The dance forms are performed both by men and women. Men have more dance forms than women in this state. It is very difficult to classify these dance forms on the basis of social, religious and marital grounds. The dance forms in Kerela are worshiped and have become the life of the people performing them.
Kerala is known for this dance form. It is the ancient dance drama of Kerala which is the oldest theater form 舞蹈表演. It is a combination of dance, drama, music, acting, percussion, mythology, cultures and rituals. This dance form is performed on mythological characters of the epics such as Ramayana, Mahabharata and other ancient scriptures. It is generally performed by the male dancers. The people of Kerala worship this dance form.
Mohiniyattam is also known as ‘Kerala Nadanam’. It is a female semi classical dance which is very sensual and done with graceful moves. It is mostly done in the temple grounds of Kerala. It is done with the theme of love and devotion for God. The dance movements are gentle, graceful and eye expressions are compelling. The attire for this dance form is very simple(white saree and golden borders) with realistic makeup.
Thirvathirakali is also known as Kaikottikali. This dance form is performed during the Onam festival in Kerala. It is a group dance performed by both women who can dance in circles and rhythmically to the tunes of the song played during this dance form. Kolkalli is a dance form which is performed by both men and women in a group of 24 dancers. The rhythmic tune is generated with the wooden sticks with special steps. The dance is performed in a circle by the artists.
This dance form has been created by Malayalam poet named Kalakkaththu Kunchan Nambiar. This dace is performed in a story format where every artist plays their characters accompanied by the musical tone, mridangaandidakka. Koodiyattam is a dramatic dance presentation in Sanskrit. It is said that the history of dance drama emerged from Koodiyattam. The meaning of this dance form is ‘dancing together and that is the reason men and women share an equal status in Koodiyattam. Instruments with high quality music are used In this.
Chakyar koothu is an ancient dance form and is belongs to highly refined monologue. This dance form is narrated in a dance form to the audience using epics and ancient scriptures. It is performed only during special occasions and festivals in the temples of Kerala. This dance form involves minimum choreography and maximum facial expressions.
Theyyam is a socio-religious dance form of kerala also known as Kaliyatom or Thirayattom. It is a ritual dance form to glorify goddess Kaali. It is performed in every village and is very much popular in the lower castes of the society. It is performed without any particular makeup or colorful costumes.