Kerala has evolved from very ancient days its typical dance forms which are highly expressive of the way of living and the outlook of its people.

Mohiniyattam

Mohiniyattam is a typical dance form of Kerala which has had a chequered history. Literally it means the dances of the enchantress. Mohiniyattam, even the costumes and the make up having a distinctiveness of their own. In fact, Mohiniyattam as a dance form has been developed in Kalamandalam to such a perfection as to attract the attention of students and teachers of art from other parts of India and even abroad.

Kalaripayattu ...Another form of martial art

Believed by many histories and scholars as one of the oldest and most scientific and comprehensive system of martial training existing in the world today. Kalaripayattu the ancient martial art of Kerala truly deserves the title of the forerunner of all martial arts. With the help of the available historical evidences, the present practicing traditions origin can be traced back to the 12th century A.D. The word Kalaripayattu literally means Combat training inside the gymnasium. Kalaripayattu declined after the 17th century but in recent times it has staged a revival, thanks to the activities of various kalari sanghams. The training consists of self disciplinary training and physical culture. The most promising of the trainees are taught the Marmas, viz the vulnerable points in the human system. Based on the ayurvedic system of medical practice the old masters of Kalaripayattu has indeginously developed methods of treatments for kalari related injuries like bruises, fractures etc. known as kalarichikilsa. The training aims at the ultimate co-ordination of mind and body.

Classical Music

Kerala has enriched the cultural heritage of India in the field of music, vocal and instrumental, both in its art form and in its folk form. A number of musical instruments are used in Kerala namely percussion, wind and stringed instruments. Mridangam, Dolak, Udukku, Chenda, Timila, Edakka, Takil and a few other represent the percussion type. The chief stringed instruments are Vina, Tamburu, Sarangi, Swarabi and Violin.

Kathakali ...Another Classical Dance of Kerala
Kathakali is the most refined, the most scientific and elaborately defined dance drama of Kerala. The stories are selected from epics and mythologies and the actor expresses himself through mime, hand gesture, eye movements and highly complicated steps. Kathakali is a unique combination of the insight of an actor, dancer, singer, drummer, sculptor, designer and dreamer.