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The cultural richness of Kerala lies in its colorful dances and other performing arts. Kathakali, the most popular and rich dance form of Kerala is a 500 years old dance form and synthesizes all that is best in the fields of drama, music and dance. Other famous dance forms of Kerala are Mohiniyattam, Bharathanatyam and Chakyarkoothu.
Besides, there are various forms of folkdances that include Krishnattam, Koodiyattom, Kalaripayattu, Panchavadyam, Thiruvathirakali, Kaliyootu, Chavittunatakom, Kolkali, Thullal, Velkali, Kalampattu and Kakkarishi Natakom to name a few with.
Kathakali: Kathakali is one of the most ancient traditional art form of Kerala. The 'Mudras' (hand signs) and costumes of Kathakali performers are truly vivid and unique in itself. The main characteristics of this dance which is based on stories of the great epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata Kathakali is the facial expressions and hand gestures of the performer to express himself. Kathakali dance has emerged as an integral part of all temple and cultural festivals in Kerala.
Mohiniyattam: This dance form of Kerala is one of the most popular and enjoyed dances of south India. The classical solo dance performance of Mohiniyattam combines the gracefulness of Bharathanatyam with the dynamism of Kathakali, to create a sringara (erotic) mood in its spectators. The costume used for the performance is the traditional white mundu (sari) and melmundu of Kerala. The hair adorned with jasmine fragrance is put up at the shoulder by the side of the head.
Bharathanatyam: Believed to be India's oldest form of classical dance, Bharathanatyam dance form is referred to as poetry in motion. This dance form is mainly performed by women sometimes men being an exception. In the past it was famously known as 'Dasti Attam', a temple art performed by beautiful young girls called 'Devadasis'.
Chakyarkoothu: Also known as Koothu, this dance form is regarded as one of the oldest classical theatre arts of Kerala. A solo dance, Chakyarkoothu is generally performed in the koothambalam (temple theatre) of temples to the accompaniment of the mizhavu and elathalam (musical instruments). The narration involves dance movements, gestures and facial expression according to the guidelines in the Natya Shastra, a treatise on dances and drama. Koothu is distinct from other dances as it adds comic element in its dramatic character.
Besides, there are various forms of folkdances that include Krishnattam, Koodiyattom, Kalaripayattu, Panchavadyam, Thiruvathirakali, Kaliyootu, Chavittunatakom, Kolkali, Thullal, Velkali, Kalampattu and Kakkarishi Natakom to name a few with.
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