Kathakali is the theatrical tradition that dates back to the 17th century and is currently the most important dance-drama in Kerala (a state in southern India). The famous center where this art form is performed is Kerala Kathakali Center (established in 1990 in Kochi) and describes itself as. This center has seen shows broadcast by the BBC, National Geographic and Discovery Channel, which proves its high reputation. Kerala, the region referred to as the birthplace of Kathakali, the word Kathakali is literally translated as "Story Play" and this form of theater is known for its intricate makeup and costumes. Other than that, the only themes explored are those centered on religion. Kathakali, the plots explored in the plays are based on the Mahabharata, the Ramayana and the Puranas (ancient scriptures); these Kathakali performances communicated through hand gestures known as "mudras" (symbolic hand gestures which are used throughout the entire Kathakali performance to represent emotions or actions of the deities in the work and an example of which can be seen in the following image) as no dialogue is used by the artists. The only words spoken are those of the background musicians who sing during the show. Kathakali plays and performances are still relevant in today's society as their main purpose was to reveal how human relationships, although great, can also fail. Beyond that, the stories showed humans' endless need to reach a high level of spirituality. Becoming a Kathakali artist is not an easy task; on average they train for a period of 7-15 years and also attend specialized schools for this training. One source presents the extent of their training: Skills such as mudras, characters, etc...... half of the paper. .....amazing at the finished product. For Barbara Vijayakumar: In conclusion, makeup and costume work as important elements in the creation and presentation of the character of Daksha in the Kathakali play, “Daksha Yaga”. In this theatrical style, makeup and costume are just as important as mudras and the musical accompaniment of singers and drummers; they provide an insight into Hindu culture and its traditional stories. Being a heroic Paccha character, Daksha is a "green face", meaning that the color scheme for his costume is predominantly red, orange and white and the face color used on him would be green. Her petticoat, skirt and headpiece reflect her royalty as a "god" and allow the audience to feel her presence once she takes the stage. Despite the heaviness of the various costumes, they make the show unique.