Kathakali
Kerala owes its transnational fame to the nearly 300-year-old classical
dance form of Kathakali, which combines facets of ballet, opera, masque
and pantomime. It is said to have evolved from other performing arts like
Kootiyattam and Ramanattam.
Kathakali explicates events and stories from the Indian Epics and 'Puranas',
ancient scriptures. Presented in the temple precincts after dusk falls,
Kathakali is heralded by the Kelikottu or the beating of drums in accompaniment
of the Chengila (gong).
The dancers adorn themselves with huge skirts and head-dress, wearing a
most intricate style of make-up. The richness of this riveting mix of colour,
expression, music, drama and dance is unparalleled in any other art form.
The dance form requires lengthy and rigorous training to attain complete
control of the body and a sensitivity to emotion so as to be able to render
all its nuances through facial expressions and hand gestures. Themes revolve
around the two great epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharatha.
Kathakali, Kerala Dances Reservation
Form