Future of Kathakali in India

Being a part of the age old cultural civilization, it is important for us to understand the value and need of the traditional dance form that are more than 500 years old and must not be allowed to pass into oblivion forever. It is true that the majority of youth today have deviated their focus and interest towards modern dance forms. Therefore, the need to create awareness and genuine awareness in the minds of the young generation become vital is part for the future of Kathakali in India, so that they are able to enjoy classical dance performances in the real sense of the term.


Apparently thousands of young people are heavily into non-classical dances; but there is no dearth of real talent and latent qualities in many individuals, who will religiously carry forward the traditions in future. There are people who are determined to make this art form more popular among the youngsters. Today, sadly, this ancient form of dance is dying out. Youngsters who might once have become Kathakali dancers are drawn to hip-hop music and its promise of instant fame and money. 

(Image Courtesy:Google)

At the same time the exponents of this ancient art like Kerala Kalamandalam, the centre for Indian performing arts, have failed to make Kathakali simpler and more attractive to the present generation.Today, sadly, this ancient form of dance is dying out. Youngsters who might once have become Kathakali dancers are drawn to hip-hop music and its promise of instant fame and money.At the same time the exponents of this ancient art like Kerala Kalamandalam, the centre for Indian performing arts, have failed to make Kathakali simpler and more attractive to the present generation.The lack of understanding audiences and donations has led to such a scarcity of funds that it is virtually unfeasible to run and preserve the Kathakali training institutions. As a result most of them have closed down and the remaining few are in virtual decline.The government has experimented in paying lip service to Kathakali but it has not helped the cause much to revive the training centres. The future of Kathakali appears austere and gloomy; and it will certainly be a national tragedy if future generations are deprived of experiencing this important part of India's artistic heritage. 

(Image Courtesy:Google)