Kerala’s Cultural Tapestry: Exploring the Rich Heritage of Traditional Folk Dances

ॐ श्री गुरुभ्यो नमः ॐ श्री शिवानन्दाय नमः ॐ श्री चिदानन्दाय नमः ॐ श्री दुर्गायै नमः 

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There are more than fifty well-known folk dances in Kerala.

Of these dances the Kaliyattom, Mudiettu, Kolan Thullal, Kolkali, Poorakkali, Velakali, Kampadavukali, Kanniyarkali, Kerala Parichmuttukali, Thappukali, Kuravarkali and Thiruvathirakali are the most popular ones.

The culture of a place can be known from its art and dance forms. Dances are considered as integral parts of the culture of any region.

Kerala which is situated in the southern part of India and is popularly known as ‘God’s Own Country’ has several dance forms.

Among the many folk dances, some are native and have gained recognition only within the state whereas some have gained popularity worldwide.

Many of these dances are performed at the time of temple festivals and occasions.

These forms of dances are unique in their way of presentation with wonderful expressions, which are performed by finest dancers of the region.

The performers are adorned with attractive costumes and ornaments that add charm to the dance.

Of the 50 dance-forms of Kerala, the most prominent ones are Theyyam, Thiruvathirakali, Chakyar Koothu Koodiyattam, and Ottamthullal.

Kerala is very well-known and popular for its two classical dance-forms  ‘Kathakali’ and ‘Mohiniyattam,’ which lure tourists from around the globe. 

Kathakali :

Kathakali is an impressive form of classical dance that originated more than 500 years ago in the state of Kerala.

Kathakali is a perfect combination of dance, drama, music and religious theme. Kathakali is considered one of the world’s oldest forms of theatre.

In the local language Malayalam, Kathakali means Story-Play, Katha means Story’ and Kali means Play.

It will not be wrong to say that Kerala and Kathakali can be identified by each other’s name. 

Kathakali has been acknowledged throughout the world for its uniqueness. This dance form is generally performed by men.

This classical dance form is usually performed on the grounds of temple. Kathakali involves colorful costumes and detailed makeup. The costume is very typical that includes a headgear, swirled skirt and junk ornaments.

Being dressed typically, the artists play the mythological characters from the Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. The artists through their elegant body movements depict a scene from mythological stories.

A typical Kathakali Performance includes graceful movements of hands, legs and eyes. Props are also used in this dance, wherever necessary. 

A traditional drum, known as Chenda is played to accompany by one or two singers. These singers describe the story in their song.

Mohiniyattam :

A famous and sensual classical dance form of Kerala called Mohiniyattam involves graceful movements.

This classical dance is performed by solo woman dancer, as the name itself says, Mohini means ‘a maiden’ and Yattam means ‘dance’.

Mohiniyattam is a blend of Bharatanatyam and Kathakali, as it uses the elements of these dances. 

This dance is very elegant as it has gentle and graceful movements along with mesmerizing eye movements.

Mohiniyattam originated in the 16th century CE. Mohiniyattam has been recognized as one among the eight Indian classical dances by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

It is believed that the Vaishnava devotees named this dance as ‘Mohiniattam’, which was earlier performed by Devadasis. According to legends, Lord Vishnu in disguise of a Mohini enthralled people.

Mohiniyattam involves delicate footsteps, classical Carnatic vocal music, mesmerizing expressions and sober costumes in white and gold.

The dancer adorns her head by putting jasmine garland in a traditional way. Mohiniyattam is therefore, considered as an enchanting dance or the dance of enchantress.

Thirvathirakali :

It is a popular group dance performed during the harvest festival of Kerala, Onam. This dance is performed by women folk, moving in a circular movement, rhythmically at the Thiruvathira songs’ tune.

Kolkali :

It is performed by a group of 24 dancers from agrarian classes. This dance form is highly rhythmic. Wooden sticks are used as props by the dancers. They beat these sticks, while moving in a circular motion.

Ottamthullal :

This dance form was originated in the 18^th century and has become a popular dance form of Kerala. It is said that famous Malayalam poet, Kalakkaththu Kunchan Nambiar created this dance form. 

Ottamthullal is a group dance performed wearing make-up and vibrant costumes. A dancer narrates a story based on mythology.

Koodiyattam :

Koodiyattam is a popular traditional dance form of Kerala. This dance form was being performed in the temples for centuries.

The musical instruments involved in Koodiyattam are Kuzhitalam, Mizhavu, Sankhu and Kurumkuzhal.

Chakyar Koothu

It is a highly refined ancient dance form of Kerala. The dancer narrates scenes from Hindu epics such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.

During festivals and occasions, this dance is performed in the temples.

Theyyam :

A popular dance form of the Malabar region of Kerala is called Theyyam. Theyyam and its rituals have been in practice for thousands of years in this region.

It is very popular as the lower caste people have access to it. It is a Dravidian art form and sacred ritual dance to worship Goddess Kaali. 

The word ‘Theyyam’ is said to be the corrupted form of ‘Daivam’, the Malayalam word, which means God.

A trip to Kerala will help us explore and experience these unique dance-forms that reflect the vibrant culture of the state.

A cultural tour of Kerala is a must to get an ultimate experience of these and many more such regional art-forms and unforgettable memories to treasure.