"Parampara koi bhootkaal nahin, jeevit vartaman hain!" Echoing this sentiment, the Hindu College chapter of SPIC MACAY organised a powerful Koodiyattam recital on Tuesday at the Sanganeria Auditorium of the college. It is said that when masters performed koodiyattam, even the flames of the oil lamps went out as if the very air was listening.
Koodiyattam is among India's oldest living theatrical traditions, being practiced for over 2000 years in Kerala. It was recognized by UNESCO in 2001 as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth (SPIC MACAY) focuses on the promotion of Indian culture among school and college students.
<p>Margi Madhu Chakyar performs Koodiyattam as students enjoy the art form<br></p>
It's heartening to see the enthusiasm of students involved in organising classical and traditional forms of our great heritage and culture! Today's performance truly captivated the young audience across Delhi University, making it a mesmerizing event
Prof. Anju Srivastava, principal of Hindu College
The performance depicted multiple avatars of Lord Vishnu in a one-man show by Margi Madhu Chakyar, legendary Koodiyattam exponent. He was accompanied by musicians on percussion instruments from Kerala, who brought the story to life. The rise and fall of the instruments reflected the unfolding of the plot and kept the audience engaged.
Koodiyattam allowed students to learn about the ancient art form through a spiritual and interpretive dance. Founder of SPIC MACAY, Dr. Kiran Seth said, "It's been a long time since we've planned an event like this at Hindu College. It's an abstract and subtle art form. It brings concentration, a sense of equanimity, and patience. It helps students gain a respect for the abstract and understanding of the subtle and the mystical."
It’s always an uplifting experience because you already know these stories, but when they’re told through dance, everything slows down — the literature, music, dance and theatre come together
Karni Singh, an alum of St. Stephen’s who attended the event
"Youngsters are very talented and they enjoy classical performances. The problem is that our education does not encourage them to learn about culture. If we give them the chance to see these kinds of classical performances of music, dance and theatre, they can learn from it and change their perception. They learn patience and concentration through it," said Koodiyattam maestro Margi Madhu Chakyar. He portrayed a multitude of characters and emotions, including a realistic death scene of Ravana after he is killed by Ram.
<p>Dr. Kiran Seth, founder of SPIC MACAY at the event<br></p>
The audience was entranced by the show, Balacharitam, a Sanskrit play composed by ancient playwright Mahakavi Bhasa. "I've never seen anything like this! Seeing the artist's expressions up-close was a great experience, one completely different from watching it on a screen," said Aviral Verma, a student of Hindu College.
"In my opinion, today's event felt divine — almost as if God himself was performing on the Hindu College stage. It was truly mesmerising. As a Sanskrit student, I feel fortunate to have witnessed Sanskrit expressed in this way. I believe this dance form helps deepen others' understanding of the language too," shared Sushant Ranjan, president of SPIC MACAY Hindu College chapter. The gravitas of storytelling was visible even in the quiet moments of the performance.
Get an chance to win ₹5000 Amazon Voucher by taking part in India's Biggest Habit Index! Take the survey hereSara Siddiqui writes about city, lifestyle and culture. She's a D...
Read MoreSara Siddiqui writes about city, lifestyle and culture. She's a Delhiite and can be found around books.
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