Cholkettu

Malayalam

The invocatory opening item of Mohiniyattam.

RepertoireMohiniyattam

Meaning

Cholkettu opens a Mohiniyattam recital, setting rhythmic syllables to movement and offering salutation before the expressional items follow. Its gentle, swaying quality — the lasya grace the form is known for — is established here.

Related words

AlarippuThe opening item — the body unfolding, like a flower.MargamThe traditional order of a Bharatanatyam recital.PadamA slow expressional piece, usually of love or devotion.ShabdamThe first item with lyrics, where expression enters.MangalacharanThe invocatory opening of an Odissi recital.MokshaThe concluding Odissi item, dance as release.

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