Shri A Harinarayanan
Kathakali, a highly stylized classical dance-drama is considered to have originated around the mid-seventeenth century. The King of Kottarakkara originally composed 8 plays from the epic Ramayana and called it Ramanattam. There is not sufficient information regarding the visual rendering of this art form. It is assumed that the king may have been inspired by the aesthetics and stage craft of Kutiyattam and also the indigenous folk arts and rituals that prevailed during his times, to create a unique, visually appealing art form Kathakali.Years later, another King, King of Kottayam, with the practical guidance of great Gurus of Natya and Nritha (acting and dancing) brought about significant changes to Kathakali. Since the 17th century, when this art form was conceived in its primordial form, Kathakali has undergone dramatic changes in its form and content.
