Explore the intricate, centuries-old process of Kathakali makeup and how our artists prepare for a mesmerizing performance.
The visual splendor of Kathakali is recognized worldwide, but few truly understand the discipline required before an artist even steps onto the stage. The process of Chutti—the intricate facial makeup and framing—can take up to four hours to complete.Guided by our Artistic Director, Mr. Sreejith Kalanilayam, our makeup artists use natural pigments mixed with coconut oil and rice paste to transform human faces into divine beings, demons, and heroes. This transformation is deeply spiritual. The dressing room remains completely silent as the actors lie down and allow the Chutti artists to build the elaborate white framing layer by layer.
Next time you watch a Kathakali performance at our theatre, take a moment to appreciate the living, breathing canvas of the actor's face—a true masterpiece of traditional Indian artistry.