Gati in Theory and Practice
by Dr. Sujatha Mohan | 2015 | 88,445 words
This page relates ‘Terukuttu’ of the study on the Theory and Practice of Gati (“gait”) which refers to the “movement of a character on the stage”, commonly employed (as a Sanskrit technical term) in ancient Indian Theatrics and the Dramatic arts, also known as Natya-shastra. This thesis explores the history and evolution of Gati and also investigates how the various Gatis are employed in regional performance traditions.
Terukūttu
[Full title: Desi forms of Tamilnadu (5): Terukūttu]
Therukuttu is a popular folk dance theatre that is performed on the streets. It starts with the entry of the Kaṭṭiyakāran who walks around the stage with a suitable gait and introduces the play. Each important character is introduced through the hand held curtain. The gaits vary according to the character. Karaṇas like atikrānta, krānta, etc. are seen in the majestic gait of male characters. The main characters perform the whirling movements known as girikai for rhythmic patterns known as ‘āditalamerardu’. This can be compared with the vardhamanas of the Nāṭyaśāstra.[1]