As a performing artist, on the request of my colleagues, I am presenting this post, for you all; hope you all will like.
Kathakali is one of the major Indian classical dances, with its origin from Kerala. In a typical classical performance, the team renders a Full Story, overnight! The performing artists include the Actors with elaborately colourful costumes (with facemasks), accompanied by Vocal & Instrumental artists.
This is one of the most popular Tourist Attraction, and the art is performed as, from 45 minutes to two & half hours performance, for the tourists (usually with detailed explanations).
In this series, I have tried to provide photos, with importance to the facial expressions, which can be easily understood, I hope. [The photos are from my collections & not shot by me – I could not locate mine, which will be published later. Another simplified form of this art, called ‘Ottamthullal’, will also be published, shortly].
Thank you for your great post! I have studied about Kathakali performances at university and I was fascinated by their colourful costumes and make-up. I have heard that sometimes their make-up takes about 5 hours to be ready.
So you are a performing artist? Are you performing Kathakali?
Thanks for a great review on Kathakali literally meaning Katha means Story and Kali means Play. Kathakali is a traditional dance form originated from Kerala and there were few great artists like Guru Chengannur Raman Pillai and Chenda Vidvan Warrier who is still remembered for their contributions.
I been to a Kathakali show last month at Mudra Cultural Centre, Kumily and few pictures are attached herewith.
Thank you for your great post! I have studied about Kathakali performances at university and I was fascinated by their colourful costumes and make-up. I have heard that sometimes their make-up takes about 5 hours to be ready.
In some complicated make-up cases, they even go more than 8 Hours (or even much more); It’s a different world, as you know.
So you are a performing artist? Are you performing Kathakali?
Appreciate your inquisitiveness:
My father was a Kathakali Artist. By Grace of God & blessings from my father & Gurus, I play Sitar & Thabala.
Thank you very much, dear @aaryesdee for your detailed reply. I am also thankful contributions of Kathakali photos - your gesture is highly appreciated, dear friend.
I’ve always been amazed by all kind of Indian dances, Bharat Natyam, Kathak, … etc. Kathakali, if I’m not mistaken tells the story of the Mahabharata using special gestures.
Next to Hindu temples, Kathakali is the second reason why I would like one day to visit Kerala.
Our dear @aaryesdee has already invited you; we will be your local guide - YOU are welcome. We have a premium 3 Bed Hose Boat, in Alleppey, Kerala - kindly accept, our humble invitation, to be our guest.
I haven’t seen Kathakali before, but it looks like it requires years of dedication and practice to learn it. Especially to master those facial expressions, which convey even the most subtle emotion. So beautiful!
By the way, who’s the author of the photos? You mentioned that they’re not yours.
