Kerala Dances
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.
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··» Kerala Dances Kathakali Koothu Chavittunatakom Oppana Valakkali Mohiniyattam Paana Kolkkali Thiruathirakkali Tholppavakoothu
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