The Vivid Spectacle of Kerala
Kathakali
Where gods and demons come to life through extraordinary makeup and the silent language of the eyes.
Origins & Lore
The Total Art Form
Kathakali, which literally means "Story-Play," originated in the 17th century in the backwaters of Kerala. It is considered a Sampoorna Kala (Total Art Form) because it seamlessly blends five distinct fine arts: Literature, Music, Painting (makeup), Acting, and Dance. Unlike other forms that emphasize grace, Kathakali is inherently masculine, powerful, and larger-than-life, designed to portray the colossal struggles between the gods and the Asuras (demons).
Visual Artistry
Vesham: The Five Types of Makeup
The makeup in Kathakali is a complex symbolic code that tells the audience a character's nature before they even move. There are five main types: Pacha (Green) for noble kings and gods like Rama or Krishna; Kathi (Knife) for arrogant characters like Ravana; Chuvanna Thadi (Red Beard) for demonic villains; Karuppu Thadi (Black Beard) for forest dwellers; and Minukku (Polished) for female characters and sages. The makeup is made from natural pigments and rice paste, and the process takes upwards of four hours.
Technique
Navarasas and the Ocular Language
A Kathakali actor does not speak; the story is narrated by the singers while the dancer uses Mudras (24 primary hand gestures) and Navarasas (nine facial expressions) to portray the dialogue. A significant part of the training is devoted to Kannu Sadhakam (eye exercises). Actors can move their eyes with incredible speed and precision to depict emotions like Shringara (love), Raudra (anger), or Bhayanaka (fear) using only the whites of their eyes and their brows.
Visitor Guide
Experiencing the Drama
Best Places to Watch
Kerala Kalamandalam is the premier university. Fort Kochi offers daily performances specifically for visitors to see the makeup ritual.
The Music
Performed to Sopanam Sangeetham, a rhythmic style unique to Kerala temples. The Chenda and Maddalam drums provide the thunderous pulse.
Traditional Lighting
Traditionally performed by the flicker of a single Kalivilakku (oil lamp). The shadows cast by the lamp add to the mystical, otherworldly atmosphere.
Training Period
It takes a minimum of 8 to 10 years of rigorous physical training and massage therapy to master the flexibility required for Kathakali.
Satyam Shivam Sundaram
Through the masks of the actors, we glimpse the eternal battle between dharma and adharma, leading us toward ultimate truth.