Sarpam Tullal: A Ritualistic Performance of Kerala

Abstract

The folk performances of India have been highly enriched by regional variations, and those from Kerala are no exception. Kerala has the oldest Sanskrit tradition of theatre-acting still preserved in the form of koodiyattam performed by the Chakiars, a temple-centred upper caste. For instance, theyyam, thira, kanyarkali (North Malabar), kakkarassi, porattu, kummatti, kalakali (central and south Kerala) are still performed by certain castes. The serpents were worshipped for their benevolence. The entire Mannan community is involved in the ritualistic performance of sarpam tullal. During the monsoon in Kerala, the Pulluva (men) and the Pulluvathi (women) travel around the village visiting other houses and singing sarpam tullal songs. The enthusiasm of the people towards the ritual performance has waned and only the essential items are performed as part of the ritual. However, the situation is also changing rapidly in other and more positive ways.