Mizhavu training in Kutiyattam - the giant bird Jatayu appears

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. In the presentation of grand birds like Jatayu setting out for a journey, a particular rhythmic transition between dhruvathalam and lekshmithalam is used. In the video it is Guru P.K. Narayanan Nambiar, Mizhavu maestro, demonstrating the rhythm patterns.