Australian audiences had the rare opportunity to witness a full Kathakali program by a troupe from Kerala Kalamandalam. I had the privledge of attending the Sydney performance on 11 March 2010.

'The Killing of Dushasana' was depicted in five scenes commencing with the dice game between Yudhishtra and Shakuni, and the insult on Draupadi by Dushasana. The play then focuses on Lord Krishna and His conversation with a distressed Draupadi seeking avengence followed by His attempt to negotiate with the Kauravas on behalf of the Pandavas. When no solution eventuates the Mahabharata war ensues but Arjuna has doubts. Charioteer Krishna gives him the reasons and courage to fight on (Gitopadesham) and the Kurukshetra battle continues. Bhima triumphs a bloody victory over Dushasana and gains avengence for the ridicule of Draupadi.

Seven dancers were featured and the musicians consisted of two vocalists, two Chenda artites and two maddalam artistes. They were supported by makeup artistes and stage hands.


After years of hearing stories from my father about all night performances he had attended, this was the first proper Kathakali performance I had attended. It is more of natya (drama) than pure dance, with the added colour and character of the colourful costumes and intricate facial makeup. A program guide gave useful tips to the scenes ahead as did introductions before the program and after the interval.

The music was of good quality and featured traditional Carnatic ragas such as Yadukula Kambhoji, Ahiri, Surati, Begada, Kurinji and Madhyamavati.

It was incredible to see a 600 strong audience on a balmy Thursday night in Sydney. Only about 10% of this consisted of NRIs the rest being Australians. Kudos to the Natraj Cultural Centre for bringing this troupe to Australia with the support of ICCR and other Australian patrons.

Mohan - beautiful picture. I have to say that my exposure to kathakaLi has been abyssmal! I would like to see a live show sometime. Of all the classical dance forms from India, kathakaLi I think is one of the forms that is least seen on the world stage.

wow! sounds like an incredible performance..kudos to people who still have the patience to go through intense training and perform for ever dwindling audience base...