padayani

This is ritualistic entertainment,mostly in vogue in many Devi temples,mainly in the districts of Kollam and alappuzha at places like Karakkattu,Pandalam,Kadamanitta and Chengannoor in Kerala.The performance has rich theatrical materials in it.

The performers use elaborately decorated masks and head gears made out of arecanut fronds painted with indigenious colors.Bhadrakali,Bhairavan,Kalan(Yama,the god of death) are all represented by actors wearing appropriately painted headgears.

Each character is called a Kolam,Kaln,kolam,Bhairavi Kolam etc.and in certain cases the head-gears are enormously built with 501 or 1001 palas (arecanu fronds) and they present beautiful visuals.When possessed the kolam has broad dancing steps and gestures.In between dances there occurs -dialogues and short scenes also.In a padayani,there are often kolams representing different strata of social orders also and occassionaly humerous charectors too.This adds to the theatrical quality of the whole performance.

In a minimum estimation at least a dozen persons are needed for the performance.There is no age restriction to participants.

No definite date could be ascribed to its origin.

No raised platform is needed.Often it is theatere-in-the-round at the temple premises.

Originally, lighted torches were used for lighting.

Then came pertolmax lights.

The procession of all the participants by the light of  country made torches made of dried coconut leaves is a wonderful visual experience.

Thappu,an indigenous musical instrument is used for accompaniment of the song and dance.

This ritualistic theater is believed to represent the victory celebration of Kaali after killing the Demon Darika.

 

A saree design developed from the traditoal art form Padayani.The extra warp and weft for figuring is designed to use pure Zari yarns(for motifs)Cross border jacquard is used to lift the design ends.
I believe that i have given a vogue idea about padayani,though i am not a professional textile designer,i tried a little to develop this design concept.Hope you enjoyed it!expecting your comments and suggestions.