Traditional Arts of Kerala

If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow their vision wherever it takes them.

- Deepa K. Ghadi

South India is known for its traditional arts and culture. Kerala is known for its diversified forms of performing arts and is also referred to as the land of festivals. Performing arts has its special connection between the people and its culture. Whether the art is performed on stage or at a roadside, it has its very own significance. What steals the limelight is the artist with their expressions and make-up that gives ‘life’ to the performance. Here are some of the traditional and classical art forms of Kerala which will mesmerise you with their electrifying art and performance: Mohiniyattam, Kathakali, Theeyaattam, Kummattkkali, Pulikali, and Kalaripayattu.

Theeyaattam

Theeyattam or Theeyattu is an ancient and multi-hued cult in which the beginning is untraceable in the pages of history. A traditional ritual in dance form, theeyattam is performed by the members of Theeyaattunni or Thiyaadi Nambiar community of Kerala. The dance usually commences at night and is performed by a male theeyattunni.

Bhadrakali theeyattu is performed mostly in the South and central districts of Kerala, including Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Ernakulam.

Pulikali