Kozhikode: Balan Poyilkkavu, a ‘Kuthira kolam’ artist from Quilandy has won State Folklore award. The seventy-year-old started his artistic career at the age of 30. Age does not tire the energetic artist. He says, "When I perform, even kids say that I am a good horse. Now, nobody is bothered about the traditional art form."
'Kuthira kolam’ is a ritualistic folk art form which has been in practice in the Malabar region of Kerala. The folk art form represents the joy in Lord Sreeram’s victory in war. The person who dons as the 'Kuthira kolam' dances to glory in the temple courtyard celebrating Sreeram’s victory. The dancer wears a mask-like head of a horse made of 'pala' - the sheath of palm leaves and 'kuruthola' - thin tender strands of blooming coconut leaves leaf shoots, is worn around the waist.
He works as a daily wage labourer for livelihood.No matter whether it be working on laterite stones, climbing coconut trees, building sea walls or working in hotels, the experienced artist remains undeterred. Balan finds utmost bliss and happiness when he dances donning the ‘Kuthira kolam.’He also says that 'Kuthira kolam' sets the pulse of this place and people here.
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Besides being a 'Kuthira kolam' artist, Balan has proved his talent and skill in crafts. He has also been a lifesaver in many emergency situations. He has saved five people from drowning, thanks to his skills in swimming. The brave man does not resist to jump into well for saving lives, he has saved three people from wells. In addition, he has also saved a girl who accidentally got lashed in heavy undercurrents.
The artist whose nerve and sinew is always set in rhythmic mode finds art in everything he sees around. Balan says that there are different forms and shapes in coconut husks, stones, tree roots, and branches. When he is given a granite stone he turns it into a rat or a frog. Balan has crafted many types of birds, animals, tortoise, boat. He has even made Oommen Chandy’s form on coconut husk.
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