Kalamandalam Kesavan

🪔 About

Kalamandalam Kesavan (born May 18, 1936, in Peringode, Palakkad; died April 25, 2009, in Elamakkara, Kochi) was a distinguished Indian Kathakali artist, widely recognized as a versatile percussionist, prolific playwright, and accomplished actor. His journey in the classical arts began with initial training in percussion under his uncle, Neettiyath Govindan Nair. He further refined his skills in Kathakali "melam" (percussion ensemble) under the tutelage of stalwarts such as Moothamana Kesavan Namboodiri and Thiruvallwamala Venkinchan Swamy at Poomully Mana in Palakkad district. In 1954, Kesavan enrolled at the prestigious Kerala Kalamandalam, where he underwent rigorous training in Kathakali under the guidance of esteemed masters like Kalamandalam Krishnankutty Poduval and Appunni Poduval. After graduating, he contributed his talents as a performer to various institutions, including Kala Sadanam in Chunangad and RLV Institute in Thripunithura. A significant part of his career was dedicated to teaching; he served for three decades as a chenda master at F.A.C.T Kathakali School in Aluva, imparting his knowledge to a new generation of artists. Beyond his performing and teaching roles, Kesavan was a notable playwright, having authored more than 40 short plays and poems specifically for Kathakali. His notable directorial works include the Kathakali "Sreekrishnaavatharam," and he was also working on "Kirathasoonucharitham." His expertise extended to performing various Kathakali character types, including "Minukku," "Pacha," "Kathi," and "Thadi." He was also recognized for his contributions to enhancing Kathakali Sangeetham. Later in his life, Kesavan ventured into Malayalam cinema, making his film debut in G. Aravindan's "Marattam" in 1988. He subsequently appeared in numerous films and television serials, gaining popularity for roles in movies such as "Kathanayakan" and "Vanaprastham." His artistic and literary contributions were honored with several accolades, including the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award in 1997, the Kerala Kalamandalam Award, the Kala Sahithya Academy Award for his poem collection 'Thenthulli', the Ravunni Menon Memorial Award, and the N.K. Pisharadi Award. He passed away at the age of 73. Awards & Honours: Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award (1997), Kerala Kalamandalam Award, Kala Sahithya Academy Award (for Thenthulli), Ravunni Menon Memorial Award, N.K. Pisharadi Award.