Traditional classical dance forms that originated in Kerala

Kerala, the land of art and festival, is renowned for its traditional arts and cultural forms. The beautiful state, besides being a natural abode, is full of myriad communities contributing towards the state’s diversity in the form of arts. A number of famous and globally acknowledged dance forms originated in Kerala.

Let’s find out some of the most popular traditional art forms of Kerala.

Another famous classical dance form that originated in Kerala is Mohiniyattam. The dance is mostly performed by women as a solo performance. It is one form of dance that requires extensive training. Mohini is a Hindi word, which means the female avatar of Vishnu.

This one is another popular ritual dance art form, performed mostly in north Kerala in the Malabar region. The dance is performed mainly by males, except the Devakoothu theyyam, which is the only Theyyam ritual performed by women.

Kathakali or Kathak is one of the most prominent classical dance forms in India that originated during the 17th century. Every performance narrates a story, but the most distinguished part of this form is the elaborate colorful make-up, heavy costumes and face masks that male dancers wear.

Ottan Thullal or Ottamthullal is basically a recite-and-dance form that originated in the 18th century. The beautiful folk dance was introduced in the state by Kunchan Nambiar, a prominent Malayalam language poet. The dance performance incorporates elaborate green-coloured makeup and an equally vibrant costume.

This is a traditional folk dance of Kerala, which is performed in Bhagavati temples. Being a ceremonial and ritual dance, this involves heavy face masks, make-up, acting and training in martial arts too! The dance is performed in honor of Bhadrakali.