Kathakali is one of the major forms of classical Indian dance which is from Kerala. The dance is a form of story-plays and is known for colorful make-up, elaborate costumes and masks that the traditionally male actor-dancers wear.

There is a narrator known as the 'sutradhar' who narrates the story through a song. Though the dance itself takes the spotlight, I found the intensity and the singing abilities of the narrator captivating. Here's my impression of his performance.

Kalaripayattu is one of the oldest martial arts and fighting system, which originated as a style in Kerala, India and is said to have originated around the 3rd century BC. I got a chance to see a demonstration of the martial art at a local theater.

The above illustration is inspired by Meenakshi Gurrukkal, whom I remember reading about. At the age of 74, she is possibly the oldest woman exponent of Kalaripayattu.

When walking the lanes of Fort Kochi, I came across many handicrafts shops selling exquisite works of art and craft with a big influence from Keralite culture.

One of the shops had a workshop at the back besides which we were passing and got a chance to see the artisan at work. The place was full with wooden pieces, recently shaped and getting painted into the final artworks. Here's my depiction of the artisan I saw at work.