Chandu Panikkar

🪔 About

Thotton Karakkadan Chandu Panikkar, born on March 10, 1873, in Trikkarppur (North Malabar), Kerala, was a legendary exponent of Kathakali, particularly known for the "Vettattunatu" tradition which emphasizes pure dance. He passed away on January 16, 1969, in Kunhimangalam, Kerala, at the age of 97. Panikkar began his dance journey with "Ottan Thullal" under Karivellur Vazhakkodan Kannan Nair. He then commenced his Kathakali training in 1893 with Chamrakulathu Gopala Panikar, before becoming the chief student of Guru Tholanoor Valiyathodi Eachra Menon at "Thazhakkattu Mana." He was also a prominent exponent of the Kalladikkadan tradition, known for its emphasis on 'Bhava' (expression) and 'Angasuddha' (purity of limb movements). His career saw him perform widely, making his stage debut as Arjuna in "Subhadra Haranam." He was associated with "Thazhakkattu Mana Kathakali Yogam" for twelve years and later led the `Varanakkottu` Kathakali Yogam and the Kathakali group of "Vatakkancheri Valiya Mana," performing for the Cochin Maharajas in Thrissur. Chandu Panikkar served as the Head of the Kathakali Department at the world-renowned Kalakshetra in Chennai for sixteen years, significantly contributing to its legacy. He was celebrated for his powerful portrayals of characters such as Bhima, Arjuna, Durvasa, Hanuman, and Daksha. Even at 85, he performed "Kailasodharanam" of Ravana in "Balivijayam" at the Presidential Awards in 1958, and continued dancing until nearly his death, performing at age 93. Awards & Honours: Veera Srinkala (1903), Gold Medals from the Cochin King, Veer Srinkala and Kesabharam Kireetam from the Association of Namboothiris, National Sangeet Natak Academy Award (1958).