|
Nayyandi Melam
Nayyandi Melam or Chinna Melam is a rustic imitation of the classical
melam or Nadaswaram and is intended purely as an accompaniment to folk-dance-drama
to cater to the tastes of the unlettered audience. This orchestra consists
of two Nadaswarams, two tavels, a Pambai, a Thammukku, and a pair of cymbals.
The peculiarity of Nayyandi melam is that the instrumentalists also dance
while playing the instrument. The troupe is in demand as an accompaniment
to Karagam, Kavadi, Dummy-horse show, and gypsy-dance, popularly known
as the dance of the Kuravan and Kurathi. |
