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At a time when classical dance forms
reigned supreme, Kerala witnessed a renaissance that ultimately took the masses
to a new form of simple and highly entertaining art form. And the reason, a man
called Kalakkathu Kunchan Nambiar hailing from the present day Lakkidi in the
District of Palakkad, and his art form 'Thullal'.
This popular art form
of Kerala, today is enjoyed for its performance style, that is simple in
presentation, easy to comprehend, and above all the stories that are taken up
for performance, usually have a direct or indirect reference to the prevailing
social, political and economic scenario of the land.
As a fitting tribute
to the stalwart Kunchan Nambiar, his ancestral house at Killikurissimangalam in
Lakkidi was turned into a memorial in 1976. It now houses a training centre for
different forms of 'Thullal' viz. Ottan, Seethankan and Parayan.
The
centre established in 1976 is affiliated to the Cultural Department of
Government of Kerala. Students interested in undergoing training in 'Thullal'
can do so by joining a three-year course at the centre. Besides training in
Thullal, the centre also conducts courses in Sanskrit, and also in mastering the
Mridangam.
The centre has a library and an auditorium for conducting
cultural and literary programmes. Every year, on May 5th, the centre holds
special programmes to celebrate 'Kunchan Day.' Special programmes are also held
on the days of Vidyarambham and Vijayadasami.
Artists working in the
centre also perform inside and outside the state. The centre attracts several
visitors that include those with interest in art, culture, literature and
visitors from abroad. The centre is also taking efforts to publish a compendium
of Kunchan Nambiar's literary
works.
Address:
Secretary
Mahakavi Kunchan Nambiar
Smarakam
Killikurissimangalam
Lakkidi, Palakkad Dt.
Kerala - 679
301
