The martial art dance of Kanyarkali

Kerala in South India is a rich repository of folk arts and traditions, and Kanyarkali is a typical example of it. It originated from the martial art tradition that was prevalent in the Nair community of the Palakkad district of Kerala.

The movements in this dance form are swift, emphasizing its martial arts connection and the dance is accompanied by music and percussion instruments.

Kanyarkali is performed during the summer months of March-April, with special stagings on Vishu, the starting day for various farming practices as per the Malayalam calendar in Kerala.

Two well-known styles of Kanyarkali are Vattakkali and Porattu, the former being more ritualistic than the latter.