Appukutty Poduval

🪔 About

Kalamandalam Appukutty Poduval (1924–2008) was a legendary maddalam maestro, celebrated for his aesthetically pleasing and powerful taps on the instrument, which is a vital percussion accompaniment for Kathakali, the classical dance-drama from Kerala, South India. A native of the temple town of Thiruvilwamala in Thrissur district, Poduval was a direct disciple of the revered maddalam acharyan Venkichan Swami. His mastery over the maddalam elevated the instrument's status on the Kathakali stage, showcasing exceptional tonal quality and dexterity that added rare effects to Kathakali acting. Poduval, alongside the renowned chenda exponent Kalamandalam Krishnankutty Poduval, ushered in a new era in the acoustics of Kathakali, forming a legendary trio known as 'Kuttitrayam' with Kalamandalam Raman Kutty Nair. Their combined performances were lauded for creating an awe-inspiring stage experience, with Appukutty Poduval's maddalam often described as singing with Parvati's grace, complementing Krishnankutty Poduval's thundering chenda. He served for many years as a maddalam tutor at his alma mater, Kerala Kalamandalam, where he groomed numerous leading maddalam artists. After retiring from Kalamandalam in 1986, he continued to contribute to the art form as a visiting teacher at Sadanam Kathakali Akademi (Gandhi Seva Sadan) near Ottapalam. His profound contributions to Kathakali were widely acknowledged, with Kalamandalam Gopi reportedly describing him as the "Perfect Maddalam Player" Kathakali had ever seen. Awards & Honours: Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award (1973), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2000), Kalamandalam Fellowship, Kalamandalam Award, Pallavoor Appu Marrar Puraskaram.