Kreupasanamm Chavitunadakam Publications

In the past, the Chavittunatakom was performed on open stages, though sometimes the interior of a church was also a venue. Chavittunadakam is a folklore art practiced by Roman Catholics belonging to Latin Rite in the districts of Thrissur, Ernakulam and Alappuzza of Kerala state in India. The art form was evolved during 16th century with the influence of Portuguese who came to Kerala Malabar coast for trade and missionary work. Tradition says that Portuguese were impressed by the early forms of Kathakali and took initiative with the local scholars to develop a new musical dance-drama art form mixing Kathakali and European Miracle Play. Offshoot of theatre, this form of play was prevalent among the Christian community spanning from Kodungallur (Thrissur District) to Ambalappuzha (Alappuzza District). Training is provided to performers before staging the play.