Margamkali: is a
very ancient and the most popular artistic performance prevalent among the
Syrian Christians of Kerala. The word 'margam'
means 'path' and it was meant for the propagation of Christian religious ideas.
Margamkali is performed mainly by men on festive occasions, especially during
the time of marriage. The dance is performed by 12 members moving in a circle
around a lighted oil lamp. The oil lamp denotes Christ and the dancers
symbolizes his disciples.
The songs of the Margamkali are composed in
modern Malayalam. The dancers sing themselves while performing the dance.
Unlike other dance forms of Kerala, Margamkali lacks musical accompaniment. The
traditional text of the song is an elaboration of the activities and martyrdom
of St. Thomas
Margamkali is often presented as a stage item
today. It is also included as a competition item at the school and college
level.
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