Into 19th century, Kathakali already had already matured as an art form. Plays abounded and often focused on developing specific situations in a plot rather than an entire narrative with emphasis on a single bhava or rasa. Both Lavanasuravadham and Kuchelavrutham are classic examples of this trend. Both plays while holding integral narratives have highly emotional encounters as their focal points.
Bhakti (devotion) is the central theme of Kuchelavrutham penned by Muringoor Sankaran Potti. Kuchela, a poor Brahmin is in penury and sets out to meet his childhood friend Krishna and seek his help. The poor, timid Kuchela is completely overwhelmed by the boundless affection that Krishna showers on him during their emotional meeting. A well known and popular play, Kuchelavrutham is often more liked for its beautiful music than its theatrical content.
