Arun Babu

🪔 About

Dr. Sadanam Arun Babu KB is a prominent Indian classical dance figure, primarily known for his contributions to Kathakali. He is an alumnus of the Sadanam Kathakali Academy, where he pursued his ardent learning of the art form and also obtained a diploma in Kathakali music. Arun Babu is actively involved in research concerning Kathakali music. His talent was recognized early, as he was a winner in Kathakali, Kathakali music, and Ottan Thullal at the 1998 Youth Festival. He has also been a recipient of a Central government fellowship and a CCRT Scholarship in Kathakali. Beyond performing, Dr. Arun Babu is a dedicated teacher and institution head. He serves as the Managing Director of Noopura School of Dance & Music and is also a teaching artist at the Government of Kerala Directorate of Culture. He has shared the jury panel for Kathakali competitions with his father, the esteemed Kalanilayam Balakrishnan. In addition to his classical dance pursuits, Arun Babu is a versatile artist, working as a music producer, director, singer, actor, writer, and anchor, with experience in film. He has also been noted for his musical album 'Ajitha Hare'. In May 2026, he visited the administrative office of CTDS, which plans to offer certification courses in Kathakali and related arts.