It is a typical solo dance performance that has themes from the puranas, which also relates to aspects of every day life, often satirizing the evils in societies. It owes its genesis to Kunchan Nambiar, an eminent poet of Kerala. In Ottan Thullal, the performer sings and dances to the sounding of the cymbals and beating of the drum, and acts the incidents narrated in the songs.

Kalamandalam Geethanandan,’ an ardent practitioner of the art form, and a master performer par excellence, diligently portrays the vivacious charm of Ottan Thullal. He is also a senior faculty member of Kerala Kalamandalam, a premier centre for performing arts in Kerala.