நாமக்கல் மாவட்ட தெருக்கூத்து மரபில் கட்டியக்காரன் பாத்திரம்: ஒரு சமூக-பண்பாட்டு மற்றும் இனவரைவியல் ஆய்வு

The Role of the Kattiyakkaran in the Street Theatre (Therukoothu) Tradition of Namakkal District: A Socio-Cultural and Ethnographic Study

Abstract

Therukoothu, one of the ancient art forms of Tamil Nadu, serves not only as a tool for entertainment but also as a powerful medium for transmitting social values and as a ritual of worship. Particularly in the districts of Namakkal and Salem, which represent the heart of the Kongu region, the Therukoothu tradition is distinguished by its local dialect, intense rhythmic beats, and ritualistic precision. This article comprehensively examines the multifaceted nature of the 'Kattiyakkaran' character within the Namakkal district Therukoothu tradition. The Kattiyakkaran is not merely a common comic character; he acts as the orchestrator (Sutradhara), stage coordinator, translator, and social critic. Through the narratives of the Mahabharata, this article analyzes the origin, makeup, and symbolism of this character, as well as the concepts of social justice transmitted through him. Furthermore, this research expands upon the historical background of the Kongu country, its agriculture-based clan deity worship systems, and the evolutionary development of Therukoothu in response to modern changes.