Kathakali
The refined, scientific and elaborately defined dance form of Kerala, Kathakali, had its origin in the courts of Kerala kings. A highly synthetic art form combining in it self the rudiments of its earlier forms like Krisnnanattam and Ramanattam in addition to highly scientific dance-drama form, quite novel, but highly classical.
The Attakkathas (the verse text for Kathakali) are selected from epics and Puranas and written in a highly sanskritised Malayalam verse. The actor doesn't speak but expresses himself through highly complicated and scientifically ordained 'Mudras' and steps in accordance with the text being sung from the side of the stage.
Kathakali
