Kathakali Dance Theatre: A Visual Narrative Of Sacred Indian Mime
KK Gopalakrishnan has recently released a captivating book titled “Kathakali Dance Theatre: A Visual Narrative of Sacred Indian Mime.”
- The book offers a behind-the-scenes look into the world of Kathakali, focusing on the green room, artists’ struggles, and the unique bonds forged during long make-up hours.
- Kathakali emerged in the 17th century in the kingdom of Travancore.
- The art form was initially performed in temple precincts and later gained popularity in the royal courts.
- Kathakali is based on Natya Shastra, the ancient treatise on dance, written by Sage Bharata.
- It relies on Hasthalakshana Deepika, another classical text for its hand gestures.
- It was in peril and on the verge of extinction in the beginning of 20th century.
- Renowned Poet Vallaththol Narayana Menon and Manakkulam Mukunda Raja took the initiative to set up Kerala Kalamandalam, a centre of excellence for classical art forms for the revival of kathakali.
- Kathakali combines elements of dance, music, mime, and drama.
- The movements are highly stylized and include intricate footwork, rhythmic swaying, and various hand gestures called mudras.
- The dancers use their facial expressions, known as rasas, to convey emotions and tell stories.
- Manipravalam, a blend of Malayalam and Sanskrit, is the language used in Kathakali songs.
- The text of Kathakali songs is known as Attakkatha.
- Chenda, Maddalam, Chengila and Elaththalam are the major instruments used with Kathakali music.
