In a remarkable fusion of traditional Indian art forms and Western cultural narratives, the kathakali play titled Da Vinci Porul, meaning ‘Decoding Da Vinci,’ has taken center stage in Kerala. This theatrical presentation, inspired by the enigmatic works of Leonardo da Vinci, was showcased at the Thrissur Regional Theatre on April 1. What makes this play truly unique is not just its artistic foundation, but its roots in a response to the popular novel The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown.
The genesis of Da Vinci Porul can be traced back to retired government official Francis Antony Kodankandath, who devoted over two decades to transform his artistic vision into a full-fledged kathakali performance. His series of twelve paintings, created in the early 2000s, aimed to challenge Brown’s controversial interpretation of da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper, particularly the portrayal of Mary Magdalene as Jesus Christ’s wife.
Anthony’s work delves deep into the geometric symmetries of da Vinci’s art, a practice he believes unveils hidden messages embedded within the original mural. As he explains, “Da Vinci’s use of mirror images and a pointed finger to convey secret meanings is well-documented. In my paintings, I employed similar techniques, demonstrating that the positioning of Jesus’ arms creates an ‘X’ and that a circle drawn from axis points reveals the Holy Grail and Holy Bread.” His interpretations form the backbone of this innovative kathakali play, allowing for a dialogue between cultures and epochs.
Kathakali, a classical dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes and intricate storytelling, typically narrates Hindu mythological tales. However, Da Vinci Porul boldly steps outside the conventional narratives, bringing forth a contemporary discourse on faith, art, and interpretation. Through expressive choreography and vivid imagery, the play not only pays homage to da Vinci’s genius but also critiques modern interpretations that challenge religious narratives.
As the curtain falls on this captivating performance, audiences are treated to a powerful conclusion, where Jesus Christ and angels grace the stage, symbolically blessing the intricacies of faith and artistic expression. This theatrical venture exemplifies how art can transcend boundaries, offering a fresh perspective on age-old stories while igniting conversations about belief and creativity.
