Every village in India has a unique trait that sets it apart from the rest. Some are known for their delicious cuisine, while others are known for their rich cultural heritage. Ayroor village in Kerala, which has been renamed Ayirur Kathakali Gramam, is one such village that is known for its traditional dance form – Kathakali.
Located near the banks of the Pamba River, Ayirur Kathakali Gramam is a small village with a population of around 3000 people. For almost 200 years, this village has been the source of talented Kathakali dancers who have amazed audiences with their performances. The villagers take great pride in their cultural heritage and have dedicated their lives to preserving and protecting the tradition of Kathakali.
Renaming the village from Ayroor to Ayirur Kathakali Gramam was a tedious process that took twelve years. But the villagers were firm in their decision and finally fulfilled their dream. The new name pays homage to the traditional Kerala dance form and has put this small village on the map.
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Every year, during festivals, the talented Kathakali dancers from Ayirur Kathakali Gramam perform at the Mahadev Temple, drawing large crowds of tourists and devotees. The performances are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of this small village and have become a significant attraction for visitors to Kerala.
Hailing from South India, Kathakali draws its inspiration from the tales of Ramayana and Shaiva. Adorned in traditional costumes, the performers paint their faces to embody their characters. Additionally, they accessorize with headdresses and skillfully express the story’s emotions and essence through their facial and eye expressions while dancing.
Previously, only the royals and nobles had access to such dance forms, while commoners could not watch them. However, as time passed, the regulations were relaxed, and people began to get a glimpse of this dance form. Today, Kathakali has emerged as one of India’s most famous classical dance forms, and Ayirur Kathakali Gramam is leading the way in preserving and promoting this traditional art form.
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Ayirur Kathakali Gramam is a shining example of a small village that has significantly impacted the world stage. Its rich cultural heritage and tradition of Kathakali have made it a significant attraction for tourists visiting Kerala. The renaming of the village to Ayirur Kathakali Gramam is a fitting tribute to the traditional dance form and a testament to the villagers’ dedication to preserving their cultural heritage.
