culture

Kerala is rich in its cultural diversity; with people from different communities and religions – the Hindus, the Muslims and the Christians all living together. The culture of Kerala is a composite and cosmopolitan culture and several people and races have made their significant contributions to it. The main cultural events are Onam festival, Id and Christmas. Some of the other major cultural events include the Temple festival at Thrissur called the Thrissur Pooram and the annual Snake Boat races at Alappuzha.

There are several performing arts that form part of the culture of Kerala. The spectacular visual effects and stunning music are hallmarks of Kerala's performing arts. The classical and ritual arts of Kerala have always enjoyed a rich patronage, from the former kings who ruled the state in the past to the latter day governments.

The cultural heritage of Kerala is also revealed in its varied dance forms, martial arts and cuisine. Some of the popular performing arts in Kerala include Kathakali, Mohiniattam, Kalaripayattu, Theyyam, Thiruvathirakali, Kaikotikalli, Ottamthullal, Krishnanattom, Koodiyattom, Kolkkali, Chakyar Koothu, Oppana, Mappila Paattu, Kolkali, Duff Muttu, Margam Kali and Chavittunadakam. Kerala is also known for its varied martial arts which include Kalaripayattu, Parisa Kali, Velakali, etc.

Thus it can be said that the culture of Kerala is the embodiment of the collective achievements of its people in the fields of religion and philosophy, language and literature, art and architecture, education and economic and social organisation.