Mumbai, November 10, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Singer Sona Mohapatra has described a traditional Ottanthullal performance as the highlight of her Diwali getaway in Kerala, praising the art form’s remarkable combination of music, dance, theatre, poetry, comedy and storytelling.
Sharing photographs and a video from her family holiday on Instagram, Sona said the performance left her spellbound and eventually moved her to tears.
She described how two artistes – a performer and a mridangam player – held the audience’s attention through their exceptional command over their respective crafts.
Ottanthullal is a traditional solo recitation-and-dance art form that originated in Kerala and is known for its humour, sharp wit and social satire.
Recounting the performance, Sona explained that its story revolved around Draupadi sending Bhima in search of the fragrant Kalyanasougandhikam flower. She was particularly impressed by the lead artiste’s ability to switch between characters, voices, expressions and moods almost instantly while delivering complex musical compositions and performing energetic dance movements.
The singer, herself a vocalist, also marvelled at the performer’s breath control and ability to draw from Kerala’s folk and classical musical traditions.
She praised the mridangam player for creating an elaborate musical soundscape, using rhythm and dramatic effects while also doubling as the chorus.
The comedy was another aspect that stood out for her. Sona appreciated the artiste’s spontaneous and intelligent humour, including his interactions with unsuspecting audience members, saying it brought everyone into the storytelling without relying on cheap insults.
Encouraging festival organisers and event planners to consider the performance for different occasions, she said Ottanthullal could captivate audiences not only at temples, auditoriums and heritage festivals but also at weddings, private gatherings, corporate events and international stages.
She added that the art form’s physical storytelling, music and humour could engage audiences even when they did not understand every word of Malayalam.
Sona also shared that she had read more about the art form after returning home. Ottanthullal dates back to the 18th century and is traditionally associated with poet Kunchan Nambiar.
FOLLOW NOW
