Three Nights of Kathakali.
Two Epics. One Timeless Art.
Day One:
Subhadra Haranam from the Mahābhārata

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.

Kathakali in a Nutshell   [read more]

Subhadra Haranam (Abduction of Subhadra) was written by Mandredath Namboothiripad (1851-1906). This story is based on Mahābhārata. The story of Subhadra Haranam is a chain of events that leads to Arjuna’s marriage with Subhadra (Krishna’s Younger sister). Arjuna broke a vow and went on a year-long pilgrimage, during which he fell in love with Krishna’s sister, Subhadra. Disguised as a saint, he stayed at Dwaraka. With Krishna’s help, he eloped with Subhadra while Balarama was away, knowing Balarama wouldn’t approve the marriage.

After his return, Balarama learns that Arjuna, disguised as a saint, abducted Subhadra with Krishna’s support. Furious, he confronts Krishna and threatens to kill Arjuna. Krishna tries to calm him with logic and finally reminds him that killing Arjuna would make Subhadra a widow. Realizing this, Balarama agrees to visit the couple. On the way, Krishna shows him Arjuna’s battlefield skills, which impress Balarama. He ultimately accepts Arjuna as his brother-in-law, bringing the story to a peaceful end.

Our 2025 Kathakali Ensemble   [read more]

Actors:

Balarama: Peesappilli Rajeev

Krishna: Kalamandalam Manoj

Singers: Sadanam Jyothish Babu, Jishnu Nambudiripad

Percussionists:

Chenda: Kalamandalam Sivadas, Sadanam Jithin

Maddalam: Kalamandalam Venu

Chutti & Costume: Eroor Manoj, Kalanilayam Sreejith Sundaran

Length : 90 min

FESTIVAL

October 16th, 2025 – 7:30 PM – $35: Balivijayam from epic Ramayana [Tickets]

October 17th, 2025 – 7:30 PM – $35: Kalyana Sougandhikam from epic Mahābhārata [Tickets]

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

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