Aṅgulīyāṅkam

Abstract

This chapter is an important contribution because Bhadra and Rajneesh are writing from the viewpoint of performers coming from a traditional background, also capable of presenting Kūṭiyāṭṭam in the ritualistic setup of annual temple performances. They give an explanation of the peculiarities of Aṅgulīyāṅkam in comparison with other plays in Kūṭiyāṭṭam and explain the structure of Aṅgulīyāṅkam according to a typical traditional performance lasting for 12 days. They explain the structure of the Namaskāra segment of Aṅgulīyāṅkam and identify it as the basis of all techniques for non-verbal acting in Kūṭiyāṭṭam. Each and every portion of this act can be elaborated as much as possible by an eminent actor. Thus, this act is recognized as the Veda for acting.