Storytelling

#Storytelling

Storytelling, a rich cultural heritage of Kerala, has long been a vital part of temple festivals and local celebrations, with pioneers like V. Sambasivan and Kedamangalam Sadanandan bringing the art to prominence. However, with changing times, this art form has seen a decline in audience interest, primarily due to the emergence of modern entertainment forms. 

To revive storytelling, artists need to innovate by preserving the essence of traditional tales while incorporating contemporary elements. By blending age-old narratives with visual aids, interactive performances, or modern music styles, such as rap, they can create a hybrid art form that appeals to the youth. This fusion could attract a larger audience, ensuring the survival of storytelling for future generations.

Moreover, integrating storytelling with digital platforms can expand its reach beyond physical performances. Artists could explore collaborations with musicians, dancers, or theater groups to bring dynamism to their shows, while utilizing social media to promote their work to a global audience. Workshops and storytelling festivals could also be organized, focusing on the appeal of both traditional and modern aspects of the art.

 By staying rooted in tradition yet open to innovation, storytellers can make their art more relevant in the fast-evolving entertainment landscape, ensuring it remains an integral part of Kerala's cultural identity.

-K A Solaman