P. K. Kunju Kurup
Kathakali Performer
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About
P. K. Kunju Kurup (also known as Guru Kunju Kurup or Kunchu Kurup) was a legendary Indian classical dancer and guru of Kathakali, born in 1881 in Thakazhi village, Alappuzha district, Kerala, India. He began his rigorous training in Kathakali at the age of 13 under his maternal uncles Kochappi Panikker and Rama Panikker, making his debut performance in…
Journey Timeline
1881
Born — Born in Thakazhi village, Alappuzha district, Kerala.
1893
Began Kathakali training and debut performance — Initiated into Kathakali at age 13 by his uncles Kochappi Panikker and Rama Panikker.
1910
Marriage — Married Sridevi Amma and settled near Palakkad.
1914
Teaching stint in Madras — Served as a Kathakali guru in Madras (Chennai).
1931
Appointed Chief Preceptor at Kerala Kalamandalam — Invited by Vallathol Narayana Menon to join the newly founded institution.
1943
Teaching stint in Bangalore — Served as a Kathakali guru in Bangalore.
1948-1952
Taught at Chembakassery Natana Kalamandalam — Taught in Ambalappuzha, his home territory.
1956
Received Sangeet Natak Akademi Award — Awarded for his contributions to Kathakali.
1965
Received Padma Shri — Awarded by the Government of India.
1967
Received Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship — Recognized for his lifelong contributions to dance-drama.
1970
Passed away
1970
Documentary released — A documentary titled "Guru Kunju Kurup - Name to Remember" was made about him.
1971
Received Padma Bhushan — Awarded posthumously by the Government of India.
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Video Library
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Signature Performances
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Awards & Honors
- 1956 · Sangeet Natak Akademi Award — Sangeet Natak Akademi
- 1967 · Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship — Sangeet Natak Akademi
- 1965 · Padma Shri — Government of India
- 1971 · Padma Bhushan — Government of India
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