Kathakali is one of the most popular form of art that had been in practice from the ancient period, The Kathakali also known as the story play has been a part of the Kesala tradition for many years now. It is actually a symbol of the Kerala culture. At present almost every temple festival in Kerala conducts Katahkali in accordance with the customs and rituals. Earlier, kings commonly hosted Kathakali performances in their courtrooms as a form of recreation and entertainment, which later gained popularity among the high class of society. Stories from the Hindu mythology acts as the backdrop for each and every Kathakali act. The stories inspired from the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharath are mainly in use.
The Elements and Significance of Kathakali
Kathakali is a group art. In this act, various artists undertake many character roles, with male artists performing both male and female characters. Facial expressions plays a pivotal role in the act of Kathakali. There are so many named expressions that are a part of this stage drama. A musical background is also a part. Some of the instruments used in Kathakali are chenda thabala, mridangham, oodakkuzhal etc Normally the permorming artists and the percussionists are of the same group practising and performing together. There are so many local terms in relation with Kathakali and each one of them represents a particular thing or a process.
The term Minukku is a part of this act. The literal meaning of minukku is shining. Artists paint the face of the female character with yellow, and they highlight the eyes and eyebrows with red colors. Unlike male characters, they do not use a headgear; instead, they use a cloth-made tuft called ‘Kanda’ and cover the back portion of the head with a silk veil.
The Unique Costumes of Kathakali
Actors wear jackets with breastplates and adorn themselves with ornaments, including bangles, anklets, and earrings. Actors create the costume’s unique style by wearing a long white cloth around the waist, with one end hanging in front, a style known as ‘Uduthukettu. The performers pass the other end from the front through the thighs, allowing easy and free limb movement. An artificial hair wig, called ‘Chamaram,’ is tied at the back and flows down the actor’s back. Actors dress all female characters, such as queens, goddesses, and noblewomen, in a similar fashion.
This one deals with the character of “Sita’. This particular character revolves around the story that Sita sends her two sons into the forest. The performers enact the succeeding sequences with perfection and quality. Each and every play ends with a lot of memories in our heart. Once we get a chance to witness a play it is pretty much sure that it stays there for the rest of your life.
Copyrights: All the photos and text in this post are copyright of Lizza Abraham, Pathanamthitta and Creative Hut Institute of Photography and Film. Their reproduction, full or part, is forbidden without the explicit approval of rightful owners.
