• June 1, 2022

Learn Kathakali mudras from maestro Kalamandalam Vijayakumar (Video): Free Kathakali exhibition in Croydon

Learn Kathakali mudras from maestro Kalamandalam Vijayakumar (Video): Free Kathakali exhibition in Croydon

By A Staff Reporter

LONDON JUNE 1: Welcome to the first digital dictionary of Kathakali Mudras (sign language) in the world. This dictionary was created by Kathakali actor, Kalamandalam Vijayakumar, to help audiences understand and enjoy Kathakali on a deeper level.

If you want to understand what these actors are saying this dictionary contains all the words used in a Kathakali play.

Kathakali Mudras (sign language) are a complex visual language that evolved over thousands of years. This sign language originated in the Hindu temples then was adapted into drama, so description, emotion, characters and grammar are incorporated into the language.

To enable people to access, understand and enjoy this abstract language Kalamandalam Vijayakumar has created a Digital Dictionary of all the mudras used in Kathakali.

Each lesson begins with a specific letter of the English alphabet and will consequently take this dictionary to an international audience.

You can access this dictionary and the lessons on www.kathakalimudras.com

LIFE BEHIND THE COSTUME

Life Behind The Costume is an exhibition to discover the culture of Kerala through an inspiring exhibition of Kathakali, Bharatanatyam and Mohiniyattam costumes, traditional dress of Kerala, films and photographs.

The exhibition is at present ongoing at Museum of Croydon, Croydon Clocktower, Katharine Street, CR9 1ET until 16th September 2022 (Wednesdays and Fridays only)

Exhibition is free admission for all – Walk-ins welcome / booking not required. CLICK TO KNOW MORE

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