Onam Dance

The best of Kerala dances can be witnessed during the grand carnival of Onam. It is simply enthralling to note how rich is the folk culture of the state of Kerala. A display of so many unique and well perfected dances on a single platform pulls a number of dance lovers from all over the world to Kerala on Onam.

Some of the best known Kerala dances are performed on the occasion of Onam. Most remarkable of them all are Kathakali, Kaikottikali and Thumbi Thullal. If the unparalleled performance of Kathakali artistes leaves the audience awestruck, the very elegant Kaikottikali has the power to enchant them and leave them asking for more. Grace and simplicity are the hallmarks of Kerala dances and also their inherent characteristics.

The other enchanting folk dances performed on the occasion of Onam include Kumattikali and Pulikali or Kaduvakali. These are not just colourful and well orchestrated but are also hugely entertaining. Plaited grass and big wooden masks are particular to Kummatikali dancers who shake themselves on the rhythm provided by onavillu for the recreation of the people. Pulikali performers on the other hand paint themselves as tigers and enact hunting scenes to amuse people.