Nurturing the Kathakali body

Though artistes vouch for the efficacy of the rigorous massage routine, Ayurvedic practitioners say there is no scientific basis to it

One of the major factors that sets Kathakali apart from other classical dance and theatre forms of India is the longevity of the artistic life of its performers. Kathakali artistes, who perform physically demanding roles at the age of 70 or 80 quite casually, credit their strength to the rigorous physical training they undergo as students, particularly, the traditional oil massage or uzhichil they are given in the kalari. The tough training regimen, adapted from Kerala’s martial art form, Kalaripayattu, is meant to achieve meyyurappu, a catch-all phrase that means flexibility, balance, control and strength. The idea is to prepare the body to suit Kathakali’s movements. Yet another factor peculiar to Kathakali is the heavy costume weighing up to 12 kg, with the kireedam or the crown alone weighing between 2.5 kg to 3.5 kg, depending on the character. And then there are the 64 tight knots, from calf to forehead, that secure the various accessories.