KOODIYATTAM – KERALA’S ANCIENT THEATRICAL TRADITION

Abstract

For over 2,000 years, Koodiyattam has survived as the oldest living form of Sanskrit drama, evolving into a pan-Indian dramatic tradition. While local interest has waned, international recognition and funding have revived its practice. With continued support from the Kerala government, Sangeet Natak Akademi, UNESCO, and Japan’s Funds-in-Trust, Koodiyattam is regaining prominence. If challenges of accessibility and popularization are addressed, its future will remain bright as a flourishing component of India’s intangible cultural heritage. Koodiyattam, having survived for over two millennia on its aesthetic merit, remains the longest-sustained form of Sanskrit theatre. It has now transformed into a pan-Indian dramatic tradition.  International interest now outweighs local interest, with funding provided by the Kerala Ministry of Culture, SNA, UNESCO, and Japan's Funds-in-Trust.  If current hurdles are cleared, Koodiyattam's future appears bright, and it will continue to flourish as India's intangible cultural heritage.