Kerala International Folk Festival concludes with vibrant blend of folk and global arts

Music, movement and storytelling marked the grand finale of the Kerala International Folk Festival at the Police Parade Ground in Thiruvananthapuram.

Inaugurated on Thursday, the festival organised by the Kerala Folklore Academy concluded on Monday, bringing together a wide spectrum of folk traditions from across India along with performances by artists from six foreign countries.

The final day featured several notable performances, including Seethakali, a traditional Kerala art form known for its expressive gestures, stylised movements and narrative depth.

Another highlight was Mangalam Kali, a ritualistic folk performance characterised by synchronised steps and ceremonial rhythm, reflecting the rich diversity of Kerala’s cultural heritage.

Adding an international flavour to the celebrations, foreign troupes presented a range of global art forms. A Russian ballet performance emerged as one of the major attractions, drawing large audiences to the venue.

Visitors noted that the festival provided a rare opportunity to experience diverse folk and classical traditions on a single platform.

While attendance was moderate during the initial days, footfall increased significantly over the weekend.