The Women of Kathakali - An Exclusive Interaction in Kochi

Tour info

Duration
1 hour 30 minutes - 2 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Kathakali has been an all-male art form, with even women characters being portrayed by men. On this tour we meet members of India's first All Womens Kathakali group who broke through the male bastion, excelled in the art and made a mark for themselves. From being dismissed as a fad that would not last long they went on to win the President of India's medal of honour in the year 2017. On this tour the women artistes share with us their inspiring journey of starting the group while alongside explaining the different elements of this fascinating art form- its stories, language, costumes, music, training, mythology, et al. The interaction ends with a brief lecture-demonstration without make-up or costume. The tour is designed to be an informal one, it flows along naturally as a conversation between visitor and artiste, and last for about 2 hrs. The interaction is arranged at the private residence of the women artiste(s) which is located in Kochi, Kerala.

What’s included?

  • Light refreshments

  • Beverages

  • Snacks

  • Coffee and/or Tea

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 90-120 minutes

  • Mobile tickets accepted

Covid Policy

  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas

Our hosts and storytellers/guides are fully vaccinated.

Cancellation Policy

    All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

Operated by:

The Traveling Gecko

About operator:

The story of Cochin is also the story of the Cochin Royal Family. One among three major royal dynasties of Kerala, the Cochin Royal Family played a significant role in shaping Kerala’s history, both past and present. While narrating the fascinating story of the royal family, the trail also aims to create awareness, both within the family and outside, the alarming pace at which the Family and the City is losing its heritage. On this trail we explore the origins of the Royal Family and the rise and fall in their fortunes with the arrival of the Europeans before their eventual merger with the Indian Union. We look at their role in developing the modern city of Kochi and their contributions in the field of art, culture, language, education and medicine. We start with the Hill Palace, the last seat of power of the Cochin Rajahs, now a Museum, before moving to the residential quarters of the royal family that radiates around the family temple and showcases some of the best in traditional and colonial architecture. High-tea with present day members of the family at their private residence is how we bring the trail to an end. Please Note: “Palace” in a Kerala context is very different from what you would see in Mysore or Rajasthan. The interaction with the royal family will be an informal one.

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