When Did Kathakali Originated?

Part-dance and part-mime, Kathakali originated in the state of Kerala between the 16th and 17th centuries, around the same time as Shakespeare. The Kalluvazhi Chitta style being performed by these dancers was born on the stage at the now-closed Kathakali school at Olappamanna Mana in Vellinezhi, almost 200 years ago.

When was Kathakali invented?

Specifically, the origins of Kathakali dance date back to the late 16th and early 17th century in India. At that time, it was given its present name and took on its modern-day characteristics. However, its roots go back much further into ancient folk arts and classical dances in Kerala.

Who started Kathakali?

The kathakali is attributed to sage Bharata, and its first complete compilation is dated to between 200 BCE and 200 CE, but estimates vary between 500 BCE and 500 CE. The most studied version of the Natya Shastra text consists of about 6000 verses structured into 36 chapters.