The Kerala State Kathakali Award, Pallavur Appu Marar Vadya Puraskaram, and Keraleeya Nritta-Natya Puraskaram for 2023 were announced by Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi under the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Kerala.
These prestigious awards honor veteran exponents of Kerala’s classical performing arts, preserving and promoting traditional forms like Kathakali, Koodiyattam, and temple percussion.
Awardees & Contributions
1. State Kathakali Award (2023)
- Kuroor Vasudevan Namboothiri – Excellence in Chenda (percussion instrument integral to Kathakali).
- Kalamandalam Sankara Warrier – Mastery in Maddalam (barrel-shaped percussion instrument used in Kathakali).
Significance: Kathakali, Kerala’s world-famous dance-drama, relies heavily on percussion for rhythm, mood, and dramatic effect.
2. Pallavur Appu Marar Vadya Puraskaram
- Mattannur Sankarankutty Marar – Legendary Chenda maestro, celebrated for complex rhythmic compositions and major contributions to temple festival arts.
Note: The Chenda is a cylindrical drum used in Kathakali, Theyyam, and temple rituals.
3. Keraleeya Nritta-Natya Puraskaram
- Kalamandalam P.N. Girijadevi – Lifetime contribution to Koodiyattam, the 2000-year-old Sanskrit theatre tradition.
Significance:
- Koodiyattam – Recognized by UNESCO (2001) as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
- Known for elaborate gestures, facial expressions, and slow, stylized acting.
Award Objectives
- Preserve & Promote Kerala’s traditional performing arts.
- Encourage youth participation in classical arts.
- Provide financial aid & recognition to veteran artists.
- Strengthen cultural identity and heritage pride.
Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi
- Established: 1958
- Headquarters: Thrissur, Kerala.
- Purpose: Promote music, dance, theatre, and allied performing arts in Kerala.
Kathakali
- Origin: Kerala, 17th century.
- Features: Storytelling through mudras (hand gestures), facial expressions, elaborate costumes, and makeup.
- Themes: Based on epics Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas.
Koodiyattam
- Meaning: “Acting together” (Kutiyattam).
- Language: Primarily Sanskrit, with some Prakrit.
- Status: UNESCO-recognized heritage art form.
Pallavur Appu Marar
- Legendary Chenda exponent from Kerala; known for his mastery in temple percussion ensembles.