Three Nights of Kathakali.
Two Epics. One Timeless Art.
Day Two:
Balivijayam from the Ramayana

Kathakali Mini Festival – October 15, 16 & 17
Experience the grandeur of Kathakali, the classical dance-drama of Kerala, India. Over three evenings, an extraordinary Indian cast at the height of their art will bring to life epic tales from the Mahābhārata and Ramayana with dazzling costumes, vibrant music, and breathtaking storytelling. These world-class artists have performed on some of the greatest stages in India and abroad, and now they bring their mastery to the intimate setting of our West Oakland studio. Up close, you’ll feel the power of the drums, hear every nuance of the singers, and see the fine details of costume and makeup in rare close-up. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness Kathakali at its highest level.

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.

Actors:

Ravana: Kalanilayam Sreejith Sundaran

Narada: Kottakkal Harikumar

Bali: Jishnu Nambudiripad

Singers: Kottakkal Madhu, Sadanam Jyothish Babu,

Percussionists:

Chenda: Kalamandalam Sivadas, Sadanam Jithin

Maddalam: Kalamandalam Venu

Chutti & Costume: Eroor Manoj

FESTIVAL

October 15th, 2025 – 7:30 PM – $35: Subhadraharanam (Abduction of Subhadra)from the epic Mahābhārata [Tickets]

October 17th, 2025 – 7:30 PM – $35: Balivijayam from the epic Ramayana [Tickets]

Festival pass [$90] is available on our ticket page with Eventbrite

Location: Dresher Ensemble Studio, 2201 Poplar Street Oakland, CA United States