Friday, February 27, 2026

Kathakali, Bharatanatyam & Beyond – A Fusion of Traditions in Munnar

 

(REACH FOR VIDEO LINK, BELOW)

Our arrival in Kerala on 5th February 2026 was marked by an unforgettable cultural experience. After a scenic drive from Kochi to Munnar, with misty hills and lush tea plantations unfolding along the way, we stepped into the vibrant world of Kerala’s performing arts at The Raga Theatre.

That evening, we witnessed a Kathakali Fusion Dance Show—a mesmerizing blend of South India’s classical traditions. The program featured Kathakali, Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, and Theyyam, each performed with grace and intensity.

One of the highlights was watching the elaborate make-up ritual of the Kathakali artistes. The transformation of characters like Dushasana and Bheema was itself a performance, an art form that requires patience, precision, and symbolism. The vibrant colours, intricate facial designs, and towering headgear brought mythological stories to life before our eyes.

For us, this was the first live Kathakali performance, and it felt like stepping into Kerala’s cultural soul. The fusion aspect of the show added variety, allowing us to appreciate the unique rhythm and storytelling styles of Bharatanatyam, the graceful sways of Mohiniyattam, the dynamic energy of Kuchipudi, and the raw, ritualistic power of Theyyam.

This evening was not just entertainment; it was a cultural immersion. The Raga Theatre created a space where tradition met modern presentation, making the experience accessible yet authentic.

Interestingly, 2026 has already been a year of dance for us. We began with a Bharatanatyam Arangetram in Chennai on 3rd January, and now, Kerala has gifted us this unforgettable Kathakali fusion. We hope to continue this journey of live performances throughout the year.

You can relive snippets of this magical evening in my video here:

👉 https://youtu.be/KbP8CsGspZw  

Stay tuned, more posts will follow on Kerala – ‘God’s Own Country’, in the days ahead.



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Kathakali, Bharatanatyam & Beyond – A Fusion of Traditions in Munnar

  (REACH FOR VIDEO LINK, BELOW) Our arrival in Kerala on 5th February 2026 was marked by an unforgettable cultural experience. After a sceni...