Velakali Dance of Kerala

Velakali is a spectacular martial dance performed in a few temples of Southern Kerala by Nair warriors holding wooden swords and shields.

Velakali originated in Ambalappuzha where Mathoor Panicker, a chief of the Chempakasserri army, promoted it to boost the martial spirit of the people.

Velakali is a regular feature at the Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple festival in Alappuzha district.

Performed By
Nair Warriors

Accompanying Instruments

'Maddalam', 'Ilathalam', 'Kombu' and 'Kuzhal'.

Dance Style

The dancers, clad in traditional clothes and colourful headgear of medieval Nair soldiers, engage in vigorous movements and dexterous sword play, to the accompaniment of an orchestra comprising 'Maddalam', 'Ilathalam', 'Kombu' and 'Kuzhal'.

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