Marking its 35th anniversary celebrations (Pavizholsav) and in connection with the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Day, the Folkland International Centre for Folklore and Culture organized a Seminar and Mudiyettu Performance at Alliance University, Bangalore. The event was held in collaboration with the Inter-City Cultural Network (ICCN), the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and IMACO (International Mask Arts & Culture Organization), Centre of Excellence in Indian Knowledge Systems and Centre for Performing Arts Alliance University, with generous CSR support from Dorf Ketal Chemicals Pvt. Ltd.
This initiative stood as a shining example of cultural continuity, celebrating the living heritage of India while fostering academic dialogue and intercultural understanding. Under the spirit of UNESCO’s ICH mission, the program highlighted how traditional performing arts like Mudiyettu continue to bridge generations, embodying both ritual devotion and artistic excellence.
The Essence of Mudiyettu: A UNESCO-Recognized Ritual Theatre
Mudiyettu, a ritual dance-drama from Kerala, holds a distinguished place in the global heritage landscape, having been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010.
Rooted in ancient mythology, Mudiyettu narrates the eternal battle between Goddess Kali and the demon Darika, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Traditionally performed in Bhadrakali or Bhagavathi temples across Central Kerala, particularly in the districts of Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Kottayam, the ritual integrates sacred performance, community participation, and artistic expression.
Beyond its religious significance, Mudiyettu serves as a cultural vehicle for transmission, instilling ethical values, communal unity, and aesthetic sensibilities among younger generations. It stands as a living heritage practice, sustained by oral traditions, craftsmanship, and performance skills passed through generations of artists and temple communities.
The Seminar: Academic Reflections on Cultural Continuity
The program commenced with the lighting of the traditional lamp, symbolizing wisdom and auspicious beginnings. The session was gracefully anchored by Harima, whose eloquence ensured a seamless flow throughout the proceedings.
The inaugural address was delivered by Dr. B. Priestly Shan, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of Alliance University, who lauded the initiative as a vital effort in nurturing India’s intangible cultural wealth within academic spaces.
In his keynote speech, Dr. B. Rajaram, eminent theatre director, actor, and Member of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, emphasized the therapeutic and educational power of cultural activities, noting how traditional arts like Mudiyettu restore balance and harmony in modern, fast-paced life.
Prof. A.M. Sreedharan, Director of the Indian Knowledge System Department, Alliance University, delivered the introductory address, setting the context for the seminar and connecting the event to India’s broader knowledge traditions.
Dr. V. Jayarajan, Chairman of Folkland and Secretary General of ICCN, offered a comprehensive insight into the process of UNESCO inscription, shedding light on Mudiyettu’s journey from a local ritual to a globally recognized heritage element. He elaborated on its symbolic and community dimensions, highlighting the role of Kerala’s temple communities in safeguarding this centuries-old tradition.
A warm welcome address was presented by Dr. Shruthi, followed by scholarly paper presentations by distinguished academicians and researchers including Prof. Sini M., Dr. Reksha Vasanth, Dr. V.P. Raghavan, Rooma, Prof. Bindu Ramachandran, Dr. Chary Agaru, Dr. Vijayaram, and Prof. M.N. Venkatesha. Their discussions spanned topics such as ritual symbolism, performance theory, community engagement, and the relevance of intangible heritage in contemporary education.
As a token of appreciation, Prof. A.M. Sreedharan presented mementos to the paper presenters, acknowledging their valuable contributions to folklore research and cultural studies.
The Evening Performance: A Divine Encounter with Tradition
As twilight descended, the academic atmosphere gracefully transitioned into an aesthetic and spiritual experience. The Mudiyettu performance by Keezhillam Unnikrishnan and his ten-member troupe from Kerala brought the mythical battle of Kali and Darika to life with vibrant visual energy, resonant percussion, and expressive dance movements.
The rhythmic intensity of Chenda, the dramatic chants, and the dynamic gestures of the performers enthralled the audience, transforming the university campus into a sacred space of ritual enactment. The students and faculty of Alliance University responded with spontaneous applause and rhythmic movement, reflecting genuine engagement and reverence for this living art form.
Cultural Impact and Reflections
The event was not merely a performance, but a dialogue between tradition and modernity a living testimony to how ritual arts can thrive within academic and urban spaces while retaining their sanctity. The collaboration between Folkland, ICCN, and Alliance University underscored the importance of interdisciplinary and intercultural exchange in sustaining heritage practices in the 21st century.
Through this initiative, Folkland reaffirmed its mission of fostering international cultural cooperation and preserving India’s rich intangible heritage. The celebration of Mudiyettu at a modern university setting symbolized the continuing relevance of traditional arts as instruments of identity, education, and peace echoing UNESCO’s vision of “Safeguarding Living Heritage for Sustainable Development.”