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 The vibrant history of Kerala has made it the home of art and culture. The performing art forms, an intrinsic part of the culture of Kerala, reflect the diversity of Kerala enmeshed with the cultural history of religious communities. Various old and unique art forms of dance, music, painting, handicrafts, sculpture and temple architecture can be tracked down in Kerala.
The Onam festival, the annual snake boat races at Alleppey, the temple festivals at Thrissur (Thrissur Pooram) and the festivals of Christmas and Id are some of the major cultural events of Kerala. Onam, Kerala’s most important harvest festival, is blended with facts and fables and celebrated throughout the state with enthusiasm. Dance, music and other folk arts are performed during the festival weeks.
There exists a myriad range of performing art forms in Kerala including Theyyam, Bharathayatyam, Mohiniyattam, Chaakyaar Koothu, Koodiyattam, Thiruvathirakali, Poorakkali, Chavittunatakam, Theyyam, Kolkali, Oppana, Krishnanttom, Duffmuttu, Kummatti, Maargamkali, Pulikali and Velakali – all dating back to centuries. In addition to dance forms, Kerala has its own martial art form – Kalaripayattu. It is a comprehensive system of martial arts originated in northern Kerala, which involves the energetic techniques of defense and attack.
The 300-year old classical dance form, Kathakali, portrays the stories and events from Indian mythology through highly evocative body language (facial expression and mudras) and vocal and instrumental music. The Kathakali performer wears elaborate costumes, ornaments and facial makeup.
Introduced by the well-known Malayalam poet Kunchan Nambiar in the 18th century, Ottan Thullal, one of the most colorful and spectacular classical art forms, is performed individually combining dance and recitation of stories. Themes based on mythological stories are described through expressive gestures. It is distinct from other art forms in its simplicity of presentation, humour and wit.
The performing art forms have a strong background in music. The classical and ritual art forms of Kerala are performed individually or collectively. Temples in Kerala are the center of artistic expression and related activities.
The art forms and cultural extravaganza of Kerala are one of the factors drawing in tourists. They offer a peep into the land of kings, knights and superstition that the state once was.
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