|
KATHAKALI
|
 |
History
This is a rich and flourishing form of dance witnessed in the picturesque state of kerala.
It was originated in the 17th century. Kathakali being just 300 years old, is a
relatively young dance form.
It is said to have evolved from other performing arts like "Kootiyattam" and
"Ramanattam". The first kathakali performance was a cycle of 8 stories based on
the Ramayana.
Characteristics
a. |
A
striking characteristic of kathakali is the elaborate use of facial make up, colourful
costumes and headgears. The prompt and magnificence of kathakali is party due to the
decor, part of which is the 'kireetam', the headgear or the oversized jacket and the
longskirt worn on a padding of cushions.
The costume is elaborate with lots of paint applied on the face of the artist. This is
done to completely negate the identity of the actor and to create a super human being
larger than life such as gods, demi - gods, king etc. |
b. |
Kathakali
explicates events and stories from the Indian epics and Puranas. It is usually presented
in the temple. |
c. |
This
form of dance requires lengthy and rigorous training to obtain complete body control. It
requires great sensitivity to emotions, so as to be able to render all its mances through
facial expressions and hand gestures. |
d. |
Another
striking feature is that the Kathakali actors do not speak. The actors through their
facial expression and their body language explain and enact a song. Usually the text which
is in the form of songs are sung by the vocalist. The vocal music is based on carnatic
system in order to evoke the appropriate moods and feeling. |
A kathakali actor conveys his ideas through mudras. A mudra is
a stylized gestural language used to depict an idea or a situation. There are 24 basic
"mudras" using one or both hands in addition to combinations of body postures
and facial expressions.
Training
This form of dance requires lengthy and vigorous training to attain complete control over
facial expressions and body movements. Students have to under go rigorous training with
oil massages and separate exercises of the eyes, lips, cheek and neck.
|
|
|
