If nature exists, man survives; without it, he perishes.
Kathakali is a traditional dance-drama of Kerala known for its vibrant costumes and expressive storytelling.
This dance is based on religious, mythological, and historical tales from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas.
In Kathakali, 'katha' means story and 'kali' means performance, expressed through gestures and facial expressions instead of words.
Kathakali uses 24 mudras through facial and body movements to express the 9 rasas.
Kathakali originated in southern Kerala around the 17th century.
Kathakali was developed by King Kottarakkara Thampuran, a scholar and artist.
Kathakali was inspired by the earlier dance form Krishnanattam, created by the Zamorin king.
Earlier, Kathakali was performed solely as a religious ritual in Hindu temples.
Gradually, Kathakali evolved into a dramatic art form, using expressions, music, and mudras instead of dialogue.
Kathakali makeup uses colors like green for heroes and red for villains, with dark complexion and elaborate beards.
Kathakali artists wear grand, heavy costumes with a crown on the head and a colorful skirt.
Kathakali tells stories through acting, facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movements.
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