folk

Kathakali is one of the oldest classical dance forms since the 17th century from the state of Kerala in South India. Known for its stylized and well-defined body movements, elaborate costumes and make-up, the artists dance to Carnatic music presenting stories of Hindu mythology. The dancers are always men performing both, male and female characters. The dance-drama stands out as the dancers never speak and use only hand gestures, highly emotive expressions and rhythmic movements instead of dialogue.

"GOTIPUA : the sacred dancers of Lord Krishna" - For centuries in India, the Gotipua dance tradition has survived in the small village of Raghurajpur, Orissa. In Oriya language, "Goti" means "single" and "Pua" means "boy". This dance is only performed by young acrobat boys who dress up as female to praise Lord Krishna. The classical Odissi dance has taken inspiration from the Gotipua dance, as most of the famous Odissi gurus were Gotipua dancers during their young days.