Central Idea

Kathaprasangam began as a medium to narrate stories of oppression, untouchability, and human resilience.
Today, it finds a place of relevance and renewal in the digital age, captivating audiences, both young and old.

Kathaprasangam

Kathaprasangam is a stage art form of Kerala, which was popular in the mid-twentieth century.
Kathaprasangam owes its inception to Kumaranasan (1873-1924), a Malayalam poet who aimed to educate and inspire underprivileged sections of society.
He sought to propagate the principles of Sree Narayana Guru and his poems.
It started a century ago, touching on themes of oppression, untouchability, and human triumphs.
It uses a blend of prose and song, accompanied by a harmonium and tabla, to retell stories.
Young performers compete in this art form, earning marks that influence their promotions.
It is celebrated for its ability to communicate with urgency and directness, addressing societal issues.

Kathaprasangam, born out of the fight against casteism and superstitions, holds even more significance today as religious identities are asserted with violence, posing a threat to societal harmony.
While newer forms of entertainment have gained popularity, they still attract young audiences eager to learn and share stories using new media platforms.