Velakali
Velakali
is a spectacular martial dance performed in a few temples of Southern Kerala
by Nair warriors holding wooden swords and shields.
The dancers, clad in traditional clothes and colourful headgear of medieval
Nair soldiers, engage in vigorous movements and dexterous sword play, to the
accompaniment of an orchestra comprising 'Maddalam', 'Ilathalam', 'Kombu' and
'Kuzhal'.
Velakali originated in Ambalappuzha where Mathoor Panicker, a chief of the Chempakasserri
army, promoted it to boost the martial spirit of the people. Velakali is a regular
feature at the Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple festival in Alappuzha district.
Dances in Kerala
Kathakali
|| Koothu
|| Chavittunatakom
|| Oppana
|| Valakkali
|| Mohiniyattam
|| Paana || Kolkkali
|| Thiruathirakkali
|| Tholppavakoothu
|| Krishnanattom
|| Kakkarissi
Natakom || Thullal
|| Kootiyattom
|| Duffmuttu
