UPSC Prelims 2000 · General Studies
Question 27: History and Culture
Consider the following statements regarding the Chakiarkoothu form of dance: I. It is performed by Chakiar caste. II. It cannot be traditionally witnessed by the higher caste Hindus. III. Mizhavu is the accompanying instrument. IV. Its theatre form is called koothambalam. Which of these statements are correct?
AnswerThe answer is (a).
Chakiarkoothu is a Kerala temple art performed by the Chakiar community, with a Chakiar telling stories from the Puranas in witty monologue, accompanied by the mizhavu, a large copper drum played by Nambiars, and staged in the koothambalam, the temple theatre. Statement II is wrong: the claim that higher-caste Hindus could not watch it is the reverse of the tradition.
- I. It is performed by the Chakiar community.
- II. It was staged in temples for the caste Hindu audience; the claim is the reverse of tradition.
- III. The mizhavu drum accompanies it.
- IV. Its theatre is the koothambalam.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Right: I, III and IV are correct.
- (b) II is false, so this option is wrong.
- (c) II is false, and it also leaves out I.
- (d) II is false, and it leaves out III.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2000, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.