Theoretical Study of Two Ethnic Performances - TiṟAyāṬṭaṁ and Sarppaṁtuḷḷal Interpretations Using Dhvani Theory

Abstract

Artistic expressions and aesthetic responses are ubiquitous in human worlds. They are flexible and versatile, ranging from cave paintings to street art, oral narratives to poetic expressions, and mimes to theatre performances. Of these, some expressions are rooted in local identities and cultures, while others are free from the clutches of locale. However, a general theoretical framework unifying different kinds of aesthetic expressions remains underdeveloped. Representatively, ethnic art forms of Kerala, such as Tiṟayāṭṭaṁ and Sarppaṁtuḷḷal, though popular among the masses, are yet to be brought within a satisfactory theoretical framework. Descriptive and exploratory studies on ethnic performances have focused mainly on socio-political aspects of artistic performances. In preference, Ānadhavardana’s theory of suggestion (dhvani) provides a theoretical framework for analysing literary expressions. Could this theory be used to develop a theoretical framework for expressions in general?