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. For a valiant and proud character like Ravana, a particular rhythm, vattathil chaduka or literally ‘jump in circles’ is used. In the video it is Guru P.K. Narayanan Nambiar, Mizhavu maestro, demonstrating the rhythm patterns.