Other Dances in India

Krislinanattam

It is intended for presen tation on eight successive nights to unfold the entire story of Lord Krishna; the style is almost akin to Kathakali.

Ottan Thullal

It is performed solo and because of its ready mass appeal, it is also known as the poor man's Kathakali. Kunjan Nambiar evolved it and brought out the social conditions of his time, the distinctions of class and the weaknesses and whims of the rich and the great. The dialogue is in simple Malayalam and therefore ensures mass appeal.

Yaksha Gana

This belongs to Karnataka and has a rural origin. It is an admixture of dance and drama. Its heart lies in 'Gana' mean ing music. It is about 400 years old. The language is Kannada and the themes are based on Hindu epics.

The costumes are almost akin to the Kathakali ones and the style seems to liave drawn inspiration from Kathakali As preserved in the Natya Shastra, it has the Suthra Dhara (conductor) and the Vidhushaka (the Jester).