Kerala Music and Dance
by atelier PRO
Kerala, the land of natural bounties, is known worldwide for its rich cultural heritage. Classical dance in Kerala represents the diverse culture and traditions of the God’s Own Country. In a social context, dance in Kerala has been a part of ceremonies, rituals, celebrations, and entertainment. It serves as a medium of emotional expression, conveying various moods and feelings. These dances showcase the different religious and cultural traditions of Kerala. The various dance forms in Kerala can be categorized into three types: semi-classical dances, folk dances, and dance dramas. Some of the well-known classical dances of Kerala are:
Kathakali:
This is the most popular Kerala dance, famous worldwide for its combination of dance, music, and ritual. It is considered one of the oldest forms of theater globally, in which performers enact stories from the Indian Holy Scriptures, particularly the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Kathakali, derived from the Malayalam word, literally means ‘Story Play’. Kathakali actors tell stories and express their emotions through 24 primary mudras and other minor mudras. In this dance, performers wear elaborate costumes and have their faces intricately painted.
Mohiniattam:
This is one of the most lyrical classical dance forms of India. The term … ...Read the rest.
“Kerala Music and Dance”
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