30 years of Keli: A year-long celebration commences with classical dance performances

A kathakali performance

Dance is the poetry that our body recites without words, and the performing artistes at Keli hope to translate this as they complete 30 years with a kathakali and koodiyattam festival. The year-long celebrations will focus on the medley of arts that happens to curate the cultural fabric of India.

(From left) Fazal Qureshi, Ustad Zakir Hussain and Mike Hart enjoy a previous edition of Keli Rhythm Festival

Kathakali has entertained audiences since the 17th century whereas koodiyattam is 1,800 years old and is regarded as one of the most ancient Sanskrit theatre traditions. The staging of these dance forms will be preceded by expert conversations. The performers include Priya Nambuthiri (kathakali) and Sooraj Nambiar (koodiyattam). Nambiar shares about the session, "Dialogue spaces should be created between the audience and performers to discuss the act so that it can give an idea about different phases of the form's evolution from a historic and anthropological perspective."

Keli has succeeded in introducing rural art treasures to urban audiences. Ramachandran K, its artistic director, notes, "We have experienced how people across cultures can be united through art. At these percussion performances, we have witnessed attendees who have danced and enjoyed the proceedings at Horniman Circle Garden. Ustad Zakir Hussain has attended the fest on several occasions. At 30, we realise that the function of the arts reaches beyond amusement. This year-long celebration will strive to explore how it can validate our culture and reshape our society."

Festival schedule

>> Day 1 Kathakali

On: October 15; 6.30 pm onwards
At: Terna Auditorium, Nerul West, Navi Mumbai.

>> Day 2 Koodiyattam

On: October 16; 6.30 pm onwards
At: DAE Convention Centre, Anushakti Nagar.
Log on to: keliindia.org

Passes available at the venues