Culture of Kerala

                                                                                         

Kerala is a unique travel destination. In addition to placid backwaters, verdant mangroves, Ayurvedic expertise and glistening beaches, Kerala also boasts of a rich and diverse cultural heritage. With many people from several communities and religions living in this state along the west coast of South India, Kerala is a meeting point of various cultures. However, by and large, its culture, lifestyle artistic forms, beliefs, and civilization are Dravidian.

Hindus, Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, and Jews also inhabit the state and have influenced the culture of Kerala in big and small ways. The official language of the state is Malayalam. Kerala is the only state in India to boast of a 100% literacy rate. This has given the people of Kerala a modern outlook and intellectual background. The people take a fond interest in education, art, Ayurveda, dance and music. Fairs and festivals are also joyously celebrated here.

Kathakali is the most popular dance form associated with Kerala. It combines performing art forms such as opera, ballet, masque, and pantomime. An intensely enjoyable experience, a Kathakali performance is a traditional way of displaying dance, music, drama, color, and expressions beautifully. In a Kathakali performance we can see a marriage of “Katha” meaning story and “Kali” meaning performance. Other dance forms of Kerala are Mohiniattam, Oppanna, Thullal, Koodiyattom, Thiruvathirakali, Kakkarishi Natakom, and Chavittunatakom.

Kalaripayattu is an ancient form of martial arts that hails the gods and the warriors. This form of martial arts requires great skill, flexibility and dedication on part of the performer. Many people in South India also see it as a great way to stay in shape and enjoy mental and physical harmony.

Another important aspect of the culture of Kerala is its close association with the ancient Indian science of healing, Ayurveda. Today, Ayurveda is practiced most abundantly and seriously in Kerala. A major chunk of the country’s renowned Ayurveda resorts and masters are located in Kerala.

Tourism is also part and parcel of the culture of Kerala. Forever bustling with tourists, Kerala is among the most popular destinations of India. People visit this state, also known as “God’s Own Country”, for sundry reasons. Some flock to Kerala for its glorious beaches, to get Ayurvedic treatments, some cruise on its backwaters while others explore mangroves and savor the spicy Kerala cuisine. The people of Kerala are very friendly and open their arms wide for tourists.

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