Jolly M M

🪔 About

Jolly Mathew, also known as Jolly M M, is a renowned Indian classical dancer, choreographer, and guru, recognized for his contributions to both Bharatanatyam and Mohiniyattam. His journey in dance began despite initial familial resistance, leading him to join Kerala Kalalayam, Tripunithura, without his parents' knowledge. He underwent strict training in Bharatanatyam and Mohiniyattam under the revered guru Kalamandalam Kalyanikutty Amma, who was also his mentor. Mathew holds an MA in Bharatanatyam from Kalai Kaveri College of Fine Arts, Trichy (Bharathidasan University), and a BA and MA in Mohiniyattam from RLV College of Music and Dance, Tripunithura (M G University). He also earned Prarambhic and Pravesika Certificates in Bharatanatyam from Gandharva Mandal University, Mumbai. His arangettam (debut performance) took place at the age of 16 at the Thiruvankulam Siva temple. As a choreographer, Jolly Mathew is known for his innovative productions, including the Mohiniyattam presentation of the Bible story of Job, which was telecast by Doordarshan in 1998. Other choreographies include 'Crucifixion of Christ,' 'Mary Magdalene,' 'Abraham's Sacrifice,' and 'Bhathruhari.' A significant achievement in his career was presenting the 108 karanas with slokas of the Natyasastra at the Kerala Fine Arts Hall, Ernakulam. Since 1990, Mathew has been conducting regular classes, attracting students from both India and abroad. He is the director of Swatithirunal Trust in Thiruvankulam, near Tripunithura, where approximately 200 students are currently learning Bharatanatyam and Mohiniyattam. Awards & Honours: Senior Fellowship from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.