Harikatha Kalakshepam is an art of story telling practiced in
Tamil Nadu. This performance, which lasts for three to four hours, involves the themes from various epics like ‘Meenakshi Kalyanam’, ‘Sita Kalyanam’ and ‘Rukmini Kalyanam‘.
The narration is done by a single artist and is accompanied by music. This artist must be well versed in various subjects and scriptures. He must have command over his words. He must possess a loud voice. He should be able to captivate the audience’s attention throughout the performance by his sheer skill of narration. The performance requires deep study of various religious scriptures and mythologies, with the ability to merge latest information to the narration.
The artist holds a pair of wooden planks called ‘Chappalakkattai’ in one hand, while narrating the various epics. He modulates his voice appropriately to give proper effect during his performance. The narration is usually fast, delivered in a rhythmic fashion accompanied by appropriate music. Music plays a very important role in maintaining the mood.
