Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 373

Mohiniyattam: This dance form is popular in Kerala. In the beginning
Mohniyattom performed usually in Temples, exclusively by ladies. It is a
very gra- ceful and elegant dance form which consists of mudras,
expressions and rhythmic steps. The lyrics and slokas were compared by
Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, Irayimman Tampi and such other great poets,
representing various types of emotions. Beautifully dressed Devadasi
girls devoted to the Lord used to perform this dance form in Temples. Now
of course it has became popular and is performed on the stage to the
accompaniment of drums, violin and other instruments. The music is in
the Sopanam style and the dancers are dressed in traditional white.
Bharata Muni’s mudras (hand gestures) and abhinaya are strictly followed.
Kanyar Kali: This is a very old art form permanent in Palakad District. It is a
combination of Temple ritual and entertainment. It is played in four parts
and lasts for four days. It is performed at night and continues till dawn.
Margom Kali: A ritual folk art of Syrian Christians, this is an allegorical
enactment with a lighted lamp (Nilavilakku) in the middle, representing
Jesus Christ and the dancers are His disciples. The dancers wear beautiful
white dhothi with special ornaments and the way of dressing is very
peculiar. The themes of songs which date back to a period much before
the Portuguese invasion are the life and death of St.Thomas, the apostle.
Mudiyettu: This ritual art is performed in Devi Temples of Central Kerala. It
represents the encounter between goddess Bhadrakali and the demon
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TRADITION AND DESTINATIONS|TRADITIONAL ARTFORMS