Distinguishing Features of Kathakali

Description: Kathakali is a classical Indian dance-drama form that originated in Kerala. It is known for its elaborate costumes, expressive makeup, and dynamic movements. This quiz will test your knowledge about the distinguishing features of Kathakali.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: indian classical dance kathakali dance-drama kerala
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Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Kathakali costumes?

  1. Elaborate headgear

  2. Bright colors

  3. Minimalistic design

  4. Detailed facial makeup


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Kathakali costumes are known for their elaborate headgear, bright colors, and detailed facial makeup. They are designed to enhance the characters' expressions and movements.

What is the primary language used in Kathakali performances?

  1. Sanskrit

  2. Malayalam

  3. Hindi

  4. Tamil


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Kathakali performances are primarily conducted in Malayalam, the language of Kerala. However, Sanskrit verses and songs are also incorporated into the performances.

Which of the following is NOT a type of character in Kathakali?

  1. Paccha

  2. Katthi

  3. Kari

  4. Minukku


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Paccha, Katthi, and Kari are the three main types of characters in Kathakali. Minukku is not a recognized character type.

What is the primary musical instrument used to accompany Kathakali performances?

  1. Mridangam

  2. Tabla

  3. Veena

  4. Sitar


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The mridangam is the primary musical instrument used to accompany Kathakali performances. It is a double-headed drum that produces a deep, resonant sound.

Which of the following is NOT a common theme in Kathakali plays?

  1. Mythological stories

  2. Historical events

  3. Social issues

  4. Contemporary themes


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Kathakali plays typically revolve around mythological stories, historical events, or social issues. Contemporary themes are not commonly explored in Kathakali.

What is the name of the elaborate facial makeup worn by Kathakali performers?

  1. Chutti

  2. Tala

  3. Mudra

  4. Kathakali Vesham


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Kathakali Vesham is the term used to describe the elaborate facial makeup worn by Kathakali performers. It is an integral part of the performance and helps to convey the character's emotions and personality.

Which of the following is NOT a type of movement in Kathakali?

  1. Nritta

  2. Nritya

  3. Natya

  4. Abhinaya


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Nritta, Nritya, and Natya are the three main types of movement in Kathakali. Abhinaya is not a type of movement but rather a term used to describe the expressive gestures and facial expressions used to convey emotions and ideas.

What is the name of the traditional theater where Kathakali performances are held?

  1. Koothambalam

  2. Yakshagana Rangamandira

  3. Bharatnatyam Natyamandir

  4. Kuchipudi Kalakshetra


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Koothambalam is the traditional theater where Kathakali performances are held. It is a large, open-air structure with a raised stage and a sloping roof.

Which of the following is NOT a common musical composition used in Kathakali performances?

  1. Padam

  2. Ashtapadi

  3. Kirtana

  4. Ghazal


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Padam, Ashtapadi, and Kirtana are common musical compositions used in Kathakali performances. Ghazal is a genre of poetry and music that is not typically associated with Kathakali.

What is the name of the traditional orchestra that accompanies Kathakali performances?

  1. Panchavadyam

  2. Melam

  3. Chenda Melam

  4. Nadaswaram Ensemble


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Melam is the traditional orchestra that accompanies Kathakali performances. It consists of a variety of percussion instruments, including the chenda, maddalam, and ilathalam.

Which of the following is NOT a common theme in Kathakali plays?

  1. Love

  2. War

  3. Devotion

  4. Politics


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Love, war, and devotion are common themes in Kathakali plays. Politics is not a common theme.

What is the name of the traditional dance-drama form that is closely related to Kathakali?

  1. Bharatnatyam

  2. Kuchipudi

  3. Odissi

  4. Yakshagana


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Yakshagana is the traditional dance-drama form that is closely related to Kathakali. It originated in Karnataka and shares many similarities with Kathakali, such as elaborate costumes, expressive makeup, and dynamic movements.

Which of the following is NOT a common character type in Kathakali?

  1. Hero

  2. Villain

  3. Comic character

  4. Animal character


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Hero, villain, and comic character are common character types in Kathakali. Animal characters are not typically featured in Kathakali plays.

What is the name of the traditional hand gesture used in Kathakali to convey emotions and ideas?

  1. Mudra

  2. Abhinaya

  3. Nritta

  4. Nritya


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Mudra is the traditional hand gesture used in Kathakali to convey emotions and ideas. There are hundreds of different mudras, each with its own specific meaning.

Which of the following is NOT a common musical instrument used in Kathakali performances?

  1. Chenda

  2. Maddalam

  3. Veena

  4. Tabla


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Chenda, Maddalam, and Veena are common musical instruments used in Kathakali performances. Tabla is not typically used in Kathakali.

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