Kathakali | 05 Jun 2023

Why in News?

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.

What is Kathakali?

• Origin and History:
  • Kathakali emerged in the 17^th century in the kingdom of Travancore (present-day Kerala).
    • 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.
    • However, Kathakali relies on Hasthalakshana Deepika, another classical text for its hand gestures.
  • Kathakali was in peril and on the verge of extinction in the beginning of 20^th 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.
• Dance and Music:
  • 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.
• Makeup:
  • Kathakali make-up is classified into five types according to the nature of the character.
    • Pacha (green): noble and heroic characters, such as gods, kings and sages.
    • Katti (knife): anti-heroes or villains with streaks of nobility or bravery
    • Thadi (beard): different types of beards denote different types of characters, such as:
      • Vella Thadi (white beard): divine or benevolent characters
      • Chuvanna Thadi (red beard): evil or demonic characters
      • Karutha Thadi (black beard): forest dwellers or hunters
    • Kari (black): characters who are evil, cruel or grotesque, such as demons or witches.
    • Minukku (radiant): characters who are gentle, virtuous or refined, such as women, sages or Brahmins.
  • The costumes are colourful and extravagant, with heavy jewellery and headdresses.
• Recent Developments:
  • Inclusion of Women: Traditionally performed by male actors only, Kathakali has gradually opened up to female performers who have trained in this art form and taken up various roles.
  • Innovation in Themes: Apart from the classical stories from Hindu epics and Puranas, Kathakali has also explored new themes from other sources such as Shakespearean plays, social issues, historical events and contemporary topics.
• Relevance of Kathakali in Today's Audience:
  • Kathakali, being a complex art form, requires the audience to familiarise themselves with its gestural language, make-up codes, and stories to fully appreciate its depth.
  • Furthermore, the introduction of modern technology, such as microphones and improved acoustics, has contributed to the renaissance of Kathakali music and its popularity.

Source: TH