Kalamandalam Premkumar

🪔 About

Kalamandalam Premkumar is a prominent Kathakali artist dedicated to preserving and promoting the classical dance form. He is the great-nephew of the late Padma Shri Guru Chemancheri Kunhiraman Nair, a revered figure in Kathakali. Premkumar received his foundational training in Kathakali at the esteemed Kerala Kalamandalam, which he joined after completing Class X. Currently, Kalamandalam Premkumar is actively involved in reviving and continuing the legacy of his great-uncle at the Cheliya Kathakali Vidyalayam in Koyilandy. This institution, founded by Guru Chemancheri Kunhiraman Nair 42 years prior to June 2025, offers free Kathakali training to students. Under Premkumar's leadership, the Cheliya Kathakali Vidyalayam has expanded its offerings, training over 300 students in various disciplines related to Kathakali, including Kathakali Sangeetham (music), Chenda, Maddalam, Keralanadanam, and the intricate art of Chutti (Kathakali makeup). The school also embraces a positive change by encouraging more girls to learn Kathakali, an art form traditionally dominated by men. To further promote public familiarity with Kathakali, especially in the Malabar region where its presence in temple festivals is diminishing, the school organizes an annual Kathakali Padana Shibiram (Kathakali learning workshop) during April and May. The Union government provides financial assistance to the school, highlighting its cultural significance.