The eye makeup in Kathakali, the classical dance form from Kerala, plays a crucial role in conveying the character's emotions and personality.
Some of the key elements of Kathakali eye make-up are:
Colours: The colours used in Kathakali facial makeup are symbolic, and represent different emotions and characters. For instance, green is often used for nobility and virtue; red is associated with anger, passion, and violence; blue symbolizes wisdom and knowledge; and black represents darkness or evil.
The patterns drawn on the eyes also convey specific meanings. For example, certain patterns indicate a character's age, social stature, or marital status.
The eye makeup in Kathakali is designed to enhance and enhance facial expressions. Through the use of colours and patterns, the dancer can convey a wide range of emotions from joy to sorrow, anger to peace.
The application of Kathakali eye makeup is a complex process that requires skill and precision. It involves using a variety of brushes and pigments to create intricate designs and patterns.