Kesava Poduval

🪔 About

Kalamandalam Kesava Poduval, also known as Trithala Kesava Poduval, was a highly renowned Indian classical percussionist, celebrated as a Chenda maestro and an exponent of Thayambaka, a solo percussion concert style. Born in Anakkara, Palakkad district, he began his musical journey at a young age, showing promise in the Malamakkavu style of Thayambaka, mentored by his father, Kudalil Achutha Poduval. In 1956, he joined Kalamandalam, the premier institution for Kathakali in Cheruthuruthy, to specialize in playing the Chenda for Kathakali, where he trained under illustrious gurus Krishnankutty Poduval and Achunni Poduval. His career included a stint at Muthappan Kaliyogam in Parassini from 1961 to 1963. In 1964, Poduval joined the RLV College of Music and Fine Arts in Tripunithura, where he served for 22 years until his retirement in 1986. During his tenure and after, he groomed numerous talents through private tuitions, ensuring the continuity of Kathakali chenda, tayambaka, and melam traditions. By the mid-1970s, he decided to focus primarily on Kathakali chenda, a move that old-timers considered a gain for Kathakali. Poduval was known for his unruffled conduct and understated chenda-playing, which redefined the aesthetics of the instrument. His students honored him with a documentary titled "NadaKesavam," released in early 2017. He passed away on October 10, 2020, months before his 90th birthday. Awards & Honours: Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi award.