The painted and decorated face of a Kathakali dancer at a performance in Trichur, Kerala. Kathakali is the traditional classical drance-drama of South India, originating in the 17th century. The themes are derived from Hindiu mythology, particularly the Ramayana epic. The elaborate makeup, known as Chutty, imnvolves hours of preparation, using paint and rice paste, and is an artform in its own right..