Padayani is a ritualistic dance popular in Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha and Kollam, some southern districts of Kerala, India.
Intricate footsteps
The Padayani dance can only be performed by trained artistes. It requires great effort to learn the intricate footsteps. Aasan, a master performer and trainer leads the training. Regular physical exercises are essential.
The elaborate training is similar to that of the unarmed training methods in Kalarippayattu, the martial art of Kerala.
Training centres
Some leading training centres are the Gothra Kala Kalari at Kadammanitta in Pathanamthitta district, Kurampala Padeni Kalari at Pandalam in Pathanamthitta district and Gothra Kala Peedam at Kunnamthanam in Pathanamthitta district.
Interestingly, many temples famous for Padayani performances are located on the banks of a scenic river called Pamba.
Padayani
This art form is performed in the temples dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. The performers wear colourful masks and spectacular headgears, called Kolams. The dance is performed in the evenings at the temple premises.
Usually this is a week-long event, but there are temples where the festival is held for more days.
Valiya Padayani on the seventh day marks the grand finale of the event. A ceremonial procession carrying motifs is held on this day. Music and drum ensembles add to the charm of the procession.
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