Nelluvaya Narayanan Nair

🪔 About

Kalamandalam Narayanan Nair, affectionately known as Nelloovai, was a renowned Kathakali Maddalam maestro and an influential teacher of Indian classical percussion. He passed away on April 25, 2025, at Amala Hospital in Thrissur, Kerala, due to age-related ailments. An early and distinguished disciple of the legendary Kalamandalam Appukutty Poduval, Narayanan Nair developed an uncompromising, disciplined, and distinctive style of Maddalam playing that set him apart from his contemporaries. His mastery of the Maddalam, a barrel-shaped percussion instrument integral to Kathakali, was characterized by precision, depth, and an innate understanding of the intricate rhythms of the dance-drama. Throughout his illustrious career, Narayanan Nair served as a dedicated teacher for many years at prominent institutions such as the Unnayi Warrier Smaraka Kalanilayam in Irinjalakuda and the Kerala Kalamandalam. His commitment to propagating the art form extended beyond teaching, as he co-founded the Sree Dhanwanthari Kalakshetram in Nelluvai with his wife, Kalamandalam Devaki. Kalamandalam Devaki, herself an accomplished Ottan Thullal artist, had passed away two years prior to his demise. Together, they mentored countless students, fostering the next generation of classical artists. Narayanan Nair was a true ambassador of Indian classical percussion, taking his artistry to over 50 countries, including the United States, European nations, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, showcasing the rich heritage of Kathakali to global audiences. His last recorded public performance was at the Kottakkal Viswambhara Temple Festival. In recognition of his profound contributions to Kathakali and Indian classical arts, he was honored with several prestigious accolades, including the Kerala Kalamandalam Award and the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award, in addition to numerous awards from various Kathakali clubs. He is survived by his children, Prasad and Praseeda. His legacy as a performer, teacher, and institution builder continues to inspire generations of Kathakali artists, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Indian classical dance and music. Awards & Honours: Kerala Kalamandalam Award, Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award, Awards from Kathakali clubs.