In heart of Kerala,PK Narayanan,a 72-year-old performer of the ancient storytelling tradition known as Raveli pattu, continues to keep the art alive. Sitting crosslegged before a scroll adorned with intricate illustrations,he begins his performance with silent prayer, his voice weaving through tales in ancient Malayalam . This unique form of folk storytelling, traditionally practiced during the month of Karkkadakam in the Ernakulam region,is now on the brink of extinction.
Raveli pattu, also referred to as Blaveli pattu, has its roots in Veerasaiva community,which migrated from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu centuries ago. Historically,performers would visit homes,singing praises of Lord Shiva in exchange for offerings of rice,coconut,and occasionally cash. This ritual was believed to bring positivity during Karkkadakam, a month often associated with misfortune.
However, urbanization and changing socio-economic conditions have severely diminished the number of practitioners. Narayanan,who began accompanying his father at the age of 15, now performs only upon request. “I rarely perform these days,except for researchers and students interested in this vanishing art form,” he explains . None of his three children have shown interest in carrying on the tradition,which is a
Despite decline,there are efforts to document and preserve this nearly forgotten art. Sajitha G,a Professor of Malayalam at T M Jacob Memorial College,has dedicated her research to Raveli pattu since her MPhil thesis in 2001. She recalls her childhood experiences,watching Narayanan’s father perform at her home. “Even though we didn’t understand the stories, we were captivated by performances,” she says.
The narratives sung during Raveli pattu often draw from the Periya Puranam,an epic Tamil poem chronicling the lives of 63 Nayanars,revered poets of Shaivism. One particularly harrowing tale involves Chiruthonda Nayanar, who, tested by Lord Shiva disguised as ascetic, sacrifices his only son to fulfill the divine request for a meal. The story, while violent,serves as testament to depth of devotion within the tradition .
As the art form faces extinction, the economic aspects of its evolution also come to light. Historically,during the rainy season of Karkkadakam,the Veerasaiva community found innovative ways to sustain themselves, leading to the development of this storytelling tradition . The scrolls used in performances,once crafted from mul cloth and rice batter, have transitioned to modern materials like PVC, with illustrations now often outsourced to artists.
Despite the challenges,Narayanan remains hopeful. He acknowledges the importance of documenting their heritage . “It’s heartening to see that attempts are being made to preserve our art,” he states. Yet,he laments the loss of traditional skills,noting that few in his generation possess ability to create the intricate illustrations that once characterized their scrolls.
The name Raveli pattu itself has various interpretations,with theories suggesting it may derive from Kidavubali,meaning 'child sacrifice'. This reflects the complex history and cultural significance embedded within the tradition. As Narayanan carries forward the legacy of his ancestors,he recognizes the weight of stories he tells .
Amidst decline, there are glimmers of hope. Aromal Sajeev, a Plus Two student from Kadayirippu, has stepped into the role of performer following the death of his father, Sajeev Sivan. Though he admits to not being fully versed in the art,he takes requests from families eager to experience Raveli pattu . “I used to accompany my father, so I have some idea of how it’s done,” he shares.
The future of Raveli pattu remains uncertain,but the passion of individuals like Narayanan and Sajeev offers a lifeline to this ancient tradition. As they navigate the challenges of modernity,their commitment to storytelling preserves a vital piece of Kerala’s cultural heritage.
