Margamkali
Margamkali is a folk art performed by the Syrian Christian community of Kerala (especially the Knanaya sect), particularly in Kottayam and Thrissur districts. The word margam means path or religion. The theme of the margamkali performance is the activities and travels of Mar Thoma (St Thomas) in the Malabar region and his martyrdom.
Earlier margamkali used to be performed only by men, but now women also perform this dance. It is now popular as part of Syrian Christian weddings as well as on stage as part of cultural programmes and school/college competitions. The men's costumes used to be simple – mundu (dhothi worn in the South Indian style) with gold border and a head cloth. With women entering the performances, traditional Christian jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, anklets, etc. are also being worn.