1954-1958

54. Burmah Shell (EBC) — Portrait in Mosaic — Martial Dances of Malabar — 20 min
      The Indian Experiment Series

Documentary on the Martial Dances of Malabar, a region along the west coast of the Indian Peninsula. Film and narrative describe the main industries of the area, which is rich in pepper, ginger, ivory, and timber. The historical background of wars in this area explain the preoccupation with war oriented traditions and expertise in the martial arts. Included are sequences on children taking lessons in the gymnasium; men and women engaged in sword play and other ceremonial arts involving the use of sticks and spears; and battle dances in traditional warrior dress. Massage and exercises play an important part in martial dance and art, and ritualistic worship of the goddess of war is also practiced.