Kathakali is one of the oldest theatre forms in India . It is a spectacular combination of drama, dance, music and ritual. Characters with vividly painted faces and elaborate costumes re-enact stories from the Hindu epics The Mahabharatha and the Ramayana.
The classical elements of this art form comprise Natya (enactment-histronics), Nritha (Pure Dance), Nrithya(the element of dance with emphasis on expressions of emotions). Geetha (song, vocal) and Vadya (accompanying instruments) supplement these elements to perfection to yield a complete theatrical art form. Kathakali is better appreciated and understood with an understanding of Mudras - gestures of hands. The actors in a sense, translates background music into dance and drama.
Kathakali elaborate its make-up code. This determines the colours used in the make-up. The faces of noble male characters, such as virtuous kings, the divine hero Rama are predominantly green. Characters of high birth who have an evil streak, such as the demon king Ravana, are allotted a similar green make-up, slashed with red marks on the cheeks. Extremely angry or excessively evil characters wear predominantly red make-up and a flowing red beard. Forest dwellers such as hunters are represented with a predominantly black make-up base. Women and ascetics have lustrous, yellowish faces. |
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The technique of Kathakali includes a highly developed language of gesture, through which the artist can convey whole sentences and stories. The body movements and footwork are very rigorous. To attain the high degree of flexibility and muscle control required.
The dancers wear large headdresses, and the contours of the face are extended with molded lime. The extraordinary costumes and make-up serve to raise the participants above the level of mere mortals, so that they may transport the audience to a world of wonders.
The orchestra of a Kathakali performance includes two drums known as the chenda and the maddalam, along with cymbals and another percussion instrument, the ela taalam. Normally, two singers provide the vocal accompaniment. The style of singing particular to Kathakali is called Sopaanam. The orchestra of a Kathakali troupe is unique and provides not only the background to the dancing, but also serves as a highly expressive special effects team.
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| Krishna in Duryodhana vadham performed at Manila in 1979 |
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