Tag: Kathakali

Koothu is a socio-religious art performed in the Koothambalam or the Koothuthara of temples, either independently or as part of Kutiyattam. It is a solo narrative performance interspersed with mime and comic interludes. The Chakkiar does the role of ‘Vidushaka’or the wise jester. Through his inimitable narration of stories from the epics (The Ramayana and The Mahabharatha), the Chakkiar satirises the manners and customs of the time. No one is above the butt of his ridicule. His wit ranges from innocent mockery to veiled innuendoes, barbed pun and pungent invectives. Koothu is intermittently accompanied by the percussion instrument Mizhavu. One of the most revered places for the traditional art ... Read more

Most say history favors the victor at all times, but at the Poruvazhi Malanada Temple in Adoor, one sees the absolute opposite come to life and the antagonist is revered. Duryodhana, considered a villain in the Indian epic Mahabharata, is the mythical figure worshipped in this Temple, which also stands out for the absence of an idol or a sanctum sanctorum. Annually in March, the Temple premises come to life during its vibrant temple festival, the highlight of which is the spectacular Malanada Kettukazcha event. Also known by the name Poruvizhi Peruviruthi Malanada Malakkuda Utsavam, up to 70 to 80 ... Read more

Kerala finds a place in the 19 places shortlisted by CNN this year for travel enthusiasts to visit in 2019. “This area of India has it all: sun, sea, sand, good food, houseboats, culture and wildlife. Its spectacular natural landscapes — think palm trees and sprawling backwaters — lend the region the nickname “God’s Own Country,” the report says. The report also talks about the devastating floods in August 2018, “Severe floods during the summer of 2018 wreaked havoc across this southwestern state, but many of its top tourist destinations escaped unscathed.” The Cochin International Airport and its solar panels are ... Read more

Terminal 2 of the Cochin International Airport has undergone a face-lift recently. The terminal, which was renovated with around Rs 240 crore, now boasts of state-of-the-art facilities along with traditional Kerala architecture. ‘Kerala Art Arcade’ installed near the security check area in level 2 has become the main center of attraction in the airport. The terminal is set up on the theme of ‘Ettukettu’ – a traditional style house in Kerala – and the art arcade is designed with a ‘nadumittam’ (center courtyard) with a ‘Koothambalam’ replica and mural paintings. It also displays the state’s traditional dance forms which include ... Read more