In Awe of The Villain

Aragam SINDHU

India

Here he comes, in an invigorated dance and dynamic rhythm, mace in hand, his skirts swishing and swaying as he twirls and turns about the stage, an expression full of rage visible even through the painted face, inciting a collective gasp from the audience!
Characterized by the painted faces and elaborate costumes, a dance form of South India, is used to tell mythological stories of the triumph of good over evil. The performance begins, but what the audience is eagerly awaiting is the entry of the demon. The Bannada Vesha (The Colourful Disguise), the demon’s elaborate costume and painted face is designed to incite horror and fear in the audience!