Folk Performances from Kerala January 2, 2009

DakshinaChitra celebrates the Marghazi & Village Heritage Festival once again and will comes alive to the rhythms, movements and colours of different folk dances of South India between the 25th dec 2008 – 12th jan 2009. This special festival coincides with the New Year Celebration and has been tailor-made to suit the festive mood and there will be dancing all day – village style. This village festival offers unique opportunity to witness the rich and varied folk art forms of South India at one go. Different styles of folk dances representing the four southern states will perform throughout this season. Dharika Vadam is a traditional art form performed by the Paraya community, the followers of pakkanar and it is related to the Kali myth. As in other parts of India, kali myth has prevelant in kerala too and this art form narrates the story and fight between Kali and Dharika. Colourful costumes, special head gears and ornaments are worn by the dancers. The play begins with a song and reaches a vibrant and loud finish. Kuda Chozhi is an art form which depicts the harvest season and is considered the bhootha ganas of Kali. Chozhis are two types, kuda chozhi and thriruvathira chozi. After the harvest, kuda chozhi would visit each house and bless them. For details contact 27472783, 27472603.