Ramakrishnan Nair V P

🪔 About

V.P. Ramakrishnan Nair, a distinguished figure in Indian classical dance, was a renowned Kathakali performer and teacher. Born on April 4, 1937, in Koottanad, Palakkad District, Kerala, India, to K. Padmanabhan Nair and Sreedevi Amma, he dedicated his life to the art form. He underwent rigorous training in Kathakali for 12 years under the traditional gurukula system after completing his high school education. His esteemed gurus included Natyacharya Thekkinkattil Ravunni Nair, Kunchu Nair, and Kochugovindanaasan, who shaped his profound understanding and mastery of Kathakali. Throughout his career, spanning three decades, V.P. Ramakrishnan Nair served as both a performer and a teacher, contributing significantly to the propagation and evolution of Kathakali. He was associated with several prominent cultural institutions, including 'Darpana' in Ahmedabad, the International Kathakali Centre in New Delhi, and Gandhi Seva Sadanam in Perur. He also taught at numerous Kathakali Kalaries across India and internationally. Nair was celebrated for his versatility, excelling in all character types within Kathakali, with a particular fondness for "Kathi," "Pacha," "Minukku," and "Kari" roles. His contributions to Kathakali were recognized with several accolades, including the Kalamandalam Award and the K.N. Pisharodi Smaraka Award, along with recognition from various Kathakali clubs. He was also a founding member and the first guru of the Kathakali Promotion Society Peringode. V.P. Ramakrishnan Nair passed away on September 5, 2004. Awards & Honours: Kalamandalam Award, K.N. Pisharodi Smaraka Award.