Kalamandalam Easwaran Unni

🪔 About

Kalamandalam Easwaran Unni is a highly respected figure in Indian classical dance, particularly renowned for his mastery of the Mizhavu, a percussion instrument integral to Koodiyattam, the ancient Sanskrit theatre of Kerala. Born in Sreekrishnapuram Village of Palakkad district, his innate talent for rhythm was nurtured through rigorous training at Kerala Kalamandalam. He received guidance from veterans such as Painkulam Rama Chakyar, Padmasree Mani Madhava Chakyar, Padmasree P.K. Narayanan Nambyar, and Unnikrishnan Ilayath master. Easwaran Unni also acquired knowledge of other percussion instruments like Chenda from Achunni Poduval and Chandra Mannadiar, and Timila from Pulapatta Rama Marar and Kongad Vijayan. Easwaran Unni holds a significant position in the history of Koodiyattam as the first non-Nambiar to learn and perform Mizhavu, breaking traditional barriers where the art form and its instruments were exclusive to specific communities. He was also the first non-Nambiar student to receive a scholarship for Mizhavu studies and subsequently became the first non-Nambiar teacher of the instrument at Kerala Kalamandalam. He currently serves as the head of the Mizhavu department at Kerala Kalamandalam, a distinguished center for Indian performing arts and culture. His contributions extend to enhancing the aesthetic quality of Koodiyattam performances and pioneering the independent form of Mizhavil Thayambaka, which he first performed in 1993 at Kalamandalam Koothambalam. His dedication has inspired many successors, and he is recognized for his profound knowledge of the play and context, which allows him to embellish the action for the audience.