ravana uproots Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Siva. However, pleased with all his valour, Siva presents him with the divine sword of Chandrahasa.

`Ilakiyattam'

Interestingly, a good portion of this Kathakali is performed only through `Ilakiyattam,' through mudras alone, without any vocal accompaniment. This portion gives ample chance for the actors to explore their histrionic talents.

Margi Vijayakumar dons the role of Rambha, with Kalamandalam Shanmughan appearing as the Doota (messenger) of Vibhishana. Vocal accompaniment will be provided by Palanad Divakaran, disciple of Kalamandalam Unnikrishna Kurup, with Nedumpilly Rammohan accompanying him. Kalamandalam Krishnadas will accompany on the Chenda and Nelluvai Narayanan Nair on the Maddalam.

Renu Ramanath

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