Art Forms of Kerala

Kerala, rich in its cultural heritage, has developed through the centuries its own typical art forms, particularly folk dances. Kerala, a southern state of India, has a very long history of culture and civilization. The historical records corroborate the fact that various art forms – classical, folk as well as tribal – had evolved in Kerala in very ancient period.

Kathakali

Kathakali is an ancient dance - drama of Kerala. It is so appealing due to the rare synthesis of dance, drama, music, acting, percussion, mythology, and culture. It is evolved from folk arts and other earlier classical dances of Kerala. The Kerala Kala Mandalam founded by poet Vallothol at Cheruthuruthi in1930 has played a vital role in revitalizing Kathakali.

Kooth

Kooth is performed by the members of the professional Chakyar caste and that too only in Koothambalam of temples. It is one of the oldest of theatrical arts not only of Kerala, but of India also. Koothu has come to be looked upon as the monoact par excellence in which a single actor, viz the Chakiar, acts the role of all the characters impressing his audience with suitable gestures.

Koodiyattam

Koodiyattam, one of the well known classical dance dramas,was originated 2000 years ago in Kerala. It is believed that the history of drama of Kerala began with Koodiyattam. It was performed in the Koothambalams of temples- the place of worship of Hindus. Koodiyattam is the earliest form of dramatic art in Kerala. In Koothu and Koodiyattam the actors enjoy freedom of speech and they criticise the important personages without fear or favour.

Ramanattom

Ramanatom is a dance drama based on the life of Rama who is considered as the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is performed as an eight - day cycle. It can be considered as the proto type of Kathakali in many aspects.

Mohiniyattom

Mohiniyattom, which is also known as “Kerala Nadanam”, is a unique dance form of recent origin. The influence of Kathakali and Bharata Natyam are very much evident in it. In the beginning, it was performed by women, but now it was performed by man also.