Kalamandalam Barbara Vijayakumar
Kathakali Performer • Teacher
39+
Years of Experience
1
Followers
❖ Guru Parampara ❖
Kalamandalam Govinda Warrier
Guru
Guru
Kalamandalam Barbara Vijayakumar
About
Kalamandalam Barbara Vijayakumar is a pioneering figure in the world of Indian classical dance, renowned as the world's first female and non-Indian Kathakali make-up (chutti) artist. Hailing from Rochdale in the UK, Barbara's journey into Kathakali began serendipitously in 1972 when, while traveling overland to Australia, she accidentally discovered the art…
Journey Timeline
1972
Discovered Kathakali and chutti in Southern India — While traveling overland to Australia, she accidentally found Kathakali after getting off a train at the wrong stop in Kerala.
1974
Began studying chutti at Kerala Kalamandalam — She started her formal training in Kathakali make-up under Govinda Warrior Ashan.
1976
Graduated as the world's first female and non-Indian Kathakali make-up artist — She completed her two-year course and achieved this pioneering status.
1987
Co-founded Kala Chethena Kathakali Company — Established the company in the UK with her husband, Kalamandalam Vijayakumar, to promote Kathakali.
Photo Gallery
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Video Library
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Signature Performances
Signature repertoire pieces will be showcased here.
Performance Map
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Awards & Honors
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Media Coverage
- Kathakali maestro Vijayakumar channels Pahalgam tragedy through dance drama
Mathrubhumi English
- Kathakali
Mayflower Theatre
Dance School
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Students
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Testimonials
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Upcoming Workshops
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