Kuthu is the name given in common to the art forms performed by chakyirs and nangiars traditionally.The kuthuambalams in the temple premises form the stage for kuthu.
The mizhavu played by the nambiar and the kuzhuithalam played by the nangiar are indispensable aspects of kuthu.
The mathavilasam kuthu is usually performed as an offering in temples of Lord Siva. Likewise the anguliankam kuthu or hanuman kuuthu is performed as an offering in temples where Rama is the main shrine. The nangiar kuthu, as the name indicates is performed solely by Nangiars. Prabhanda kuthu is the most prevalent form of kuthu at present. Here the chakiyar assumes a role somewhat similar to that of the jester in Kudiyattam. Here an extract from any prabhanda(a sanskrit text containing prose and verse compositions) is elaborated and interpreted by the chakiyar. The audience is also assigned the role of some character by the chakiar and then he becomes the stock of chakiayar’s humour.
