The Rich Tapestry of Kerala's Folk Arts
Kerala's folk arts are a reflection of its festivals, traditions, and the daily beat of rural life. Each of its arts -- be it Kathakali, Theyyam, or Ottamthullal -- has a tale to tell through gestures, music, and flowing movement.
If you are lodging at a Farmhouse in Thrissur, you are lodging at the center of Kerala culture. Thrissur is the "Cultural Capital of Kerala," and well it might be — religion and art go hand in hand here.
Common People Arts That You Can See Around a Farmhouse in Thrissur
Let us discuss some of the special forms of art that you get to witness when you are lodging in the vicinity of Sukrutham Farmstay.
- Kathakali – The Dance of the Gods
You just can't go to Kerala and not watch Kathakali. This dance-drama tells the epics of the Ramayana and Mahabharata with elaborate makeup, green-painted faces, and long, unrealistic facial expressions. At Thrissur, the Kerala Kalamandalam (which is a short drive from Sukrutham Farmstay) provides the ideal place to witness traditional Kathakali performances. Witnessing an artist practice for hours before the performance is an experience in itself.
- Theyyam – The Sacred Performance
Head a bit north of Thrissur, especially towards Kannur and Kasaragod, and you can witness Theyyam — a ritual dance that transforms artists into gods. Classical make-ups of the face, multicoloured attire, and the rhythms of the traditional drums form the religious atmosphere. Perhaps you have witnessed it before, but you will always remember the dynamism of Theyyam.
- Koodiyattam – The Ancient Sanskrit Theatre
Read as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, Koodiyattam is the oldest Sanskrit theatre. It is performed traditionally in temple theatres known as Koothambalams. If you are staying at a homestay within Thrissur, it is easy to approach temple festivals or cultural centers where this fast-vanishing art form is preserved and performed.
- Pulikali – Tiger Dance of Thrissur
Pulikali, or "tigers' play," is Kerala's most vibrant, dynamic people art. Men painted tiger designs on their bodies and danced to classical beats along Thrissur's streets traditionally during the Onam festival. If your visit coincides with Onam, this is an absolute must-do — it's thrilling, spontaneous, and typically Kerala.
- Panchavadyam – Kerala Symphony
This five-piece ancient temple orchestra contributes rhythm and piety to the surroundings. It's normally performed at temple festivals, and their melodic patterns still resonate in Sukrutham Farmstay villages. The coordinated rhythms and rapid rising tempo could relax even the roughest body, even for the so-called fans of other classical music elsewhere in the world.
Where to Watch These Performances
You won't need to travel much from your Farm Stay in Kerala to access these cultural events. Some of the available choices near your residence are:
- Kerala Kalamandalam, Cheruthuruthy: A world-renowned school for learning classical and traditional art. Individuals can witness live performances and become acquainted with artists.
- Thrissur Town Hall: Organizes cultural festivals and folk art exhibitions throughout the year.
- Local Temples and Festivals: Some of the villages surrounding Sukrutham Farmstay organize Theyyam, Panchavadyam, and Koodiyattam festivals as part of temple festivals.
- Sukrutham Farmstay Cultural Evenings: At times local artists are also invited to the farm itself — offering the guests an exclusive and personalized exposure to the folk arts of Kerala against the serene nature backdrop.
Why Folk Arts Matter to the Kerala Experience
To experience these arts in their own setting — with temple lamps all around you, the sound of the drums, and the ancient chants — makes you a part of the soul of Kerala. They assure you that art does not always have to stay confined within a stage; it is in people.
For travellers who choose Home Stay in Kerala, such as Sukrutham Farmstay, this connection comes naturally. You’re not just watching a show; you’re part of the local rhythm — waking up to the sound of birds, sharing meals cooked with love, and witnessing arts that have survived centuries.
A Stay That Blends Culture and Comfort
Sukrutham Farmstay is far beyond tranquil retreats. It's immersion in the Kerala lifestyle — where one can be in nature, taste traditional cuisine, and experience folk arts in their wild form. Be it a peaceful evening post a Kathakali performance or early-morning walk prior to a temple festival, every experience here can be a tale.
If you'd rather your travel experience be more than nice pictures — if you wish to feel the beat of Kerala — you need to spend a night at a Home Stay in Thrissur like Sukrutham Farmstay.
Briefly:
Since you are in Kerala, don't just make your journey an eye journey. Attend a performance, dance to the rhythm of drums, welcome the performers, and allow their tales to linger. That's the true rhythm of life near a Kerala farmhouse — real, heart-to-heart, and never-to-forget.