Tamil drama is ancient. It is a part of Muthamil Vadivankal, namely Iyal, Isai and Nadakam. It is a form of all that penetrates deep into the human mind. In this lesson we shall look at drama from ancient times to Post Sangam Period.

Of the three aspects of Muthamil, Iyal expresses thoughts; Isai is the language that gives joy. Nadakam is realized through body language. The word Nadakam (drama), is first used in Tholkappiam. The art of drama, as distinct from life, is imaginative and aesthetic. Tholkappiar divides drama into two categories; Aadal and Koothu. Drama is a performing art which is a feast for the eyes and ears.

Sangam literature provides information on drama. This provides clear evidence for the early history of Tamil drama. We find the source of such information in Sangam Literature like Agananuru and Kalithogai. The literatures of Post Sangam Era are Thirukural and Cilapathikaram and works on drama, most of which have been lost.

Drama focusing on a story was called Koothu. If it emphasized movements, it was known as Aadal. For example Vallikoothu has been popular for generations, due to its story value. In Thunankaikoothu girls, joined hands and danced according to music. Kuravaikoothu, which was very popular, had many artists, dance to suitable background music. It was usually performed on white sands.

There were several types of Aadalkal or Aattankal. Verikattam was performed on hilly areas by Velan, who was blessed by Lord Murugan. It cured diseases of women.

Cilapathikaram mentions eleven types of dance. Madhavi performed these, during Indravizha. They are : Allium, Kodiketti, Pandarangam, Thudi, Kudaiyadel, Kudam, Pediyadal, Marakkaladal, Malladal, Paavaiyadal and Kadyam.

Aadukalangal or stage where plays were performed were also known as Avai or Arangu. During Sangam literature days, people danced in wide open spaces to celebrate festivals, joyous occasions or harvest. Thiruvalluvar refers to Kothattavai which is superior to Aadukalam. It is a stage enclosed on three sides. Cilapathikaram refers to Arangu. There are specific norms for the choice of the place. Further the measurements of the stage are 28 by 32 by 4. There should be an entrance and an exit. The lamp should be so lit, that the shadow of the pillar does not fall on the stage. There are three types of curtains. One is drawn from one side, another moves from the sides to the centre and the third moves up and down.

Certain guidelines were offered to actors. They are based on the fact that, acting reflects emotions through body movements, face and eyes. There is also reference to various types of musical instruments like Yazh and Kuzhal. In the very early times movements were not controlled. But later they controlled their movements according to the stage dimensions.

Drama had a glorious beginning in Tamil Literary history.