Kalamandalam Oyoor Ratheesan

🪔 About

Kalamandalam Oyoor Ratheesan is a distinguished Indian Kathakali artist, born on April 3, 1952, in Oyoor, a village in Kerala, India, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and as the birthplace of numerous artists. He hails from a prominent lineage of Kathakali performers, being the son of the highly acclaimed Kathakali artist Oyoor Kochu Govinda Pillai. Ratheesan commenced his journey in Kathakali at the tender age of six, receiving his initial training directly from his father. To further hone his skills and deepen his understanding of this intricate classical dance form, he subsequently joined Kalamandalam, a premier institution for performing arts in Kerala. During his time there, he had the invaluable opportunity to train under the tutelage of the legendary guru, the late Kalamandalam Krishnan Nair, a master known for his profound knowledge and artistry in Kathakali. His dedication and exceptional talent were recognized by the Government of India, which awarded him the prestigious National Scholarship. Kalamandalam Oyoor Ratheesan's professional career took a significant turn in 1984 when he joined Margi, a renowned institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Kerala's traditional performing arts. As a performer, he has graced stages in numerous countries across Europe and Asia, showcasing the beauty and complexity of Kathakali to international audiences. His contributions have solidified his position as a significant figure in the world of Indian classical dance, carrying forward the legacy of his family and his esteemed gurus. He is recognized not only as a performer but also as a torchbearer of the Kathakali tradition, embodying the roles of a teacher and guru through his continued practice and likely transmission of knowledge. Awards & Honours: National Scholarship.