Adukku Pathakkm

The Adukku Pathakkam is a distinctive layered necklace in Tamil jewellery tradition, known for its stacked arrangement of pendants that gradually increase in size from top to bottom. Made mostly in gold and featuring a variety of motif patterns, floral designs, and temple-inspired elements, it reflects both artistic beauty and deep cultural meaning. The use of this ornament can be traced back to the Nayaka period, where many sculptures clearly depict its form and structure. In the collage mentioned here, the sculpture of Manikavasagar from Avudayar Kovil in Pudukottai district shows a detailed and well-defined example of the Adukku Pathakkam. The continuity of this ornament can still be seen today in Tamil Nadu folk arts, temple traditions, and ceremonial jewellery. Beyond Tamil Nadu, similar forms of this pattern are found among the Sinhalese communities of Sri Lanka, showing that the influence of the Kandy Nayaks remains strong and uninterrupted in their cultural practices. Traditionally worn by brides, dancers, and theatre artists, the Adukku Pathakkam represents prosperity, continuity, and the layered blessings of family heritage. Passed down as an heirloom across generations, it remains one of the most iconic ornamental styles in both South India and Sri Lanka, blending craftsmanship with timeless symbolism.

In the Therukoothu tradition of Tamil Nadu, the Adukku Padakam plays an important role as a symbolic and visually striking ornament that enhances the presence of characters on stage. Unlike the polished gold versions seen in classical jewellery, the Therukoothu Adukku Padakam was originally made from lightweight wood and later crafted using shiny fabric materials that reflect the glow of lanterns during night performances. Its tiered and layered structure adds grandeur and helps the audience identify royal, divine, or heroic characters such as kings and warriors. The multiple layers move rhythmically as the performer dances or gestures, adding to the dramatic energy of the performance. More than just decoration, the Adukku Padakam acts as a visual language within the folk theatre tradition, helping convey status, character traits, and narrative depth to the audience.

--Ramu. Rm N