Thotton K. Chandu Panokar

🪔 About

Thotton Karakkadan Chandu Panikkar, born on March 10, 1875, in Trikkarppur, Kerala, India, was a legendary exponent of Kathakali, particularly the Vettattunatu style, which emphasizes pure dance. His early training began with Ottan Thullal under Karivellur Vazhakkodan Kannan Nair at Thazhakkattu Mana. In 1893, he commenced his Kathakali studies with Sri Chamrakulathu Gopala Panikar, subsequently becoming a principal disciple of Guru Tholanoor Valiyathodi Eachra Menon at the same institution. Panikkar made his stage debut as Arjuna in "Subhadra Haranam" and spent twelve years with the Thazhakkattu Mana Kathakali Yogam. Following the demise of Shri Vasudevan Thirumunbu, he briefly led the Varanakkottu Kathakali Yogam. He was renowned for his powerful portrayals of characters such as Bhima, Arjuna, Durvasa, Hanuman, and Daksha. A significant part of his career was dedicated to Kalakshetra, Chennai, where he served as the head of the Kathakali department for sixteen years. He also founded his own school, "Kalakendra," in Bengaluru, where he imparted his knowledge to numerous students, including the acclaimed dancer Ramgopal. Panikkar is credited with advancing the "Kalladikkodan" tradition by incorporating a greater emphasis on "Bhava" (expression) and "Angasuddha" (purity of angas, or body movements). His profound contributions to Indian classical dance were recognized with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship in 1958. He was also honored with the title "Veera Srinkala" and received two gold medals from the Cochin King. Among his notable disciples was Puthiyadathu Krishnan, whom he mentored to become the celebrated Kalamandalam Krishnan Nair. Thotton Karakkadan Chandu Panikkar's legacy continues through his students and his significant influence on the Kathakali tradition. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (1958), Veera Srinkala, Gold Medals.