Cherpalachery Sivan

🪔 About

Cherpulassery Sivan is a highly celebrated Maddalam artist from Cherpulassery village in central Kerala, India, renowned for his contributions to ethnic ensembles like Panchavadyam and Keli, as well as for his accompaniment in Kathakali performances. Born into a family with a long lineage of legendary Maddalam players, Sivan inherited and continued this rich tradition. His initial training began at the age of eight under his grandfather, Vaalparambil Kunjhan Nair, a famed Maddalam player. After his grandfather's passing, Sivan continued his studies at Sadanam Kathakali Akademi in Peroor, where he was taught Maddalam by Paloor Achuthan Nair. He further honed his skills under Trichur Maniyan Panikkar, learning the Kadavallur School of Maddalam, and later under Kolamangalath Narayanan Nair, with his training spanning a total of 13 years. Throughout his illustrious career, Cherpulassery Sivan has been a prominent accompanist for Kathakali, providing percussive support, particularly for female characters, adapting his playing to the mood and steps of the dancers. He has performed alongside eminent artists such as Kathakali chenda maestro Kalamandalam Krishnankutty Poduval and Kathakali actor Kottakkal Sivaraman. Beyond Kathakali, he is a celebrated performer of Panchavadyam and Keli, a percussive dialogue between chenda and maddalam. Sivan also learned to play Maddalam for Mohiniyattam performances, including tillana, jatiswaram, and allarippu, from dance guru Karimpuzha Achutha Warrier. He is known for his teaching legacy, emphasizing discipline and respect for masters among his students. His son, Kalamandalam Hariharan, has followed in his footsteps as a Maddalam artist. Awards & Honours: Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award (2001), Kerala Kalamandalam Fellowship (2006).