Keraleeyam Day 5
KERALEEYAM: DAY 5 – A GLIMPSE INTO KERALA’S RICH HERITAGE
By WILLIAMSJI MAVELI
Kerala is currently hosting a week-long celebration that shines a spotlight on its traditional arts, cultural heritage, and economic potential, all on a global stage. The focus of this event is firmly on sustainability and the preservation of aesthetics. The picturesque state of Kerala, situated in India, boasts a deep-rooted tradition of arts and cultural forms, which have been the very backbone of its heritage. It’s challenging to envision Kerala without the profound influence of these art forms.
One such captivating art form is Mohiniyattam, which is a visual feast, offering everything one could desire from an art form. Performed as a solo dance, Mohiniyattam embodies grace and is a classic representation of Kerala’s artistic tradition. In the realm of Indian classical dance, Mohiniyattam holds a significant position as one of the eight traditional Indian classical dances. Recognized by the Sangeet Natak Academy as a profoundly meaningful art form, Mohiniyattam garners international acclaim, attracting hundreds of foreign women who come to Kerala each year to learn and perform this exquisite dance. Kerala Kalamandalam plays a pivotal role in promoting Mohiniyattam, and temple and school festivals within Kerala provide ample opportunities for showcasing this unique solo recital by women.
Kerala is indeed a land of art and festivals, offering a diverse range of entertainment to people from all around the world. Among the many art forms and festivals, Kathakali stands out as a visual masterpiece. This art form employs mudras, intricate hand gestures and expressions, which, when understood, enhance the enjoyment of Kathakali performances. Kathakali draws its characters and narratives from the rich puranas and myths of Hindu culture. In the past, Kathakali was a regional art form, but it has since transcended its boundaries to captivate audiences globally.
A remarkable and vibrant ritual and art form in North Kerala is “Theyyam.” These rituals are a riot of colors and have an irresistible allure for all who witness them. The region of North Malabar in Kerala hosts numerous types of Theyyams, which can be considered visual manifestations of divine entities. The names of various Theyyams are fascinating, such as Pottan Theyyam and Kandanarkelan Theyyam, among others. North Malabar’s Theyyam rituals have earned global recognition, making it an integral part of the region’s cultural tapestry. It’s nearly impossible to imagine North Malabar without these colorful temple rituals.
Kerala’s local kings have been patrons of Kathakali, reveling in its artistic grandeur. Originally performed over a period of three days, Kathakali’s performances are now condensed into a more accessible five-hour format. Kathakali continues to captivate audiences, and its journey has led it to temple venues, where its artistic glory is vividly showcased. A visionary figure from Kerala’s past, Late M.K.K Nair, made substantial contributions to the promotion of Kathakali in the region. His legacy lives on through the Kalamandalam, an academy dedicated to teaching Kathakali, located near the Bharatha River in Cheruthuruthy. The renowned poet of Kerala, Late Vallathole Narayana Menon, and Late M.K.K Nair were instrumental in the establishment of Kalamandalam. Kerala boasts a roster of accomplished masters (acharyas) who have been part of the faculty at Kalamandalam, nurturing and preserving the rich tradition of this captivating art form. – WILLIAMSJI MAVELI
