Kurathiyattom is usually performed by Kurathis - a set of gypsies who go about from place to place telling fortunes. In this dance, two kurathis in the role of the wives of
Lord Vishnu and
Lord Shiva, enter dancing. They perform a controversy through songs over the exploits of their respective husbands. The favorable point in one's favor becomes the butt of ridicule at the other's hands and while one praises profusely the other condemns sarcastically. After this the male character (kuravan) and the female character (kurathi) enact a mock quarrel. The dance is performed to the accompaniment of instruments such as
madalam and kaimani.
