Discovery and Restoration of an Obsolete Form of Mahidikkoothu in the Mullaitivu Region - A Study

Abstract

Mullaitivu is a region in the northern part of Sri Lanka with a long tradition and history in the development of Kooththu Art.  Here, talented Annavimars, Performers of Kooththu, script writers, Pakkapattu artists, costume and makeup artist, etc., are found. The lifestyle of the people is revealed in this village in a special way through Kooththu. Thus, the Mahidikkooththu practiced here is a people-centred stage-based form, combining stories, societies, and events of the time and performing it in an open space with specific stage elements. This Kooththu has not changed with the passage of time, the arrival of modern theatre, and place names. However, this form of Kooththu is necessary to connect people with the contemporary theatre trend and to express their creative potential. In addition, it is a medium to pass on theatre techniques and its unique features to the younger generation. Thus, the social, economic and cultural factors that led to the obsolescence of the Mahidikkooththu, which was performed fifty years ago in the Mullaitivu region, are identified and re-examined, its performance system and its subsequent status are examined through the process. Since this study is a sociological study, the research methodology of Exploratory Method and Qualitative Research Design were followed. When the performance is performed through fieldwork, data is collected and analyzed. The purpose of the study is to revive an obsolete performance form. The research problem is the failure to revive Mahidikkooththu.