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Kerala is a beautiful travel destination. The state in southern India attracts travellers from the world over to explore its many attractions, ranging from pristine beaches to luxurious Ayurvedic spas. The region is gifted with abundant natural beauty. Travellers can explore hill stations, rivers, backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries, lakes and so much more. However, what truly makes a journey to Kerala exciting is the many art forms that are cultural representations of the region.
The vivid art forms of Kerala are often performed during the festive seasons. Temple fairs and festivals prompt a colourful display of performances ranging from dances to theater across the various parts of Kerala. Each region has its own art form, and though they might sport similarities, each of them provide unique experiences that are ought to be seen. Here are some of the art forms of Kerala, maybe you should add some of these to the list of things to do the next time you visit Kerala.
Kathakali
The vibrant dance art form of Kathakali has received global recognition.
Photo Courtesy: Qnonsense
Chakyar Koothu
The performance of Chakyar Koothu in progress.
Photo Courtesy: Aruna
Nangiar Koothu
An age-old Sanskrit form of drama.
Photo Courtesy: Ranjithsiji
Mohiniyattam
The mesmerising and graceful art form of Mohiniyattam.
Photo Courtesy: Annie Dalbera
Theyyam
The exotic performance of Theyyam.
Photo Courtesy: Bobinson K B
Padayani
Festivities of the night.
Photo Courtesy: Govindan
Theeyatu
The passionate play of fire.
Photo Courtesy: Bobinson KB
Koodiyattam
A unique theater art form recognised by the UNESCO.
Photo Courtesy: Sajiraju
Panchavadyam
The crescendo of festival music.
Photo Courtesy: Challiyil Eswaramangalat
Thullal
An art form involving dance and music with its origins in Natya Shastra.
Photo Courtesy: Bobinson K B
Tholpavakoothu
Puppetry and light show.
Photo Courtesy: P Das Arayil
Ottamthullal
Vivid sights and sounds at an Ottamthullal performance.
Photo Courtesy: Sai K shanmugam
Mudiyett
Tribal art forms.
Photo Courtesy: Bobinson K B
Kummattikali
Among the performance done at the time of Onam.
Photo Courtesy: Aruna Radhakrishnan
Kalaripayattu
Ancient martial arts form that originated in Kerala.
Photo Courtesy: Isabell Schulz
Sopanam
The classical song and music performance of Sopanam.
Photo Courtesy: Fotokannan
Poothan and Thira
The passionate and loud performance of Poothan and Thira.
Photo Courtesy: Sooraj Kenoth
Yakshagana
More theater than dance, the art form of Yakshagana.
Photo Courtesy: Gnanapiti
Pavakathakali
Traditional show of Pavakathakali, art form with hand puppets.
Photo Courtesy: Annie Dalbera
Koodiyattam
The progress of Koodiyattam performance and the character of Hanuman.
Photo Courtesy: Aruna Radhakrishnan
