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Nalan
and Dhamayanthi
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The Nalacharitham, popularly known as the Sakunthalam of Kerala is
staged only in parts. The characters Nala, Damayanthy, Flamingo (Hamsam)
Kali, Demon, the Brahmin… are off-discussed. Interpretation of
these characters are the acid test of Kathakali actors. It needs both
strict Kathakali training and long experience in the field.
Nalacharitham is divided into 4 parts for the convinience of performance.
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Karkodakan,
the poisonous snake
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During the first day of performance the the romantic nature
of Nala and Damayanthy. The mission of the Flamingo, God's longing
to marry her, their attempt through Nala, Nala's messengership, their
union………….is enacted.
The second day's performance begins with the nuptials
of Nala and Damayanthy, Kalt's effect in their life, as he has vowed
to separate them, Nala's gambling with his brother Pushkara and losing
his wealth and kingdom. Nala's exodus to forest and his separation
from his wife.
During the third day Nala's encounter with Karkodakan,
Nala's change of form as Bahuka, his arrival to saketham, as a charioteer.
Arrival of Sudeva with the news of Damayanthy' second marriage, their
jouney to Vidarbha to partake in the proposed marriage of Dmayanthy
which is postponed due to one stranger.
During the fourth day of performance Damayanthy's visit to
Bahuka, her confirmation of Bahuka as Nala and their reunion is depicted.
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