Kuroor Cheriya Vasudevan Namboothiry

🪔 About

Kuroor Cheriya Vasudevan Namboothiry, affectionately known as 'Midukkan', is a renowned Kathakali chenda (percussion) artist from Kerala, India. Born in 1948, he followed in the footsteps of his father, Kuroor Valiya Vasudevan Namboothiri, who was also a Kathakali artist. His initial training in Kathakali chenda was under the noted performer Kalamandalam Krishnankutty Pothuval. He further honed his skills in 'thayambaka', 'keli', and 'Kathakali chenda' from Ayamkudi Kuttappa Marar between 1960 and 1964. In 1972, Namboothiry pursued higher studies at Kerala Kalamandalam, where he specialized in 'Kathakali melam' under the tutelage of esteemed gurus such as Kalamandam Ramankutty Nair, Pallassana Chandra Mannadiyar, and Kalamandalam Achunni Pothuval. Namboothiry's debut performance in 'thayambaka' took place at the Kumaranalloor Devi Temple in 1961. He began performing as a drummer in Kathakali performances in 1963 and subsequently performed alongside his guru, Kalamandalam Krishnankutty Pothuval, in numerous Kathakali productions. Over his career spanning more than 65 years, he has showcased his mastery of the art form on stages across India and internationally. He is recognized for developing unique playing techniques focused on theatricality and is credited with introducing the use of plastic thread instead of fiber coir for tying chenda drums, a practice now widely adopted by other artists. Kuroor Vasudevan Namboothiry remains an active figure in the field of Kathakali. Awards & Honours: Kalapuraskaram (2025), Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award (2015).