Ramachandran Unnithan

🪔 About

Kalamandalam Ramachandran Unnithan is a distinguished Kathakali exponent from Kerala, India, renowned for his mastery of "Thadi" (red beard) characters. Born on March 8, 1951, in Ezhukon Placott House in Kottarakkara, Kollam district, he began his initial Kathakali training under Karithra Vasupillai. He pursued formal education in Kathakali at Kerala Kalamandalam from 1962 to 1971, completing a 6-year Diploma and a 2-year Post Graduate Diploma. During his time at Kalamandalam, he was mentored by eminent gurus such as Kalamandalam Ramankutty Nair, Kalamandalam Gopi, Sadanam Krishnan Kutty, and Vazhenkada Kunju Nair Asan. Unnithan's career spans over five decades, during which he has captivated audiences with his versatile performances, including feminine roles, though he is particularly celebrated for his portrayal of ferocious and villainous characters. His most acclaimed roles include Mannan in Lavanasuravadham and Bharata Malayan in Nizhal Kuth. He is also recognized for his dramatic interpretations of characters like Dussasana. Unnithan has also dedicated himself to teaching, having trained several foreign students in Kathakali. His autobiography, titled "Kachaiyum Mizhukkum," was published in 2015. He currently resides in Vettikattiri in Thrissur district, Kerala. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2016), Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Gurupooja award (2006), HRD Fellowship, Pattikkamthodi Ravunni Menon Award, Kalamandalam Hyderali memorial Kathakali award, Kollam Kathakali Club Award, Kottayam Kaliyarang Award, Alappuzha Kathakali Club Award, Alappuzha Kalakshetram Award, Bombay Keli Award.