The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has ordered that the traditional folk dance Karakattam must not be distorted in any manner, either in the way it is performed or in the attire worn by artistes.
The direction came while hearing a petition seeking police permission and protection to conduct a Karakattam programme during a temple festival in a village in Tenkasi district. Justice L. Victoria Gowri heard the matter.
During the hearing, the government side submitted that programmes held in the name of Karakattam often do not reflect the actual art form, and are instead conducted like obscene dance and song performances.
In its order, the court noted that Karakattam is a celebrated Tamil folk art, traditionally performed as an offering to Mariamman, the rain deity. The dance is known for intricate movements while balancing pots on the head, requiring skill and concentration, and symbolising devotion.
Stating that the art form should not be compromised, the court said artistes must follow proper costumes, as depicted in the film Karakattakkaran. It directed the police to grant the petitioner permission to conduct the Karakattam event for one day.
