Chavittu Nadakam

Understand

Where Chavittu Nadakam comes from

Chavittu Nadakam is a colourful Latin Christian classical art form originating in Cochin (Kerala), specifically associated with the Latin Christians of Fort Kochi. The form developed in the 18th century under the influence of Portuguese theatrical traditions brought to Kerala with the colonial presence, though its narrative themes draw on European medieval romance — Charlemagne, the Crusades, the kings of France and the legends of the Holy Land — rather than on local Christian lore. The name comes from the Malayalam word chavittu meaning 'stamping of the foot'. The Kerala Tourism department has officially recognised Chavittu Nadakam as a distinctive Christian artform of the state, and a small revival is underway under troupes and societies in the Ernakulam area.

How it's practiced

Chavittu Nadakam is performed on a specially-built wooden stage raised about a foot above the ground — the percussion of stamping feet is part of the form's distinctive sound. The actors wear elaborate costumes with metallic headgear, breastplates and flowing cloaks drawn from European operatic tradition, with face-paint making the heroes and villains. The lead actor (the Katiyakaran) plays multiple roles, including narrating and providing dialogue for the main character. Stutiyogar plays the female lead. The drama is accompanied by chenda, maddalam and elathalam. The performance emphasises martial movement — sword-play, leaps, falls and the characteristic foot-stamping that gives the form its name.