Kalamandalam Ramachandran

🪔 About

Kalamandalam Ramachandran Unnithan is a distinguished Kathakali exponent from Kerala, India, celebrated for his versatile portrayal of ferocious and villainous characters, particularly "red beard" (chuvanna thadi) roles. Born on March 8, 1951, in Ezhukon Placott House in Kottarakkara, Kollam district, to Vasu Pillai and Gomathiamma, his initial exposure to Kathakali was accidental when his father took him for basic training under Kareepra Vasu Pillai. He pursued formal education in Kathakali at the renowned Kerala Kalamandalam, where he studied from 1962 to 1975. He completed an eight-year training program, including a six-year Diploma and a two-year Post Graduate Diploma, by 1971 and 1975 respectively. During his time at Kalamandalam, he received instruction from eminent gurus such as Vazhenkada Kunju Nair Asan, Kalamandalam Ramankutty Nair, Kalamandalam Gopi, and Sadanam Krishnan Kutty. His maiden performance on stage occurred at the age of 12 in 1963. Unnithan has dedicated over five decades to the art form, gaining a significant fan base for his dramatic and expressive performances. He is particularly known for his expertise in "Thadi" characters, a focus advised by his mentor Sadanam Krishnan Kutty. His popular roles include Mannan in Lavanasuravadham and Bharata Malayan in Nizhal Kuth. He has toured extensively, performing in numerous countries including the US, England (for 12 consecutive years), France, Russia, Canada, and West Asian nations, and almost all states in India. He has also trained several foreign students in Kathakali. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2016), Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Gurupooja award (2006), HRD Fellowship, Pattikkamthodi Ravunni Menon Award, Kalamandalam Hyderali memorial Kathakali award (2012), Award from Kollam Kathakali Club, Award from Kottayam Kaliyarang, Award from Alappuzha Kathakali Club, Award from Alappuzha Kalakshetram, Award from Bombay Keli.