Kathakali – A Classical Dance In India

Kathakali is an ancient and traditional dance form of Kerala. The word Kathakali literally means “Story-Play”. Kathakali uses elaborate make-ups, costumes and background. Kathakali was originated in the 17th century and has its roots in Hindu mythology. Kathakali has a unique combination of literature, music, painting, acting and dance. Kathakali is based on religious themes. They play is mostly based on the two epics ‘Ramayana’ and ‘Mahabharata.

Origin and History of Kathakali

Popular belief is that Kathakali is emerged from “Krishananattam”, the dance drama on the life and activities of Lord Krishna created by the Zamorin of Calicut. Once Kottarakkara Thampuran, the Raja of Kottarakkara who was attracted by Krishnanaattam requested the Zamorin for the loan of a troupe of performers. Due to the political rivalry between the two, Zamorin did not allow this.

So Kottarakkara Thampuran created another art form called Ramanattam which was later transformed into Aattakatha. Krishnanaattam was written in Sanskrit, and Raamanaattam was in Malayalam. By the end of 17th century, Attakatha was presented to the world with the title ‘Kathakali’.

Elements of Fine Art

Kathakali is a combination of five forms of fine art like :

1. Natyam (Acting or Expressions)
2. Nritham (Dance)
3. Nrithyam (Enactment)
4. Sangeetham (Music)
5. Vadyam (Instrument accompaniment)

Even though the lyrics/literature would qualify as another independent element called “Sahithyam”, it is considered as a component of Geetha, as it plays only a supplementary role to Nritham, Nrithyam and Natyam.

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Indian Valentines Day – is it Karva Chauth?

Indian Valentines Day,Karva Chauth -a primarily North Indian festival, wherein women fast for their spouses’ longevity, is considered a glamorous affair and the ultimate selfless, romantic gesture.Ironically, it is believed that a combination of a fast, prayers and the blessings of the lunar deity helps women to gain power to confront and prevent unfortunate events for their husbands.

A few decades ago, Karva Chauth was believed to be just a North Indian festival, but now, clever packaging by commercial forces has turned it into a desi version of ‘Valentine’s Day’ that is celebrated enthusiastically across India!

In the southern parts of the country, this festival is observed as ‘Karadaiyan Nonbu,’ but after five months.The festival, with its neo-traditional sheen, is popular among rural women too. Thanks to the popularity of Bollywood and TV serials in smaller towns.

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20 Amazing Superstitious Beliefs In Indian Culture

20 Amazing Superstitious Beliefs In Indian Culture

1. Cats Crossing Your Path

In ancient times, during night people used to travel through forests in bullock carts with a light of kerosene lantern. The carriage animals get past big cats like leopards, hyenas and jackals foxes. These animals have glowing eyes and scare the cows, horses or the bulls that pull the carts. That is why the travelling party halts nearby and help the animals refresh themselves before they pull the carts for the long journey ahead without any stress. Travelers shared their hard experiences and told other travelers not to proceed travel while the cats crossing the roads and in the course of time changing, the cat crossings got live and the people forget forest cats and took the domestic cats instead.

2. Hair Cut On Tuesday

In past days a large portion of the Indians were farmers. After a week of hard work, Monday was their resting day. Characteristically majority of them cleaned their homes and cut their hair on that day. So the Barber wouldn’t have much deal with Tuesdays and would close his shop. This practice is continued till date but the reason behind it is completely forgotten and lot misconceptions revolve around this.

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