Folk Performing Arts
Kerala has a rich heritage in Traditional folk arts. The tribal people of Kerala (Adivasis) keep alive a folk tradition in the eco-friendly environment they live in and practice natural pharmacy. Kaliyattam, Mudiyettu, Kolamthullal, Kolkali, Poorakkali, Kampadavukali, Velakali, Kanniyarkali, Parichamuttukali, Moplakali, Thappukali, Kuravarkali, Kaikottikkali, Kummi etc are some of Kerala's folk art forms.
The 'Theyyam', a famous ritual art of Kerala, exists in a variety of forms. The brilliantly painted masks and headgears worn by the artists of 'Theyyam', 'Padayani' etc are fine examples of excellent craftsmanship.. The performing art forms of Kerala are part and parcel of the temple festivals occurring mainly in the months of January to May. Kerala, which is an unique pageant, with the famous pantomime dance drama, Kathakali, the sopana sangeetham, the contributions of Swathi Thirunal and Raja Ravi Varma in the fields of music and painting respectively enrich the cultural heritage of India.
Kathakali
