Making their debut in our Ensemble Studio, a distinguished ensemble of Kathakali masters—curated by the acclaimed South Indian dancer Kalamandalam Manoj Kumar and Roshni Pillai, and presented at the invitation of Paul Dresher—offers an unforgettable evening of performance. Through sumptuous costumes, expressive movement, and powerful storytelling, they illuminate epic tales drawn from the Mahābhārata and the Rāmāyana.
Day Two: October 16 – Balivijayam (The Victory of Bali)
Balivijayam written by Kalloor Namboodiripad (1749-1824), is based on an episode from the Ramayana. Sage Narada visits King Ravana and, during their conversation, hints that a particular monkey claims to be unafraid of Ravana and should be subdued. Provoked, Ravana grabs his sword, but Narada tells him it’s unnecessary and leads him to the seashore, where Bali is praying. Bali, recognizing Ravana as his father, Indra’s vanquisher, decides to teach him a lesson. When Ravana tries to capture him, he ends up entangled in Bali’s tail, much to Narada’s amusement. Eventually, Bali mocks Ravana, who apologizes, and they part on friendly terms.