Kathakali which symbolizes the visual art of Kerala. Kathakali is a form of dance drama. Elements of music, dance, painting, poetry and drama blend in a unique way to make this art form stand out amongst other classical dance forms. Kathakali has evolved from classical dance forms such as Koodiyattam and also imbibed elements of several folk art forms that existed in Kerala. The many aspects of traditional rituals and ceremonies that Kathakali picked up on its evolutionary course from various folk arts, has since then become its integral part.

Now it has developed to be qualified as a universal art. This distinguished art which has not even a distant connection with any foreign art has attracted the whole world and received unequivocal praise from them all. Despite the hurdles created in the way of understanding this art clearly, its themes are pertaining to legends and holy scriptures or puranas of ancient past. Despite the complex techniques of dramatization, intricate artificiality in the dressing system and miming action, kathakali is still being appreciated by every one.

What is the reason for this? The main reason for its appeal is its attractiveness gained by the perfect blending of numerous varieties of fine arts. Kathakali is an art form to which the term 'total theatre' may be applied. Various art forms like dance, dance-drama, music, instrumental-music, perfect mechanical art (shilpam) etc., have been incorporated into kathakali. The ancient preceptors of kathakali have combined various facets of many important arts in it, so that various levels of appreciation emanate from it. Kathakali has the ability to entertain an audience of varying tastes. The organizational beauty of the art increases the impact of its outward appearance.

Certain alluring forms of art have gained national importance in every state of India. Bharata Natya, kuchippudi, kathak, Yakshagana etc., are some of them. Kathakali has already developed to such an extent that it is able to overtake these art forms. Its progress towards perfection by the integration of traditional arts that have lasted for centuries, was the main reason for the development of this art to the present level. Conscious effort is required to fully enjoy this art, which is entirely classical in character. A complete knowledge about the background of its origin, development and evolution, four-fold acting system and puranic atmosphere is absolutely necessary in order to relish this art in its fullness.