Kalamandalam Vijayakrishnan

🪔 About

Kalamandalam Vijayakrishnan, born on December 12, 1960, is a distinguished Indian classical percussionist, primarily known for his mastery of the Chenda, an integral accompaniment to Kathakali and other traditional art forms of Kerala. His initial training in Chenda began under the tutelage of his father, the late Kalamandalam Krishnan Kutty Poduval. In 1974, he formally joined the esteemed Kerala Kalamandalam as a Chenda student, where he further honed his skills under renowned maestros such as Kalamandalam Achunni Poduval, Pallassana Chandra Mannadiar, and his father, who was then a professor at the institution. Following his studies at Kerala Kalamandalam, Vijayakrishnan received additional training from the late Kottakkal Kuttan Marar at PSV Natya Sangham, gaining valuable stage experience. He also undertook special training in "Thayampaka" under the late Thrithala Kesava Poduval and in temple performances (Kshetrakala) of Chenda and Edakka from Shri Karimpuzha Gopi Poduval and Rama Poduval, establishing himself as an exponent in these percussive arts. His career has seen him participate in numerous Kathakali and other classical dance programs across India and internationally, both individually and as part of the Kalamandalam troupe, where his accompaniment is noted for its unique ease and perfect grace. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor (Chenda) at Kerala Kalamandalam. In 2019, he was honored with the Kerala Kalamandalam award for Chenda. Vijayakrishnan is also recognized for his teaching, having successfully prepared a French student, Mr. Olivia alias Krishnachandran, for a full-fledged Chenda Arangettam within a short period. Awards & Honours: Kerala Kalamandalam Award (Chenda) (2019).