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 ?

Option 1 (I, III and IV) is correct. Statement I is true: Chakyar (Chakiar) Koothu is traditionally performed by members of the Chakyar caste [2]. Statement III is true: the mizhavu, a large pot-shaped drum played by Ambalavasi Nambiars, is the principal accompanying instrument for Chakyar Koothu [1]. Statement IV is true: the performance is staged in the koothambalam, the temple theatre specially designed for such ritual theatre forms [2]. Statement II is false: rather than being barred to higher-caste Hindus, historical descriptions note that these performances were staged inside temples and witnessed by Hindus of the higher castes [2].

Sources

1. [1] https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/music/mizhavu-is-a-sacred-instrument-that-accompanies-chakyar-koothu-performances/article19845862.ece
2. [2] https://www.indian-heritage.org/dance/dncefrms.htm