COSTUMES
First the Chakayar should wash his face and feet. Then he should perform the 'Achamana'(holy drink) and then light the lamp after sprinkling himself with water with the fingers. After that he can tie the red piece of cloth on his head. After tying the holy red cloth as head gear, it is assumed that he will not be affected by any sort of unholiness which are attributed after death or dellivery. Then there is the ceremony called 'Mukhathuthekkal',i.e.,applying, colours on the face.
According to the 'Natya Sastra' the colouring should be white as this is symbolic of the host of Gods. Since the gesture is associated with comedy,the colour white is applied to the face. This white powder is made out of grounded rice. Black coloured paste is applied profusely on the lids of eye and the moustache. The deep red coloured paste is applied on the forehead. This is prepared by mixing turmeric and lime powder. Five marks on the face and two each on the arms is the rule.
The head should have a long tuft and the crown on the head(Vasikam)should have peacock feathers. He should also have flowers on both ears, and amulets on his wrists. He should wear the firdle(Kati Sutram)also. Along with flowers on the right ear, betel leaves are also folded and kept. On the left ear, he should have an ornamental pendant hanging.On his loin he should have a folded cloth tied round. This is called 'Mattu', the term used conventionally.
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