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Chakkiar
Koothu is a socio-religious art performed in the 'Koothambalams' or the
'Koothuthara' of temples, either independently or as a part of
Koottiyattam.
It is a solo narrative performance by the 'Chakkiar', interspersed with
mime and comic interludes. The 'Chakkiar' dons the role of 'Vidushaka' or
a wise jester.
Through his inimitable narration of stories from the Epics, the
'Chakkiar' satirizes the manners and customs of the time. No one is above
the butt of his ridicule.
His wit ranges from innocent mockery to veiled innuendoes, barbed pun and
pungent invectives. Koothu is
intermittently accompanied by the percussion instrument 'Mizhavu'.