Kathakali

What is Kathakali?

Kathakali is a classical dance-drama from Kerala, India, known for its striking costumes, towering headgear, and vividly painted faces. It is performed mostly by men, who use stylized movements, hand gestures, and facial expressions to tell stories from Hindu epics and legends. The performance combines dance, acting, and music, with actors often enacting gods, demons, and heroes. The stage is usually simple, with a large oil lamp at its center, and the performance can last all night.

Where does Kathakali come from?

Kathakali took shape in Kerala in the 16th and 17th centuries, drawing on older temple and folk arts like Krishnanattam and Koodiyattam. Its roots go back at least 500 years, with influences from ancient Sanskrit theatre and local martial arts. Unlike earlier forms where dancers also sang, Kathakali separated the roles of dancer and vocalist, allowing for more elaborate choreography and storytelling. Over time, it developed a standardized style and costume, making it easier for audiences to follow.

How is Kathakali danced?

Kathakali uses a blend of dance, mime, and drama. Dancers maintain a strong, upright posture, with precise footwork and exaggerated hand gestures (mudras) to convey meaning. Facial expressions are highly stylized, following the navarasas or nine emotions described in ancient texts. Movements are often inspired by martial arts, and the ensemble works together to enact battles, journeys, and emotional scenes. The choreography allows for improvisation within a set structure.

The music of Kathakali

Music in Kathakali is performed by vocalists and percussionists, who remain on stage. The verses are sung in Sanskritized Malayalam, following the structure of the Attakatha plays. The music guides the tempo and mood of the performance, supporting the dancers' gestures and expressions. Traditionally, the only light comes from a large oil lamp, adding to the atmosphere.

Costume and what is carried

Kathakali costumes are among the most elaborate in Indian dance. Dancers wear large headgear, layered vests, and skirts, along with intricate face paint that signals the character's nature—green for noble heroes, red and black for villains, yellow for women and monks. The makeup, called Chutti, is applied in layers and can take hours. Some roles use masks or false beards, and the colors and styles follow a strict code.

When and where Kathakali is danced

Kathakali is performed at temple festivals, religious occasions, and special events, often starting at dusk and continuing through the night. Traditionally, performances took place in temple courtyards or special theatres, with audiences gathering to watch the stories unfold. While men have historically performed all roles, women have joined modern troupes. Training is rigorous and passed down through dedicated schools and teachers.

Styles of Kathakali

Kathakali has absorbed elements from various local and ritual arts, and its plays have expanded from Hindu epics to include modern stories and even Western plays. Some performances now feature women and shorter formats. Regional styles and schools may differ in makeup, costume, and choreography, but the core elements remain consistent.

What Kathakali means

Kathakali is a symbol of Kerala's cultural identity and is recognized as one of India's eight classical dance forms. Its elaborate visual style and storytelling have drawn interest from audiences of all ages. Though rooted in Hindu tradition, it has adapted to new themes and audiences, and continues to be taught and performed in Kerala and beyond.

Questions people ask about Kathakali

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• The woman’s role in KathakaliThe Hindu, Article
• Kathakali makes Christian debutDeccan Herald, Article

• Kathakali on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos and video on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data
• Videos of Kathakali on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by Ghungroo