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KATHAKALI |
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domain of Kathakali is peopled by super-humans, Gods,
demons & animals who are presented in a larger than
life format. What strikes the spectator first & most
is the splendour of the costumes, ornaments & facial
make-up which transform the actor-dancer into a type
rather than a particular character. A character can be
identified by the colour he sports. Symbolic masks of
many hued rice paste are painted onto each face, light
green for the valour, poise & virtue of heroes.
Scarlet symbols on green for lust & greed The head
dress is a towering pagoda like crown with an enormous
jewelled halo. The full sleeved jackets are adorned with
ornaments. A many layered skirt of white cloth completes
the fantastic ensemble. The dance is accompanied by the
drums & chanting by the singer. It takes years for a
novice to graduate into an actor. Seven years of
full-time practice under a meticulous teacher is the
minimum called for. But to make an accomplished actor
able to portray versatality, it takes many more years. |
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