CULTURE

THE CULTURE OF KERALA

Kerala’s culture is mainly Hindu in origin, deriving from a greater Tamil-
heritage region known as Tamilakam. Later, Kerala's culture was elaborated
on through centuries of contact with overseas cultures. The 
culture of Kerala has developed over the past millennia,
influences from other parts of India and abroad. It is
defined by its antiquity and the organic continuity
sustained by the Malayali People.

- Native performing arts include koodiyattam, kathakali
and its offshoot Kerala Natanam, mohiniattam
(dance of the enchantress), and much more.

Kathakali
Other arts are more religion and tribal
themed. These include chavittu nadakom, 
Oppana (originally from Malabar),
which combines dance, rhythmic hand
clapping, and ishal vocalisations.

Many of these art forms largely Thirayattam

play to tourists or at youth festivals.

Several ancient ritualised arts are Keralite in origin; these include

‘kalaripayattu’ whereas other ritual arts include :
Thirayattam, theyyam, poorakkali and Kuthiyottam. 

Thirayattam is a ritual performing folk art form of South Malabar region in

Kerala. It is a vibrant art form blend of dance, music, theatre, satire, facial &
body painting, masking, martial art and ritualistic function.
CULTURE OF HIMACHAL
PRADESH
Himachal Pradesh, was one of the few states that
had remained largely untouched by external customs,
largely due to its difficult terrain. With the technological

advancements, the state has changed very rapidly.

Himachal Pradesh is a multireligional, multicultural as

Himachali Caps well as multilingual state like other Indian states. Some
of the most commonly spoken languages are Hindi and
the various Pahari languages.  

Himachal is well known for its handicrafts. The carpets, leather works, shawls,
paintings, metalware, woodwork and paintings are worth appreciating. Pashmina
shawl is one of the products which is highly in demand not only in Himachal but all
over the country. Himachali caps are also famous art work of the people.
Local music and dance reflects the
cultural identity of the state. Through
their dance and music, they entreat
their gods during local festivals and
other special occasions. Shimla Summer Festival

Apart from the fairs and festivals that are celebrated all over India, there are number
of other fairs and festivals, including the temple fairs in nearly every region that are
of great significance to Himachal Pradesh.

The day to day food of Himachalis is very similar to the rest of the north India. They
too have lentil, broth, rice, vegetables and bread. As compared to other states in north
India non-vegetarian cuisine is more preferred.