India, Kerala - Kathakali Dancers

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Traveling offers much in terms of widening our knowledge and outlook of life. I love traveling primarily because it offers endless opportunities to immerse myself in different cultures, languages, experiences, cuisines, histories, geographies and the list goes on.......

My first encounter with the art of Kathakali was in 2016 when I visited India for the first time. Kathakali is one of the major classical Indian dance forms. It is primarily developed from and practiced in the state of Kerala of India.

Kathakali's development can be traced back to as early as the 17th century. It is derived from the words "Katha" and "Kali" which mean "story" and "performance" respectively. Like all classical Indian dances, Kathakali involves lots of music and vocal performances. Body movements such as hand and facial gestures as well as footwork of the dancers are also key performances aspects of Kathakali.

The dance is usually and traditionally performed by an all-male cast. The elaborate and colourful makeups of the artistes/dancers are amazing and was what first attracted my attention to this classical Indian dance form.

I attended a Kathakali dance performance during my trip to Thiruvananthapuram  and was won over by its artistry. I would strongly encouraged fellow travelers who are visiting the south-western region of India to make an effort to attend a Kathakali performance. Like me, you will be impressed with this traditional Indian dance form.

Kathakali dancer, male form, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India (2016)

Kathakali dancer, female form, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India (2016)

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