Kalamezhuthu (Dhulee Chithram)

Context (TH): A Kalamezhuthu workshop was recently organized by Maharaja’s College in Kerala.

Overview

• Kalamezhuthu is a communal ritualistic art form that is believed to have originated in the 9th century AD. It is traditionally performed to honor and worship deities like Bhadrakaali, Ayyappan, and Vettakkorumakan.
• The art form is also known by several other names, including Kalam Pattu, Kalamezhuthu Pattu, Dhumakkali in Kerala, and Kalam Karuppai in Tamil Nadu. The ritual uses only natural substances to create the Kalam, ensuring that the practice remains environmentally friendly.
• Historically, the artists who practice Kalamezhuthu come from specific communities such as the Kurups, Theyyampadi Nambiars, Theeyadi Nambiars, and Theeyadi Unnis. Each community has developed its own distinctive style and characteristics in the depiction of the Kalam.
• The creation of Kalamezhuthu demands intense focus and must adhere to specific religious guidelines, similar to the precision required in creating Thangka paintings. The artwork is crafted using colored powders derived from natural plant sources to produce intricate and vivid designs directly on the ground.
• Upon completion of the ritual, the drawings are deliberately erased, accompanied by the rhythmic beats and sounds of traditional musical instruments like the ilathalam, veekkanchenda, kuzhal, kombu, and chenda.