Kerala has a distinct, diverse, cultural and religious background. The state has shown amazing religious liberty to all types of faiths and communities from the very beginning. This tolerance towards cultural values that has persisted through the ages has been a unique and remarkable feature of the state.

In its totality, the culture of Kerala represents a spectrum of the collective achievements of the people spanning a wide range of aspects such as language & literature, art & history, religion & philosophy, architecture & spirituality, economy & social welfare, education & learning etc.

The Kerala culture has been influenced by its history at different periods of time. Kerala is a land of legends, myths and folklore. The very origin of the state is linked to a legend according to which, sage Parasuram, believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, carved out the land mass from the ocean depths with his axe. 

A majority of the people of Kerala are Dravidians, who also inhibit most of the southern part of India. Hinduism is the principal religion with considerable percentages of Muslims and Christians. The craftsmen of Kerala here can pick up the humblest and meanest bits of material and imbue them with magical mastery. 

Woodcarving is the most important of craft forms that this state has developed. Kathakali is a 300-year-old dance form developed exclusively in Kerala combining the performing art forms of opera, ballet, masque, and pantomime. The dance is a beautiful blending of color, dance, music, drama, and expressions. 

In a sense, a lot of the fame that the state has gained is mainly due to the popularity of this dance form. Other dance forms of Kerala are Krishnanattom, Mohiniyattom, Thullal, Koodiyattom, Kolkkali, Thiruvathirakali, Kakkarishi Natakom, Oppanna, and Chavittunatakom. Panchavadyam, Nadanpattu, Omanathinkal Kidavo and many more music forms have evolved over the centuries in Kerala. 

Onam is a time for sports and festivities and in Kerala-where one third of the area is low lying, covered with canals, lakes, and backwaters-the people take to their boats and country crafts to celebrate. Christmas is another festival that is celebrated with much vigor and enthusiasm in the state. Other important festivals of Kerala are Eid, Muharram, and other festivals that are traditionally celebrated all over the country. 

Enjoy Your Culture Tourism in Kerala......

Thrissur Hotels, Resorts and Homestays - Kerala, India