Question

Which among the following is / are true regarding Kathakali?

1. The initial evolution of Kathakali into a dance-drama depended on close artistic collaboration between royal patrons and their Nayar soldiers-turned-performers

2. The first kathakali royal patrons were also authors of the first plays.

3. The predominant ‘green’ colour of the make-up reflects the character’s demonic nature.

4. Bhashanaishadham Champu is the first written Kathakali Text.

• A. Only 2 is true
• B. Only 1 and 2 are true
• C. Only 2 and 3 are true
• D. Only 2 and 4 are true

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Only 1 and 2 are true

Kathakali - A Classical Indian Dance-Drama

• Kathakali is a prominent classical Indian dance-drama that originated in the state of Kerala.
• It is known for its elaborate costumes, intricate makeup, and expressive gestures.

Historical Evolution and Patronage

• The evolution of Kathakali was significantly influenced by the artistic collaboration between royal patrons and performers, who were often Nayars.
• These royal patrons played a crucial role in fostering and developing Kathakali as a distinct art form.
• The early Kathakali patrons were also instrumental in authoring the initial plays, contributing to the repertoire of this dance-drama.

Character Portrayal through Makeup (Aharyabhinaya)

• Kathakali employs a unique system of makeup (known as Aharyabhinaya) to represent characters and their traits.
• While green makeup often signifies noble or divine characters, it does not predominantly reflect a demonic nature. Different colors and patterns of makeup are used to distinguish between various types of characters, such as Pacha (green for noble characters), Kathi (red and black for villains), Thadi (beards for hunters or forest dwellers), and Minukku (subdued colors for women and sages).

Early Kathakali Texts

• While Bhashanaishadham Champu is an important early work related to Kathakali, it is often debated whether it is the absolute first written text in the current form of Kathakali.
• The development of Kathakali involved several precursor forms and literary works, making the identification of a single 'first' text complex.