Major Dances of Kerala

Kerala, also called God’s own country, is well-known for its rich culture and heritage. One of the ways the locals foster their culture is through dance. With Carnatic and classical music, the dance forms of Kerala never fail to fascinate anyone.

Almost 50 different dance forms are performed in Kerala. Both women and men either perform these dance forms together or individually. Most traditional dance forms of Kerala are simple, but they involve many expressions. 

Another popular fact about Kerala is it has two indigenous classical dances, namely, Kathakali and Mohiniyattam.

Different Forms of Dance

There are almost 50 different dance forms actively performed in Kerala. We have picked and listed some famous ones among them. Each dance form portrays different human emotions. Now, let’s get started.  

Kathakali

Kathakali is a 500-year old classical dance form of Kerala. In Malayalam, Kathakali means ‘story play’.  It is performed by men portraying the characters from the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Puranas. 

This dance form involves unique movements, powerful mudras, fabulous costumes, and unique expressions representing human emotions. A traditional drum is played and is accompanied by one or two singers narrating a story.

Mohiniyattam 

Mohiniyattam is one of the most ancient dance forms of Kerala. It means maiden’s dance in Malayalam. Mohiniyattam is a blend of Kathakali and Bharatanatyam and is exclusively performed only by women, solo or in a group.

The performing woman gets dressed in dazzling costumes in white and gold and elegant jewellery. The dancer also traditionally decorates her head with a jasmine garland. 

This dance involves classical Carnatic vocal music, and the dancer amazes the audience with her elegant dance movements and captivating expressions.

Theyyam

Most of Kerala’s dance forms evolved from temple rituals. Theyyam is a dance form that is one of the ritual types practised in north Kerala. 

Males mainly perform this Dravidian art form except for Devakoothu Theyyam, a Theyam ritual performed by women. 

Thirvathirakali

Thiruvathirakali, also known as Kaikottikali, is another popular traditional dance form in Kerala. 

You will find a group of women in a circle, rhythmically dancing to a Thiruvanthira song’s tune by clapping hands and singing. 

It is performed during the harvest festival Onam from December to January. 

Kolkali

Kolkali is a dance form popular among the farming community in the north Malabar region. The Kolkali songs depict the tales of regional Gods.

This dance form entails 24 people performing Kolkali using two-foot-long wooden sticks. The dancers dance in circles tapping their wooden sticks against each other. 

Ottamthullal

Originating in the 18th century, Ottamthullal, also known as Ottamthullal, is another famous dance form in Kerala. 

Kalakkaththu Kunchan Nambiar, a famous Malayalam poet, created this famous dance form in Kerala. The dancers wear vibrant costumes and make-up. They perform with hand and eye movements, forming expressions that help narrate a story of our Indian mythology.

Kalaripayattu

Kalaripayattu is a unique and traditional dance form of Kerala that includes martial arts. Ancient warriors practised this dance form to learn self-defence. Being one of the oldest surviving Indian martial arts, it involves some powerful activities like running, jumping, and somersaults. 

Padayani

Like Kaikottikali and Thirayattam dance forms, Padayani is Kerala’s traditional folk dance. In the Bhagavati temple, this ritual dance is performed in honour of the goddess Bhadrakali.  

The dancers wear heavy face masks along with make-up and conduct religious rituals and rites.

Oppana

This dance form is performed in wedding ceremonies and festivals in Kerala’s Muslim community, particularly in the Malabar region. 

This dance is performed by the bride’s female relatives who dance by singing and clapping hands around the bride. 

Margamkali 

Margamkali is one of the most ancient traditional dance forms of Kerala. It is performed only by the Syrian Christians who live in Kerala. This dance form involves a group of 12 women dancing in circles with a lighted oil lamp at the centre. 

Like Oppana, this dance is also performed at festivals and wedding ceremonies. 

Koodiyattam

Koodiyattam, which means acting together in Malayalam, is a popular temple dance form. This dance form is presented as a drama enacted by men and women. 

Interestingly, the male performers are from the Chakkiyar community, whereas the females are from the Nangiyar community. It is performed inside a temple for 6 to 20 days. The Sanskrit verses recited with a musical background grab much attention

Chakyar Koothu

This is an orthodox dance form created by the early Aryans. We can find this dance form performed at temples by the Chakyar caste people. Like Kathakali, this dance form also depicts stories from ancient scriptures. The dancers narrate the story through various facial expressions and gestures.  

Conclusion

Kerala has more than 50 different dance forms that provide enlightenment and entertainment for both its natives and visitors. These dance forms are nothing but art that combines culture, tradition, religion, and creativity. The dancers wear appealing costumes and ornaments that enhance the overall charm of the dance forms.  

Apart from incredible landscapes and beautiful water bodies, dance forms are crucial in popularising the state. Also, this is why Kerala stays one of the top destinations in India throughout the year.