Rajan Poduval presents Ashtapadiyattam dance drama

With a view to revive the extinct art form and present on the stage in the true spirit of our classical tradition, I have my own modest way decided to systematize the above art form. It is believed that Ashtapadiyattam existed as an art form even before the advent of Krishnanattam and Ramanattam. However, this particular art form is extinct now. Nobody is able to say anything for certain about the art form or content of Ashtapadiyattam. There is only a summary ascertain by Scholars that Krishnanattam and Ramanattam are evolved from Ashtapadiyattam. Kalamandalam Krishnankutty Poduval, a mercurial genius and a winner of the many laurals conducted series of research and initiated the work on this subject but with his passing away in 1992 the Project has not pursued further. It is my earnest desire now to revive Ashtapadiyattam and made series of endeavours towards it and finally presented on 28th May 2013 at Kerala Kalamandalam. 

The original Geethagovindam contains 24 divisions and 96 stanzes (slokas). Out of these, part from 12 divisions is considered for this project with related slokas. Each scenario would be such with a view to maintaining the sequences but avoiding repetitions. The main characters will be Krishna, Radha, Jayadeva and Padmavathi and gopikas to support rasaleela. Presentation of the art form is a mix from the traditional Kathakali and Dance Drama style.

Born in 1957 in a family of art, Rajan Poduval's parents Late Kalamandalam Krishnankutty Poduval and Late Radha Poduvalsiar were both reputed artists of their time. He had the advantage of obtaining basic lessons of Chenda, dance, music and other temple rituals at the very tender age from his father. Rajan Poduval has also undergone scientific training in Kathakali Dance under the guidance of Guru Kalamandalam Govindankutty and participated in various Kathakali and Dance Drama competitions organised by Calcutta Kalamandalam.

Rajan Poduval has also organised various cultural shows/festivals at various prominent places of India with the support of leading performing artists in the field of Chendamelam, Panchavadyam, Thayambaka, Chakyarkoothu, Ottanthullal, Mohiniyattom, Bharathanatyam, Kathakali, etc. He has also produced a documentary film on Kalamandalam Krishnankutty Poduval which has won wide appreciation from the art lovers and in token of recognition Kalakshetra, Chennai honoured him during the Kathakali Festival organised by Kalakshetra on 7 – 9 September 2009.