Margamkali — one of the oldest surviving Christian folk dance traditions in India, blending faith, storytelling, and communal grace in a way few dances ever do. What Is Margamkali? Margamkali is a traditional group dance performed by the Syrian Christian community of Kerala, especially during weddings and church feasts. The word “Margam” means ‘the way’…
In a dimly lit temple courtyard in Kerala, the air fills with the sharp beat of drums. Flames flicker. A performer, face painted red and eyes blazing, enters with a towering headdress swaying above him. The crowd gasps, children hide behind elders, and the battle begins — not with swords, but with rhythm, masks, and…
On a scorching afternoon in Thrissur, the streets start to tremble — not with thunder, but with drumbeats. Suddenly, a wave of orange, yellow, and black comes charging through. Dozens of painted “tigers” leap and roar to the rhythm of the chenda, delighting the thousands gathered to watch. This is Pulikali — Kerala’s most outrageous,…
In the shadowy night of a Kerala village temple, the air vibrates with the thunder of drums. Flaming torches light up enormous masks — some fierce, others hauntingly serene. Dancers, possessed by rhythm and spirit, stamp their feet in perfect sync with the chenda as the crowd watches in awe, caught between fear and fascination….
What Is Thiruvathirakali? Thiruvathirakali is a traditional group dance performed by women in Kerala, mostly during the festival of Thiruvathira, which falls in the Malayalam month of Dhanu (December–January). The word “Thiruvathira” refers to a star in the Malayalam calendar, believed to be sacred to Lord Shiva. The dance is a way for women to…
Imagine standing under a canopy of trees in a quiet village at dawn. Drums pound louder with each beat. A man — or is it a god? — emerges, painted in vivid red and black, wearing a towering headdress and eyes blazing with something beyond human. This is not a performance. This is Theyyam —…
When we talk about ancient theater, most people think of Greek tragedies or Shakespearean drama. But few realize that nestled in the temple halls of Kerala is a tradition even older — Koodiyattam. It’s the world’s oldest surviving Sanskrit theater form, and it’s not just a performance — it’s a cultural time capsule, a sacred…
If Kathakali is Kerala’s thunder, then Mohiniyattam is its moonlight. Soft, slow, and flowing like a gentle river, Mohiniyattam is one of India’s most graceful classical dance forms — often described as poetry in motion. Less known than its male counterpart Kathakali, Mohiniyattam stands quietly in its own power, celebrating femininity, devotion, and beauty through…
If you’ve ever visited Kerala or plan to, there’s a vibrant art form you absolutely shouldn’t miss — Ottamthullal. It’s loud, colorful, witty, and completely unforgettable. While Kathakali often gets the spotlight as Kerala’s classical art form, Ottamthullal is its cheeky cousin — faster, funnier, and full of satire. Let’s dive into what makes Ottamthullal…
If you’ve ever been fascinated by martial arts like kung fu or taekwondo, you’ll be amazed to discover Kalaripayattu — one of the oldest martial arts in the world, and it comes from the southern Indian state of Kerala. With its flowing movements, traditional weapons, and deep connection to mind and body, Kalaripayattu is more…
Seleketrip is your trusted travel companion for exploring the breathtaking beauty and timeless charm of Kerala. From cruising the peaceful backwaters to trekking through misty hills, enjoying traditional Ayurvedic wellness, or experiencing vibrant festivals — Seleketrip brings you curated journeys that go beyond the ordinary.