What is Kolkali?

Kolkali is a folk art in Northern Kerala and Lakshadweep Island in south India. The name Kolkali derived from two words ‘Kol’ means stick and ‘Kali’ means Play. It is originated in Kerala from the time of Chera Dynasty. It is the popular dance in Lekshadeep Islands. Parichakali or Parichamuttukali and Thacholikali are closely related to the Kolkali. Moreover many of the foot work, body postures and choreography of this folk dance characters are taken from Kalaripayattu. Kolkali dance players move in a circle, then striking small sticks; and keeping the rhythm of songs with special steps. The circle of Kolkali players expands and contracts as the Kolkali dance progress. Accompanying music of Kolkali gradually rises in the pitch and the folk dance reaches the climax. Generally it plays participate by males. Kolkali performed to the accompaniment of music (Vocal). And it consisting of Syllables (meaningless) followed by the songs. The dancers of Kolkali are specially trained as well as often experienced in arts of martial. Commonly this folk conducted during the special functions like feats or marriage.