In Kutiyattam, the traditional Sanskrit dance drama of Kerala, Mizhavu, a large instrument plays a great role. Apart from giving a background music, it also sets the mood of the performance.

Different kinds of rhythms are used in different situations. As a woman sets out on a journey, a particular rhythm called “chollundi nadatham” is used. In the video it is Guru P.K. Narayanan Nambiar, Mizhavu maestro, demonstrating the rhythm patterns.