KATHAK | KATHAKALI

Kathak:

The costumes of Kathak are a curious ad-mixture of Hindu and Muslim culture. The men wear a light pyjama and a waist coat. On the waist coat there is often a decoration chest belt full of gold and sparkle. There is a brocade cap. The dancer does not use heavy make up. Usually the eyes, the eye brows, lips, cheeks are touched up in a natural way. The women wear a long much pleated kurta over a tight salvar or pyjama, a brocaded cap and a dupatta or a veil. Sometimes they wear a long pleated skirt or a sari and a blouse with a dupatta or veil. 

Men also sometimes wear short kurta-s. The very attractive. There are many dancers who are capable of producing the sound of one single bell in their string of 108 bells which indeed reflects the genius of each dance.

Kathakali:

The make-up and costumery for Kathakali have gained world wide fame due to their distinct nature. Because of the heavy colourful make-up and elaborate costumes and jewellery the dancer can submerge his individuality in the character he depicts. The characters wear shoulder ornaments full of beads and also shining chest belts. They wear long arm apparel usually coloured, bedecked with beads to lend gorgeous appearance. They wear following skirts having many pleats.