Decoding Kathakali: Cholliyattam

In this video performing arts scholar, V Kaladharan explains the process through which students of Kathakali learn the art form. Once they have absorbed the all the myriad elements, the last step is when the actors come together with the musicians and singers and everything is integrated. Characters and storylines are studied, developed and enacted. The only missing elements are the makeup and costumes. This is called Cholliyattam.