ART FORMS OF KERALA

Kerala, God's Own Country attracts a lot of tourists every year with its natural beauty and its rich cultural heritage as well, which always fascinated the world. All these art forms are performed during some celebration or festivity. The rich cultural heritage of Kerala portrays various art forms which are performed with the accompaniment of vocal and instruments music. Though most of these art forms are generally performed during festivals and celebrations, special shows are also performed for the convenience of tourists.

Koodiyattam

Koodiyattam

Koodiyattam, the classical Sanskrit drama performed in Kerala, has been recognized by UNESCO as a Human Heritage Art. The word "Koodiyattam" literally means "acting together". It is the oldest existing classical theatre art form in the entire world, having originated much before Kathakali and most other theatrical forms in India. Koodiyattam has an attested history of a thousand years in Kerala, but its origin and evolution are shrouded in mystery. Koodiyattam is an amalgam of the classical Sanskrit theatre of ancient India and the regional theatre of Kerala.

Kathakali

Kathakali is the most renowned art form of Kerala. The 300 year old classical dance drama holds a special place as an icon of Kerala's rich cultural heritage. Based on the guidelines written in the ancient text on dances- Natya Sastra, Kathakali is celebrated for it's deep aesthetic nuances, intricate performance techniques, elaborate costumes and clearly defined training and presentation patterns. The performers do not speak or sing but enact the story through hand gestures, body movements and facial expressions especially of the eyes in the backdrop of vocal and instrumental music.

Kathakali
Mohiniyattam

Mohiniyattam

This is a distinctive classical solo dance art form of Kerala. The word Mohiniattam literary means "Dance of the enchantress". Slow, graceful, swaying movements of the body and limbs are unique to this dance form. This art form has the blend of the grace of Bharata Natyam with the strength and force of kathakali. The costume for this dance is the traditional white mundu and melmundu of Kerala. In this dance the hairs gathered up at one side of the head and adorned with jasmine flowers in the traditional style.

Ottamthullal

Thullal is another art form Kerala with its distinct simplicity of presentation and its frank, outspoken wit and humour. The songs are in simple Malayalam and the techniques employed are not rigid. The performer will have the freedom to tease even the audience during his performance. Though Thullal is based on the classical principles of Naatya Saastra, it is said to have been a modification of Koothu-an old classical art form of Kerala. It organized by Kunjan Nambiar, a veritable genius and one of the foremost poets of Kerala. Three forms of Thullal are there such as Ottan Thullal, Seethankan Thullal & Parayan Thullal.

Ottamthullal
Krishnaattam

Krishnattam

Krishnanaattam is another art form of Kerala. It takes its origin from Krishna Geethi, initially composed by the Prince Manavedan (1595-1658) of Samuthiri Kovilakam and a contemporary of Vilwamangalam II. He described the story of Krishna in a theatrical presentation with great importance on music. Staging of Krishnanaattam is an important offering in the Sree Krishna temple, Guruvayur. It is also believed that Kathakali conceived from Krishnanaattam the dance drama on the life and activities of Lord Krishna created by the Zamorin of Calicut.

Velakali

Several art practices have originated not solely for entertainment or worship, but to promote military activities and martial skills, aiming to embed these practices in the younger generation. Travancore, or South Kerala, takes great pride in the martial art practice of Velakali. The visual of a Velakali performer has become an iconic symbol of the rich and strong warrior tradition of Travancore. Velakali, performed by Nair men (the traditional warrior community), signifies the Nair army of Travancore.

Velakali
Theyyam

Theyyam

Theyyam is a vibrant Hindu ritual worship prevalent in North Kerala, particularly in the Kolathunadu area. This performance involves strict preparation known as Vrutham, including fasting, prayers, and meditation. Theyyam performers hold a respected position in their communities, and the elaborate costumes, including headgear (Mudi) and face masks, vary according to the character. The use of natural colors and extensive fire displays further enhance the dramatic appeal of Theyyam.

Margamkali

Margamkali is an ancient group dance form practiced by the Saint Thomas Christians of Kerala. Although its exact origins are difficult to trace, it has been performed since before the arrival of Portuguese missionaries. The dance symbolizes the propagation of Christian values and is performed mainly by men during festive occasions, especially weddings, with 12 members dancing around a lighted oil lamp, symbolizing Christ and his disciples.

Margamkali
Oppana

Oppana

Oppana is a colorful wedding dance popular among the Muslim community in northern Kerala, particularly in Kannur, Kozhikode, and Malappuram. The term "Oppana" is believed to derive from the Arabic word "Afna." This dance features women performing around a bride seated on a high platform, clapping rhythmically to music, with the possibility of male performers joining on certain occasions.

Kalaripayattu

Kalaripayattu is the traditional martial art form and healing methodology of Kerala dating back to 6th century. Through a traditional system of bodily and mental development, this art seeks to cultivate not only a powerful physical warrior but more importantly, a person of deep inner self-knowledge and humility. This involves extremely energetic techniques of defence and attack. Kalaripayattu considered as one of the oldest and most scientific martial art form in the world. 'Kalari' is the place where boys and girls trained under a trainer respectfully called the 'Gurukkal'.

Kalaripayattu
Padayani

Padayani

Padayani is a ritual art form related to the godess temples in the central Kerala. Performed at night in the temple premises, the rituals of Padayani are a symbolic act for pleasing the Godess Bhadrakali whose fury remains unabated even after her victory over the mythical demon, Darikan. The duration of the festivals varies from seven to 28 days according to the number of villages participating and organising it. Padayani performance astonishes the audience with its splendid theatrical values. The performers wear colourful masks and spectacular head gears called Kolams which represent various Gods and Godesses.

Pulikali

Pulikali is also known as Kaduvakali, is a 200 year old art, is a colorful recreational folk art from of Kerala. Literal meaning of Pulikali/kaduvakali is the "play of the tigers" hence the performance revolve around the theme of tiger hunting. The folk art mainly practiced in Thrissur (Trichur) and Palghat districts of Kerala. Best place to watch the show is Swaraj Ground at Thrissur on the fourth day of Onam, where Pulikali troupes from all over the district assemble to display their skills. Men numbering three or more wear the masks of tiger, paint their bodies in yellow and black stripes and dance to the sound of udukku and thakil.

Pulikali
Chakyarkoothu

Chakyarkoothu

Chakyarkoothu is an ancient classical theatre art form of Kerala, performed in temples with accompaniment by mizhavu and elathalam percussion instruments. This solo dance primarily features refined monologues drawn from Indian epics and Puranas, expressed through dance movements and gestures. Known for its humor, Chakyarkoothu features colorful costumes and unique headgear that enhance the dramatic presentation.

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