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Jul 22, 2023 · Table of Contents. The History and Origins of Kathakali. Symbolism and Meaning Behind Kathakali Makeup. Traditional Costumes and Their Importance in Kathakali. Kathakali as a Form of Cultural Expression in India. Unveiling the Vibrant Tapestry of Indian Kathakali: A Celebration of Drama, Makeup, and Colorful Costumes.
- The Salient Features of Kathakali
- The Costumes of Kathakali
- Music and Instruments
- The Famous Exponents of Kathakali
Kathakali is a classical art form that has evolved from many socio-religious theatrical forms that existed in the ancient times.Chakyar Koothu, Koodiyattam, Krishnattam and Ramanattam art forms of Kerala and the martial arts that were prevalent in ancient Kerala exert a direct influence on Kathakali’s technique.The dance form can be seen in the temple sculptures of Kerala and the murals of the Mattancherry temple that belong to the 16th century.The plays are a blend of dance, music and acting with themes based on tra’, a text on the performing arts written by Bharata Muni. Indian epics like the Mahabharata, Bhagavata Purana and Ramayana.Kathakali incorporates the most intricate form of make-up, costume, face masks and brightly painted faces.Kathakali encompasses seven fundamental costume codes. The code followed typifies the characters of the acts as gods, goddesses, saints, animals, demons, and demonesses, etc.This classification reflects the three Gunas.Sattva (goodness, harmonious)Kathakali performance includes different instruments encompassing three drums namely ‘Itaykka’, ‘Centa’ and ‘Maddalam’.Music plays a major role in this art form creating tone variations corresponding to the mood of a particular scene.The music follows the Sopana Sangeetham tradition. Sopana Sangeetham is the singing of the Ashtapadis on the flight of steps leading to the sanctum sanctorum.Carnatic ragas are used in Kathakali music.Kavungal Chathunni Panicker is a veteran performer in this field with his family associated for six generations.Kalamandalam Gopi, has a career spanning over 30 years in Kathakali.Kottakkal Sivaraman portraying feminine characters emoting different nayika bhavas is a famed actor.Kalamandalam Ramankutty Nair is a seasoned Kathakali performer who earned fame for portraying negative roles.It is broadly considered that ‘Ramanattam’ that developed under the auspices of Thampuran was the genesis of ‘Kathakali’ and that Thampuran refined the former to give shape to ‘Kathakali’ which has over the centuries emerged as a famous classical dance of Kerala.
Aug 2, 2023 · Kathakali is known for its elaborate makeup, vibrant costumes, and dramatic storytelling, making it a unique and mesmerizing experience for both performers and audiences alike. Kathakali holds immense cultural significance in India, as it reflects the country’s deep-rooted traditions and mythology.
Meet the first all-women Kathakali troupe and explore the ancient art form. Originating from Kerala, learn about this culturally significant dance form. Watc...
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- National Geographic India
The credit for standardizing the customs and rituals in Kathakali goes mainly to Kaplingattu Namboodiri. Many of the rituals and procedure have obvious lineage to Koodiyattam. Props on stage: Although Kathakali is essentially "visionary" in nature and practically there is no "set" recreating the ambience, a few essential props are used.
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Ravishing costumes compliment the trained dancers as they tell powerful stories through the ancient dance form of Kathakali. For exploring more such age-old traditions, watch the new season of It...
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- National Geographic India
