Author – Tuly Roy
Performing arts are more than just a spectacle; they are living expressions of history, culture, and tradition. In this special guest post, Tuly Roy, a Professor of Cinematography, Independent Filmmaker, and enthusiast of Arts and Culture, takes us on an immersive journey into the mesmerizing worlds of Mohiniyattam and Kathakali.
From the anticipation behind the curtains to the rhythmic movements that captivate the audience, Tuly shares the emotions of the performance and a step-by-step breakdown of what makes this art form so unique. Whether you’re an avid traveler, a cultural enthusiast, or someone looking to understand the nuances of traditional performances, this guide will give you a deeper appreciation of the craft.
Let’s step into the world of Mohiniyattam and Kathakali through the eyes of someone who lived it.
Discovering Mohiniyattam and Kathakali: An Enchanting Blend of Grace, Drama, and Humor
Experiencing a dual performance of Mohiniyattam and Kathakali is like embarking on an enchanting voyage into Kerala’s rich cultural tapestry. The event I witnessed at Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre, Thekkady, was not merely a demonstration of artistic brilliance but also an interactive celebration that seamlessly intertwined classical sophistication with playful humor, captivating the audience and inducing fits of laughter.
The Prelude: Mohiniyattam and National Pride
The evening opened with a heartfelt rendition of Mohiniyattam, accompanied by the inspiring notes of Vande Mataram. The dancer’s graceful, circular movements, paired with her gentle expressions and complex hand gestures (mudras ), created an enchanting ambiance. The refined lasya style of Mohiniyattam—characterized by its gentle body movements and intricate footwork—beautifully embodied themes of devotion and grace, honoring the homeland.
A Divine Blend: Merging Mohiniyattam and Kathakali
Next came a distinctive fusion of Mohiniyattam and Kathakali, narrating the whimsical tale of Lord Krishna playfully taking the gopis’ clothes. The Mohiniyattam performer captured the gopis’ shy yet mischievous nature through her soft gestures and subtle eye movements, illustrating their playful embarrassment. In contrast, the Kathakali artist, portraying Krishna, infused the performance with vibrant energy, employing bold facial expressions, commanding hand movements, and dynamic footwork. This harmonious combination of Mohiniyattam’s delicate femininity and Kathakali’s striking drama offered a captivating and lively spectacle.
Kathakali: The Essence of Mythology
Following this was a stunning solo Kathakali performance depicting Hanuman’s meeting with Sita in the Ashok Vatika, as told in the Ramayana. The dancer’s striking makeup—featuring vivid red and green tones—along with elaborate costumes and expressive movements, brought this mythic narrative to life. The powerful tandava gestures—which embodied masculine energy—coupled with intense eye expressions illustrated Hanuman’s unwavering devotion and strength. The pulsating rhythms of the chenda drum elevated the dramatic storytelling, allowing the audience to feel the emotional weight of the epic.
Humor and Audience Engagement: The Joy of Kathakali
The closing act was an unexpected delight, showcasing Kathakali’s interactive spirit. A volunteer from the audience was invited on stage, engaging in an improvised “dialogue” using only facial expressions and hand signals. Initially hesitant, the participant soon embraced the interaction, responding with exaggerated gestures and facial expressions. What unfolded was a comedic skit centered on the theme of Swachh Bharat (Clean India). Through playful gestures and mimed storytelling, the Kathakali dancer humorously addressed the challenges of keeping public spaces clean, while the audience member’s clumsy yet enthusiastic contributions added a comic twist. The performer’s theatrical eye rolls, animated hand movements, and cheeky smiles had the entire auditorium erupting with laughter, culminating in a rousing round of applause as the lines between performer and audience joyfully blurred—a hallmark of folk performance traditions.
Uniting Classical and Folk Art Forms
This collaborative performance wonderfully showcased the diverse nature of Kerala’s classical arts. Mohiniyattam retained its graceful elegance and spiritual essence, while Kathakali revealed its theatrical richness and engaging character. The comedic segment highlighted Kathakali’s deep roots in folk traditions, where audience involvement and improvisational play are integral.
By harmonizing classical sophistication with spontaneous humor, the performance captured the essence of Kerala’s artistic legacy—anchored in tradition yet vibrant with improvisation and communal participation. This delightful interplay of grace and strength, elegance and joy made a lasting impact, demonstrating that the spirit of Kerala’s art is as dynamic as its culture.
Article & Image Credit @Tuly Roy (copyrighted; DO NOT COPY)
