Kottarakkara Kathakali Museum, Kollam (Quilon), Kerala India

Kottarakkara Kathakali Museum is a museum which is established in memory of the father of Kathakali named Kottarakkara Thampuran. This museum is dedicated to the art form called Kathakali and various models of Kathakali are kept here for exhibition. The other exhibits include models of Kathakali, costumes, ornaments, musical equipments and sculptures of kathakali, costumes and models of dance forms such as Mohiniyattom and other dance forms etc.

Kottarakkara Kathakali Museum is the major attraction of kollam. It is located in the Kollam district that was built as the memorial of the father of Kathakali, Kottarakkara Thampuran. In this museum, an array of collection of antiques, ornaments, models of Kathakali, costumes, ornaments, musical equipments and sculptures of kathakali, costumes and models of dance forms. Kottarakkara is a village in the state of Kerala that lies 27 km to the east of Kollam. It is found 18 km to the west of Punalur on National Highway 208/220. It is also known as the headquarters of Kottarakkara Block and Taluk including six panchayaths.

The museum is totally inspired with a highly stylized classical Indian dance-drama. This form is noted for its unique make-ups, their colourful costumes, refined gestures and well-defined body moments. These are properly presented with the tune of anchor playback music in feature dramas. This concept was originated in the 17th century AD. After many years, it has updated with better looks, sophisticated gestures and added themes as well as more ornate singing and precise drumming.

Kottarakkara Thamburan Kathakali Museum, is a museum dedicated to Kottarakkara Thamburan the father of the Kathakali. In this museum you can see various models of the dance form, the ornaments used in the dance and unique musical instruments.