Post doc summary

The evolution of the 'Nayika'(heroine/protagonist) in contemporary Mohiniyattam Practice

The objective of the study is to understand the evolution of the 'nayika' (heroine) concept in Mohiniyattam performances, by a comparative study of the themes and works popular among Mohiniyattam performers prevalent in the colonial period , and contemporary works. The study covers the social structures which extended patronage to classical dance forms like Mohiniyattam in the colonial period and their influence on the identity of the protagonist, the Nayika. To expand on the above, the study will closely examine some of the works of the renowned composer, Swathi Thirunal of Travancore, who composed some of the most popular compositions used for Mohiniyattam performances in the 19th century. In this backdrop, the study will then critically analyse the compositions and works of contemporary Mohiniyattam, to explore the evolution of the feminine character. This is done through an examination of the works of some of the contemporary practitioners of Mohiniyattam. In conclusion, the study attempts to map the emergence of the new 'nayika', and the contours of the evolving dance form