Kathakali Art form of Kerala (Part - I) (DVD)

Kathakali, the traditional art form of Kerala, is traced in seven episodes. Kathak is story and kali is play. Through make-up rather than mask the facial expressions are enhanced instead of being covered or concealed. The film traces the masters of the tradition of yesteryears. It shows how a disciple gives dakshina to get initiated into Guru-shishya parampara during the rainy season. It highlights the dynamic exercises, control breath and Ayurvedic oil massages for stimulating the body. It moves through the five salutations, Namaskaara Panchakam, exercises like Ketti Chaatham, Chauvarinmal Oonni Amaral, Thancham Vechu, Chavitti Thaazhuka etc. These exercises enhance flexibility and stamina and are harnessed to the dance sequence Kaal Maatam – the basic repertoire of postures of Kathakali. The film traces seven Churuku or exercises that help coordinate eye, hand and body movements. It highlights the anti clockwise eye movements and facial exercises before taking a close look at the 24 hand gestures traced from Hastha Lakshana Deepika. The film then shifts to the actual performance of Dakshayajanam and traces two primary languages of communication in Kathakali, drumming sound and mudra. The film highlights the rasas to depict the eight major expressions (bhavas), which are interlinked and spring from one another.

Other highlights are the evolution of Abhinaya Sangeetham, with special focus on Jajamaneeya system. The detailed concepts of make up application are addressed before finally showcasing the enactment of Ravana and Mandodari; Bali Sugriva and white beard Hanuman-Vella Thaddi.