Poorakkali is one of the prominent ritual art forms of northern Kerala, especially in Kasargod and Kannur district. It is staged by a group of artists in the Bhagavathy temple premises and in front of sacred Bhagavathy Kavus and shrines. This is an integral part of pooram festival celebrated during the month of Meenam i.e. during March-April. The festival lasts for 9 days, starting from Karthika day to Pooram day. Pooram is celebrated to mainly praise the god of love named Kamadeva. Though pooram is mainly meant for the women folk and maiden young ladies, this poorakkali is performed by men folk. It is said that in ancient days poorakkali was performed by women folk. A group leader who is well versed in the art and poorakkali songs leads the other artists in the group. This person is known as Panikkar. The song sung by the group leader is always repeated by the other artists and that too in chorus. This is a dance rhythmically around a sacred lamp with elegant steps. While dancing the players clap their hands uniformly to the tune of the song and according to the Thalam by the group leader. Poorakkali has got 18 different forms. These ritual songs sometimes narrate the stories from epic like Ramayana and easily able to attracts the older generation.
The ritual dance form authorizes intense training and good physical stamina. This dance form has some unique features, which can cater the attraction of the spectator very well like the forward and backward movements and the abrupt variations in the speed and directions.
This art also includes Marathukali. This is mainly a question answers session that is carried out by the opponent leaders and in this form the answers should be prompt and smart. This splendid ritual art form has become the monopoly of certain castes namely Yadavas or Maniyanis, Thiyyas or Ezhavas, Mukayas, Saliyas, etc. of Hindu religion.
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