The stage arrangements of decoration consisted of tender coconut leaves,bunches of coconuts and green fugivorous banana plants. On the front side a big glowing lamp has to be placed of considerably big size,with oil and the wicks directed towards the audience and two are to face to face the performer.These three wicks symbolised the presence of the trinity in Hindu religion_Brahma,Vishnuand Maheswara.On
the right side of the stage(Koothambalam) a white folded cloth(dhoti)was spread and on it the Kuzhuthalam is placed. All these are done by the Nambyar who is the controller of the scene.After that the instrument called 'Mizhavu' is played on.
Mizhavu is vested with supreme divinity and is given great importance in all the solemn ceremonies like 'Namakaranam','Annaprasanam'etc.,which came under the 'ShodasaKriyas'related to traditional Hindu rites.There is also a traditional decree that if and when the instrument 'Mizhavu' became damaged at some peroid of time,obsequies have to be performed in a solemn manner to the instrument.Repair and re_utilisation is prohibited.
In 'Kadhakali', as the performance is introduced to the audience with the Keli,in Koothu playing of the Mizhavu indicates the commencement of the Koothu, an introduction to the audience.In Koothu and Koodiyattam,the actor or 'Nata' is in the forefront.The same importance is given to the Nambyar in Koothu.Only with the sent and blessings of the Nambyar can the Chakyar put on the costumes for the performance.As the Mizhavu is played behind the stage(Koothambalam),in the specially prepared dressing room,the Chakyar starts putting on the performance costume.This is a solemn ceremony as described hereunder.
Whatever be the technical flaws,the Chakyar should enter the stage only from behind the Nambyar.The Nangyar will be present in her pre-arranged place.These regulations regarding stage arrangements are traditionally holy and are to be strictly followed.
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