Question

Identify the correct statements regarding 'Margam Kali' the ritual art form popular among certain sects of the Christian community of Kerala

1. Margam Kali is the most popular Christian art form in Kerala, primarily performed at Christian wedding ceremonies and feasts in churches.
2. In Margam Kali a dozen dancers sing and dance clapping around a Nilavilakku wearing the traditional "Chattayum Mundum".
3. The lamp represents Christ and the performers his 12 disciples.
4. The Margam Kali Pattu, consisting of about 4000 lines, narrates the miracles performed by St. Thomas at Malankara.

• A. iii only
• B. iv only
• C. iii, iv
• D. All of these

Answer 1

Answer:

D. All of these

Margam Kali:

• Margam Kali is the most popular Christian art form in Kerala, primarily performed at Christian wedding ceremonies and feasts in churches.
• Typically presented in a group, mainly by women, Margam Kali requires performers to have a sense of rhythm and agility for a successful performance.
• Originally performed by men, Margam Kali is now also presented by women. 
• Margam Kali holds cultural significance, blending storytelling, dance, and music to portray religious themes and narratives, particularly associated with Christian traditions in Kerala.

Performance

• Margam kali is performed by 12 dancers sing and dance clapping around a Nilavilakku wearing the traditional "Chattayum Mundum".
• The lamp represents Jesus Christ and the performers as his 12 disciples.
• The performance is usually held in two parts ("padham") and begins with songs and dances narrating the life of Saint Thomas, the apostle. 
• The Margam Kali Pattu, consisting of about 4000 lines, narrates the miracles performed by St. Thomas at Malankara.
• It is believed to have been written in the 17th century by Kallissery Itti Thoman Kathanar.