Make up & Costuming

“Chutty: The Intricate Art of Kathakali Makeup, Bringing Life to Characters Through Color”.

Chutty (Make-up and costuming)

Chutty is a crucial aspect of Kathakaliwhich involves the intricate and elaborate makeup process used to transform actors into the vivid characters they portray. This meticulous art form is a defining feature of Kathakali and serves not only to enhance the visual impact of the performance but also to convey the nature of the character being depicted. The application of Chutty requires hours of detailed work, using natural materials like rice paste, lime, and various colored pigments. Each character type in Kathakali has a specific Chutty design, which includes vibrant colors and exaggerated facial features, symbolizing their moral disposition and role in the narrative. For instance, noble heroes typically have green faces, demons have red or black faces, and women characters use simpler, more refined makeup. The Chutty artist’s skill is paramount, as it requires precision and an understanding of the traditional iconography and symbolism inherent in Kathkali. This elaborate makeup not only captivates the audience but also aids the actors in fully embodying their roles, enhancing their expressions and gestures, which are central to the storytelling in Kathakali.