Kathakali has for long been the cultural face of Kerala. It is an ancient classical art form practiced by a few people after devoted and strenuous studies. Whenever Kerala is mentioned, Kathakali is portrayed as its face and the Government also takes enthusiastic steps to promote the art form to boost Tourism. 

But it is a sad fact that many of the artists, especially those who work behind the scenes are poorly paid and do not earn enough to sustain themselves during hard times. November to June is the main season for Kathakali in Kerala due to the numerous festivals. It is during this time that these artists usually get to earn something.

In 2020 due to the Covid 19 Pandemic, nearly all festivals from March have been dropped and this has affected the earnings of these artists and many of them are in dire straits. If this continues, many of them would be pushed to the brink of poverty. It is a shame, that in a State where we pride ourselves on projecting Kathakali, it's artists are on the brink of poverty.

This Petition is to request the Government of Kerala through its Chief Minister, Minister of Culture and Minister of Tourism to do something to help these artists financially in order to alleviate their poverty immediately.