Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its rich cultural and artistic heritage. At the heart of preserving this cultural wealth lies Kerala Kalamandalam, an esteemed institution that has played a pivotal role in promoting and preserving Kerala’s traditional performing arts, particularly Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Koodiyattam. Established in 1930 by the legendary poet and cultural visionary Vallathol Narayana Menon, Kerala Kalamandalam has become synonymous with the vibrant and ancient art forms that define the soul of Kerala.
The Founding of Kerala Kalamandalam
Kerala Kalamandalam was born out of Vallathol Narayana Menon’s deep concern for the declining state of Kerala’s classical arts. In the early 20th century, traditional art forms like Kathakali were in danger of being overshadowed by modern entertainment. Vallathol, a firm believer in the importance of preserving the cultural identity of Kerala, founded Kerala Kalamandalam in the village of Cheruthuruthy, Thrissur, with the goal of reviving these dying art forms. Today, Kerala Kalamandalam stands as a premier institution for classical performing arts, dedicated to the teaching and propagation of Kerala’s ancient cultural traditions.
Kathakali: The Crown Jewel of Kerala Kalamandalam
Perhaps the most celebrated art form nurtured by Kerala Kalamandalam is Kathakali, a classical dance-drama known for its intricate costumes, elaborate facial makeup, and stylized performances. Kathakali is a unique blend of dance, drama, music, and martial arts, where stories from epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana are enacted in a highly stylized manner.
At Kerala Kalamandalam, Kathakali is taught with the utmost dedication, preserving its authenticity while allowing for subtle innovations. The institution offers a comprehensive training program that spans years of rigorous study and practice. Students learn not only the complex movements and expressions required for Kathakali but also the traditional Carnatic music and drumming that accompany the performances.
Kathakali at Kerala Kalamandalam is more than just a performance; it is seen as a spiritual and meditative experience. The detailed facial expressions, known as navarasas, convey deep emotions and are central to the art form. The institution takes great care in teaching students the nuances of these expressions, ensuring that each performance carries the emotional weight and narrative depth that Kathakali is known for.
Mohiniyattam: Grace and Elegance in Dance
Alongside Kathakali, Kerala Kalamandalam is also revered for its role in the preservation of Mohiniyattam, the classical dance form of Kerala. Known for its graceful and lyrical movements, Mohiniyattam, which literally means “the dance of the enchantress,” is characterized by its soft, swaying movements and its focus on feminine grace.
The training in Mohiniyattam at Kerala Kalamandalam emphasizes both the technical and emotional aspects of the dance. Dancers are trained to express deep emotions through delicate facial expressions and fluid body movements, telling stories of love, devotion, and spirituality. Mohiniyattam performances at Kerala Kalamandalam are often accompanied by soulful music, with lyrics primarily in Manipravalam (a combination of Malayalam and Sanskrit), creating a deeply immersive experience.
Koodiyattam: An Ancient Sanskrit Theatre Tradition
Kerala Kalamandalam also holds the distinction of preserving Koodiyattam, one of the world’s oldest theatre traditions. Recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, Koodiyattam is an ancient form of Sanskrit theatre that dates back over 2,000 years. Unlike Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, which focus on dance, Koodiyattam is a highly stylized and ritualistic form of drama, combining elements of acting, dance, and mime.
At Kerala Kalamandalam, Koodiyattam is taught with great reverence. The institution has helped in reviving this unique art form, which had been largely confined to temple performances. The training in Koodiyattam is extensive, requiring years of dedication to master the complex techniques and gestures. The performances are known for their intricate use of mudras (hand gestures) and detailed facial expressions, all of which are meticulously taught to students at Kerala Kalamandalam.
One of the remarkable aspects of Koodiyattam is its use of Chakyar Koothu, a solo narrative performance that accompanies Koodiyattam plays. Kerala Kalamandalam has played a crucial role in ensuring that this aspect of the tradition is kept alive, and the institution regularly hosts performances of Koodiyattam and Chakyar Koothu, helping bring these ancient art forms to modern audiences.
A Center for Learning and Performance
Kerala Kalamandalam is not just a school—it is a cultural sanctuary where students from all over India and the world come to learn the nuances of Kerala’s classical performing arts. The institution offers full-time courses in Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam, and other traditional art forms. The curriculum is intensive and includes both theoretical and practical training. Students are trained by Gurus, or masters, in the traditional Gurukula system, where the relationship between teacher and student is considered sacred.
The campus itself is steeped in the artistic spirit of Kerala. Located on the banks of the Bharatapuzha River, the serene environment provides the perfect setting for learning and practicing the arts. The institution also hosts workshops, seminars, and performances, inviting artists from all over the world to interact and share their knowledge, thus fostering a global dialogue on traditional art forms.
Contributions to the Global Stage
Over the years, Kerala Kalamandalam has produced some of the most renowned artists in India. Many of its alumni have gone on to perform on national and international stages, bringing Kerala’s classical arts to a global audience. The institution regularly participates in cultural exchanges, and its performances are highly regarded both in India and abroad. In addition to training students, Kerala Kalamandalam has a repertory company that travels internationally, showcasing the beauty of Kerala’s performing arts to a global audience.
A Legacy of Preservation and Innovation
While Kerala Kalamandalam is deeply rooted in tradition, it is also open to innovation. The institution encourages experimentation within the bounds of tradition, allowing for new interpretations and modern storytelling techniques to be incorporated into classical performances. This balance between preservation and innovation is one of the reasons Kerala Kalamandalam has remained relevant in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.
The institution is also committed to documenting and archiving the performing arts. It has an extensive collection of manuscripts, recordings, and other materials related to Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam, and other art forms, ensuring that future generations will have access to the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
Conclusion
Kerala Kalamandalam stands as a shining example of how traditional art forms can not only survive but thrive in the modern world. Through its dedication to preserving Kerala’s classical performing arts, particularly Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Koodiyattam, the institution has ensured that these ancient traditions continue to inspire and engage audiences both in India and across the globe.
For anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, Kerala Kalamandalam offers an unparalleled opportunity. It is more than just a center for learning—it is a living testament to the power of art to transcend time, culture, and geography, connecting us all to the deeper stories that define the human experience.
