Arts and Culture in Kerala
Rich cultural heritage of Kerala fascinates the tourists a lot. The art and culture of the state dates backs to centuries portraying various dance forms and martial arts performed with the help of both vocal and instrumental music. Most of these art forms are performed during festivals or celebrations. Kerala is rich in myriad art forms which are grand spectacle of colors and costumes.
Kerala is having a rich cultural heritage, which goes way back to ancient times. The contribution of Kerala to literature, music and arts of Indian heritage is unique and exemplary. The history of Kerala goes back more than several millennia. Stone age carving in Edakkal Caves had pictorial writings believed to be dating to atleast 5000 BC, from the Neolithic man, indicating the presence of a prehistoric civilization or settlement in this region.
Like the rest of the south India, Kerala also, in earlier times, was ruled by the Dravidians. Hence, the influence of the race is very much apparent even today. Though the majority of people are Hindus in the state, there are considerable percentages of Christian and Muslim population as well. Till the time Israel was created, a significant number of Jews also resided in the state. The co existence of diverse religion has made the people not only extremely tolerant, rather it has given birth to a sense of respect for other religious faith as well. The official language of the state is Malayalam and the people are quiet frequently referred to as Malayalees. English is also spoken widely as Kerala commands the respect of being hundred percent literate state.
The main features of the arts of Kerala are the spectacular visual effects and mind blowing music. The various art forms of Kerala can bring a pride to our state. There is no other state in India which can boast of about such magnificent and creative art forms. All the art forms of Kerala are encouraged and accepted by the Kings of older times as well as the government of today. Kerala has got a rich culture rich with a great heritage. The arts have kept alive the cultural and heritage of Kerala.
To the South West extreme of India, lies a land, rich in every aspect imaginable; lush green, fertile land crisscrossed by seething rivers; beaches- stunningly beautiful where the waves seem to well up and kiss the golden sands; backwaters and marshlands where the flora seems to have tamed the Ocean itself; and above all a race of people, who seem to have mastered the essence of civilization.
Rich in culture, cuisine and, capabilities, excelling in education, sports and unique martial arts, yes, this is the blessed land of Kerala indeed.
Arts
| Kathakali | |
| Kalaripayattu | |
| Velakali | |
| Theyyam | |
| Ottanthullal |
Artists
| Raja Ravi Varma | |