Showcases Malabar's Rich Culture

Kolkali with a Martial Touch

- SHAN A S @T'Puram

N ART with a martial face to it. That could be one short definition of kolkali, an art form predominantly practiced in north Malabar. The performers donned in white mundu, undershirt, white head scarf and a broad waist belt, make dexterous moves striking the short stick (kol) at a feverish pace while singing Mappila poems penned by master wordsmiths such as Moyinkutty Vaidyar and others. The performers move in a circle, paying heed to the 'vaayithari' (oral commands) given by the lead performer, known as gurukal.

The state school arts fest on Monday witnessed a great display of this illustrious art at the Women's College auditorium at Vazhuthacaud. The competition was held in the High School category before a packed audience, many of whom were viewing the spectacle for the first time.