Folk Dances of Kerala

Folk Dances of Kerala:-

Dance and Art Forms are integral parts of a region’s culture. ‘God’s Own Country’ Kerala boasts of its several forms of dances and art. Some of the folk dances which are native to the state have gained popularity. They are performed during temple festivals and other ceremonious occasions. These folk dances are unique in their presentation and involve perfect expressions performed by very fine class of dancers. In Kerala, the folk dances are accompanied by splendid costumes and ornaments perfectly adorning the performers. There are nearly 50 dance forms performed in Kerala, out of which prominent ones are Thiruvathirakali, Theyyam, Koodiyattam, Chakyar Koothu and Ottamthullal. Kerala is renowned for its two indigenous forms of classical dances ‘Kathakali’ and ‘Mohiniyattam’.

Kaduva Kali:
This dance is also known as Pulikali. This dance is performed during the Moharam season. Dancers get ready to look up as tigers with wearing appropriate costumes & make-up. They go from house to house, dancing vigorously with the loud beating of instruments like Udukku, Thakal, etc.

Kanniyar Kali:
It is a very old dance, performed from centuries. But today also, it is a well-known folk dance of Kerala sometimes even called as Desathukali. It is a fast moving, militant dance having pleasant rhythmic devotional folk songs and asuravadyas. It is said to be a ritual offering in honour of the deity Bhagavathy.
Margam Kali:
Margam Kali is an art form popular among the Syrian Christian community of the eastern Travancore. Among the Performing Arts of Christians, Margam Kali deserves special mention. This dance consists of several other group dances and martial arts like parichamuttu Kali. The theme of the songs revolves around the life of St. Thomas & his contribution.

The word `Margam` means path, way, religion or creed. The real source of inspiration behind performance of Margam Kali was Kalaripayattu, which was very popular when the Christian community had developed the form.

The art was developed for the propagation of Christian religious ideas among the people. From the direct inspiration taken from the indigenous culture, the form is evolved. The dancers play in a circle around a lighted oil lamp while singing themselves. There are no accompanying instruments for music. The leader of the troupe or tutor known as `Asan` leads the song and the group repeats the same. The language used in the songs of Margam Kali reveals its relation with old Tamil form.

Kummatti Dance:
Kummatti is a mask dance mostly popular in South Malabar region of Kerala. The dancers wear brightly painted wooden masks on the faces and dance with it. During the time of Onam festival, groups of dancers wearing masks and adorning their body with the help of leaves and grass get ready for the dance. They visit to all houses in a village one by one. Vibrating the string of a bow-like instrument called onavillu provides the rhythm & music for the songs.

Tholpavakoothu:
This is also known as Pavakoothu and Nizhalkoothu. It is prevalent in Palakkad and Ponnani Talukas of Kerala. This is traditionally, a dance by Pulavanmars. The pavakal or puppets are used for the performance. They are made up of deerskin and represent various characters from the Ramayana epic. The puppets are arranged behind a long curtain. These types of dances are popular in all sections of Society.

Garudan thookam:
This dance form is presented in some temples, where the worshiped deity is Bhadrakali. This is not just an offering song to deity but a descriptive song in terms of its action. Two or three dancers in the garb of Garuda, dance of the rhythm of percussion instruments, for providing music. To give the feel of Garuda (the bird king), the dancers wear the feathers with their beaks. They also carry snakes in the beak, and dance with wings spread in circles, in an enjoyment of moment.

Kazhai Kothu:
Kazhai Kothu is a known performance for gymnastic steps. It is specialized form by Aryans. This is very similar to today`s circus show. They travel in a group from place to place, entertaining the local people and thus earning a livelihood. During performance time, they do make-up & wear bright, colourful costumes.

Mayil Attam:
Girls dressed to look like peacocks, resplendent with peacock feathers and a glittering headdress with a beak perform this dance. This beak can be opened and closed with the help of a thread tied to it from inside the dress. This arrangement helps in performing various stps.This is a group dance & when performed in coordination grabs the attention of viewers.

Sangha Kali:
Sangha Kali is also known as Sahastrakali, Chathirakali or Vatrakali. Essentially, it is a dance having a socio-religious context. This was a very favourite and popular pastime of Namboodiris. It was performed as a votive offering to Goddess Kali. The origin of Sangha Kali may be deeply rooted in the numerous gymnasium techniques (Known as Kalaris) in ancient Kerala where physical exercises and military training with special emphasis on physical feats and swordsmanship were given.

Celebrations on periodic basis were held in this Kalaris, where special displays of skill in weapons and the techniques of the learner can be put foreword. With the civilization and stabilization of Aryan culture in the land, the Namboodiri Brahmins-the Aryan immigrants-entered these gymnasia and their participation and influence gave the celebration a religious colour.

A number of people wearing red scarfs on the head and red clothe on the wrist gather in a group for dance. The performance begins with steps of the gymnasia to the accompaniment of the instrument like the chenda, maddalam, elethalam and gong.

The dance has a number of phases of ritual worship, recital of devotional songs, pure dance, comic interludes, etc. They include the kottichakampookal, kottiyarkal, pana, velichappadu, nalupadam, slokam, neetuvayana, kandappanpurappad, poli kaimalothika samvadam, paradesipurappad etc.

The last phase of the dance performance is a very important and it is called Kudameduppu. It is martial in character and actually in the form of exercise displaying the skill in swordsmanship and the mastery of techniques in the use of other weapons. Of the dance part in Sangha Kali, the Kurathiyattam is the most graceful and famous step of this dance.

Krishnanattom:
It is said that a refinement of Ashtapadiatoom, evolved by Manavedan, the Zamorin was Krishnanattom. The whole story of Lord Krishna was cast into a drama-cycle. Eight nights are required for its serial production. Vilwamangalam, a Krishna devotee, helped in designing the costume of Krishna. The actors in this dance-drama have to have good command on the ballet element and mimetic expression. The narrative song is a responsibility of the musicians. It is dance-drama totally devoted to Lord Krishna.
Poikkal Kudirai Aattam:
This is known as the Dummy Horse Dance. In this dance, the dancer bears the dummy figure of a horse`s body on his/her hips. It is made up of Light-weighted materials and the cloth at the sides swinging on both sides covering the legs of the dancer completely. The dancer performs with wooden legs, which Sound like the hooves of the horse.

The dancers must have either a sword or a whip. This folk dance needs much expert movements and skills to perform. Naiyandi melam or Band music accompanies to the dance. This is connected to the worship of Ayyanar, prevails mainly around Thanjavur region of State. Such dances are originated from tribal culture.,

Kerala is a state in India that is known for its rich culture and heritage. One of the most important aspects of Kerala culture is its folk dances. Folk dances are a way for people to express themselves and their culture, and they are often performed at festivals and other special occasions.

There are many different types of folk dances in Kerala, each with its own unique style and history. Some of the most popular folk dances include Aravanamuttu, Chakyar Koothu, Chendamelam, Kolkali, Kalaripayattu, Mudiyettu, Theyyam, Thirayattam, Thullal, and Yakshagana/”>Yakshagana.

Aravanamuttu is a dance that is performed by men who wear masks and costumes. The dancers move in a rhythmic way to the sound of drums and cymbals. Aravanamuttu is often performed at temples and other religious ceremonies.

Chakyar Koothu is a dance-drama that is performed by men who wear masks and costumes. The dancers tell stories from Hindu mythology and folklore. Chakyar Koothu is often performed at temples and other religious ceremonies.

Chendamelam is a dance that is performed by Women. The dancers wear colorful costumes and move their hands and arms in a graceful way. Chendamelam is often performed at weddings and other social occasions.

Kolkali is a dance that is performed by men. The dancers hold sticks in their hands and move them in a rhythmic way to the sound of drums. Kolkali is often performed at festivals and other special occasions.

Kalaripayattu is a martial art that is also considered to be a folk dance. The dancers perform acrobatic feats and use weapons such as swords and shields. Kalaripayattu is often performed at temples and other religious ceremonies.

Mudiyettu is a dance that is performed by men who wear masks and costumes. The dancers tell stories from Hindu mythology and folklore. Mudiyettu is often performed at temples and other religious ceremonies.

Theyyam is a dance that is performed by men who wear masks and costumes. The dancers represent different gods and goddesses. Theyyam is often performed at temples and other religious ceremonies.

Thirayattam is a dance that is performed by men who wear masks and costumes. The dancers tell stories from Hindu mythology and folklore. Thirayattam is often performed at temples and other religious ceremonies.

Thullal is a dance that is performed by women. The dancers wear colorful costumes and move their hands and arms in a graceful way. Thullal is often performed at weddings and other social occasions.

Yakshagana is a dance-drama that is performed by men and women. The dancers wear masks and costumes and tell stories from Hindu mythology and folklore. Yakshagana is often performed at temples and other religious ceremonies.

These are just a few of the many different types of folk dances that are performed in Kerala. Each dance has its own unique style and history, and they all play an important role in Kerala culture.

What are the different types of folk dances in Kerala?

There are many different types of folk dances in Kerala, each with its own unique style and history. Some of the most popular folk dances include:

Theyyam: A ritual dance performed by men in elaborate costumes and masks.
Kathakali: A classical dance-drama that tells stories from Hindu mythology.
Mohiniyattam: A graceful dance performed by women that is said to be a celebration of love.
Ottam Thullal: A lively dance performed by men and women that is often accompanied by music and singing.
Kalaripayattu: A martial art that is also considered a form of dance.

What are the origins of folk dances in Kerala?

The origins of folk dances in Kerala are lost in history, but it is believed that they date back to the ancient period. Folk dances were originally performed as part of religious ceremonies and festivals, but they have since evolved into a popular form of entertainment.

What are the costumes and props used in folk dances in Kerala?

The costumes and props used in folk dances in Kerala vary depending on the type of dance. However, some common Elements include elaborate costumes, masks, and Musical instruments.

What are the steps and movements involved in folk dances in Kerala?

The steps and movements involved in folk dances in Kerala vary depending on the type of dance. However, some common elements include intricate footwork, hand gestures, and facial expressions.

What are the social and cultural significance of folk dances in Kerala?

Folk dances in Kerala play an important role in the social and cultural life of the state. They are a way for people to express their joy, sorrow, and emotions. Folk dances are also a way for people to connect with their culture and heritage.

What are the challenges facing folk dances in Kerala?

One of the biggest challenges facing folk dances in Kerala is the lack of interest from young people. Many young people are more interested in Western forms of dance, such as hip-hop and ballet. This is leading to a decline in the popularity of folk dances.

Another challenge facing folk dances in Kerala is the lack of government support. The government does not provide enough funding for folk dance troupes, which makes it difficult for them to survive.

What are the efforts being made to preserve folk dances in Kerala?

There are a number of efforts being made to preserve folk dances in Kerala. Some of these efforts include:

Establishing folk dance schools: There are a number of folk dance schools in Kerala that are dedicated to teaching the art of folk dance to young people.
Organizing folk dance festivals: There are a number of folk dance festivals held in Kerala each year. These festivals provide a platform for folk dance troupes to showcase their skills.
Documenting folk dances: There are a number of efforts underway to document folk dances in Kerala. This documentation will help to preserve the dances for future generations.

What is the future of folk dances in Kerala?

The future of folk dances in Kerala is uncertain. However, there are a number of reasons to be optimistic about the future of these dances. The government has recently shown an increased interest in supporting folk dances. There is also a growing interest in folk dances among young people. If these trends continue, then the future of folk dances in Kerala looks bright.

Sure, here are some MCQs about folk dances of Kerala:

Which of the following is not a folk dance of Kerala?
(A) Theyyam
(B) Kathakali
(C) Mohiniyattam
(D) Kalaripayattu
Which of the following is the most popular folk dance of Kerala?
(A) Theyyam
(B) Kathakali
(C) Mohiniyattam
(D) Kalaripayattu
Theyyam is a dance performed by men who are possessed by spirits. True or False?
Kathakali is a dance-drama that tells stories from Hindu mythology. True or False?
Mohiniyattam is a dance that is performed by women to express the beauty and grace of a woman. True or False?
Kalaripayattu is a martial art that is practiced in Kerala. True or False?
Which of the following is not a characteristic of Theyyam?
(A) The dancers wear elaborate costumes and masks.
(B) The dancers are possessed by spirits.
(C) The dancers perform in front of a temple.
(D) The dancers perform to the accompaniment of music and drums.
Which of the following is not a characteristic of Kathakali?
(A) The dancers wear elaborate costumes and makeup.
(B) The dancers use facial expressions and body language to tell stories.
(C) The dancers perform to the accompaniment of music and drums.
(D) The dancers are always male.
Which of the following is not a characteristic of Mohiniyattam?
(A) The dancers wear elaborate costumes and jewelry.
(B) The dancers perform graceful movements to the accompaniment of music.
(C) The dancers often portray the character of a beautiful woman.
(D) The dancers are always female.
Which of the following is not a characteristic of Kalaripayattu?
(A) It is a martial art.
(B) It is practiced in Kerala.
(C) It is a form of dance.
(D) It is a form of combat.

I hope these questions were helpful!