Photography by Sunil Kulkarni

Kathakali, the highly expressive & dramatic dance form, is performed to depict religious and mythological stories from the Hindu culture. The detailed makeup of an artist is a part of the representation of the character being played. And the facial expressions are at the very heart of the dance and take years of dedication for one to master.

Following are two images from one such performance at a local theatre in Thekkady, Kerala.