Velinezhi K. Nanu Nayar

🪔 About

Velinezhi K. Nanu Nayar was an eminent Indian classical dance figure, renowned for his mastery of Kathakali. Born in 1910 in Vellinezhi village, Palakkad district, Kerala, he hailed from a family of celebrated Kathakali masters. His father, Kariattil Koppan Nayar, a leading exponent of the Kalluvazhi school of Kathakali, was his primary guru and initiated him into the art form at the age of eleven. Nanu Nayar began his Kathakali career by performing female roles. However, he later gained significant fame for his powerful portrayal of "chuvanna tati" (red beard) characters, which are typically formidable and frightening. His notable performances in this category included roles such as Bali, Trigarta, Kali, Kalakeya, Bakasura, Jarasandha, Dussasana, and Virabhadra. He also excelled in "karutta tati" (black beard) roles like Kattala, and "kari" (black) characters such as Nakratundi and Simhika, where his blood-soaked makeup and costumes for wounded demonesses were particularly fearsome. Throughout his career, Velinezhi K. Nanu Nayar traveled extensively, performing across India and internationally with prestigious troupes, including the Kerala Kalamandalam. Beyond his performing career, he dedicated himself to teaching, sharing his vast experience at esteemed institutions such as Kerala Kalamandalam and P.S.V. Natya Sangam. He also served as a Kathakali teacher at Vellinezhy High School from 1950 until his retirement in 1970. For his significant contributions to Kathakali, he was honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1973. He passed away on August 30, 1987. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1973), Veera Shrinkhala.