Kerala Art & Culture

Spectacular visual effects and stunning musicare hallmarks of Kerala's performing
arts. In a land which cannot boast of monumental architectural feats, unlike
many other parts of India, the performing arts, both individually and collectively,
make up for the lost magnificence. No other State in India can match the
grandeur and creativity of Kerala's performing arts. The classical and ritual
arts of Kerala have always enjoyed a rich patronage, from the former kings
who ruled the state to the latter day democratic governments.
Kerala's unique selling point is its richculture which was mellowed by centuries-old
rich heritage. Culture and heritage are pervasive presence across the state
and are kept alive through the state's performing arts.
Performing arts, a slice of culture
Kerala’s performingarts are feast to the eyes of tourists. A
sheer variety of art forms, when performed by consummate artistes with the
requisite paraphernalia make watching them worth. Legendsand legendary characters
resurrect from the dog-eared pages of history books and make their apparitions
on the stages leaving the audience in ecstasy.

The attire, roves and facialexpressions of the artistes are a sumptuous
treat for eyes. Centuries down, Kerala’s performing arts had enjoyed the
patronage and pats from successive rulers. Besides, the now defunct feudal
system had also contributed for the nourishment of art and culture. The
Northern region of the state is a repertoire of arts and culture.
Many of these performing artsare enmeshed with the cultural history of religious
communities. While classical art forms such as Kathalkali and Bharathayatyam
were the stronghold of upper class, those from lower strata of the society
performed dance forms such as theyyam and padayani. If the former class
performed in the temple premises and specially erected stages, the later
had to venture on streets to show their artistic prowess.
Besides, the aborigines of the statehave their own art forms. Cherumarkali,
a harvest dance is one among them. Dancers, men and women, with hands entwined,
waltz rhythmically to the drumbeats. They will send you into trance. Rapturous
moments for audience. Dainty world of performing arts. Engrossing ensemble
of dance and folk arts.

Flamboyant cultural procession isan integral part of any festival here.
In temple fests, deities adorned with glittering jewels and colorful garlands
are shouldered in the procession to the accompaniment of chanting of hymns,
blowing of conches and playing of nadswaram.
Thrissur Pooram, the spectacleof splendour, is the greatest cultural extravaganza
in Kerala. Celebrated on First May every year, this is also the stage for
the biggest show of pyrotechnics.
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