Kathakali dance
- Dazzling classical dance of Kerala is Kathakali.
- ‘Katha’= Story or tale, ‘Kali’= Performance and Art.
- Its roots are in ancient ‘Kutiyattam’ (Classical Sanskrit Dance Drama) and ‘Krishnattam’ (Dance-Drama depicting Stories of Hindu God Krishna).
- Movements in Kathakali are influenced by ancient martial arts and athletic tradition.
- It is basically a Dance-Drama.
- Kathakali was traditionally a male-dominated dance and now females are too welcomed in this dance form.
- Kathakali is also famous for its huge elaborate costumes, amazing make-up style, face masks, and ornaments.
- Unlike other Classical Dances, Kathakali art form developed in the courts and theatres of Hindu principalities.
- The traditional performances were used to be as long from Dusk to dawn. Modern day presentations are short as per the time limit of the program.
- The Kerala Kalamandalam is the main center for Kathakali Artists.
- Kathakali has similarities with other dance forms like that of the Japanese ‘ Noh’ and ‘Kabuki’ dance forms have similarities with Kathakali.
The main themes used in Kathakali
- Mythological themes include Ramayan, Mahabharat, Bhagvat Purana, etc.
- Also modern day Kathakali dancers present stories and plays of Shakespeare
The makeup for Kathakali
- According to the role of the dancer, his face is colored/painted.
- The colors are made in rice paste with vegetable colors and applied on the face.
- The Green for Noble characters.
- Tati (Red) for evil like Ravana.
- Kari (black) for hunters and monsters.
- Yellow for women etc.