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 Mohiniattam literally means ‘Dance of the Enchantress’, in which a beautiful woman seduces others. The dance is known for the graceful movements of the upper body and legs, captivating the viewer’s attention for an extended time. The elegant movement of the body at a medium tempo creates an artistic impact that mesmerizes spectators. In this dance form, the eyes play a crucial role in conveying sensual emotions.
Theyyam:
Also known as Theyyattam or Thira, this is another popular folk dance of Kerala. This traditional dance form is mainly practiced in northern Kerala. The parody, music, dance, and fortune-telling are characteristic of this dance. Through dance, artists convey metaphysical ideas and the expression of immortal thoughts through a mortal body. This traditional dance is performed exclusively by male members of various caste groups. Theyyam is also known for its bizarre head dresses, costumes, and body paintings.
Traditional folk dance in Kerala is one of the prevalent aspects of Kerala Tourism, showcasing the state’s rich and preserved cultural traditions.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME
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