KOZHIKODE: The committee designated by the previous state government to induct tribal art forms in the state school kalolsavam had suggested adding Vattakali and Mangalam Kali. Vattakali is being performed by Paniya tribe and Mangalakali by Mavila, Malavetuva tribes. But it was not going to be included in the event in Kannur next month as the amendment of the manual will take time.
“It is unlikely that kalolsavam in Kannur witness the staging of tribal art forms. Vattakali and Mangalamkali are ritualistic hence should be performed adhering to the custom and tradition,” said Kerala Institute for Research Training and Development Studies (Kirtads) deputy director (training) Dr K.S. Pradeep Kumar, who was part of the committee. Another importance is that if the committee’s recommendations are accepted the two art forms would become the first dance item in the kalolsavam to be performed jointly by boys and girls.
Though there are common items under which boys and girls perform as a team, there is no mixed item like drama. The recommendations include making the art form restricted to students belonging to tribal community for at least ten years. This clause has been put to prevent its hijacking by schools vying to get points. Babu V.C., a Theyyam artiste in Wayanad, described it as a good move. “It would definitely popularise tribal arts thereby more people come to know about their art and culture,” he said.
