TIRUPUR: A traditional folk arts “arangetram” programme organised by Sangamam Kalaikuzhu, with participation ranging from children to senior performers, was held on the North Kamatchiyamman Temple ground at Rakkiyapalayam in Tirupur district.The event was chaired by troupe coordinator P Kanagaraj. The programme marked Sangamam Kalaikuzhu’s 115th Oyilattam arangetram, 18th Vallikummi arangetram and 16th Kambattam arangetram.Proceedings began with prayers and a tribute to freedom fighters, followed by the introduction of artistes, the Tamil Thai Vazhthu and a welcome address. A pledge was taken before each performance, after which the arangetram segments were staged.Kanagaraj said the group provides free training by mobilising interested participants in villages in Coimbatore, Tirupur, Erode, the Nilgiris and other districts, and conducts arangetram programmes after completion of training. He said men and women aged between six and 60 perform in a common uniform, and the performances are staged only in traditional attire such as pavadai, davani, sari, veshti and angavastram. He added that people from all religions and communities take part, and that women’s participation has increased significantly in recent times.
