Sooraj T R

🪔 About

Sooraj Nambiar, also known as Sooraj T R, is a renowned Indian classical dancer specializing in Koodiyattam and Chakyar Koothu. Born on February 21, 1978, in Desamangalam village, Thrissur district, Kerala, he was initiated into Kutiyattam at the age of 10 by Guru Ammannur Madhava Chakyar. He made his debut performance in 1991 at Natanakairali, Irinjalakuda. His extensive training includes tutelage under esteemed gurus such as Ammannur Madhava Chakyar, Ammannur Parameswara Chakyar, Ammannur Kuttan Chakyar, and G. Venu. Sooraj Nambiar is a versatile performer, adept at portraying important roles in both Kutiyattam and Chakyar Koothu. He participated in the Abhinaya Kalari (acting laboratory) organized by Natanakairali and Sanskriti Pravah for three years. His career highlights include playing main roles in new productions like "Abhijnana Sakuntalam" and "Vikramorvasheeyam," directed by G. Venu, and participating in the production of "Mayashiras" by Ammannur Kuttan Chakyar. He has performed widely with the Ammannur Chachu Chakyar Smaraka Gurukulam and Natankairali, both within India and internationally, and has also presented solo performances. Notably, he was one of two actors who represented India at the World Theatre Project in Sweden. He has also served as an assistant to G. Venu in theatre workshops conducted by the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi in Trichur and at TTRP, Singapore. With over three decades of experience in Koodiyattam, Sooraj Nambiar is also recognized for his choreographic skills. In 2024, he premiered his production "Unmatha Vikraman," the fourth Act from Kalidasa's "Vikramorvaseeyam," at Natanakairali, Irinjalakuda, which showcased his histrionics and dexterity as a choreographer. He is an alumnus and a current faculty member of the Ammannur Chachu Chakyar Smaraka Gurukulam. Awards & Honours: Kerala SANGEET NATAK ACADEMY AWARD (2018), Bharat Kalarthna Award, Kala Kshrestha Puraskar, Ponchilambu Puraskar, Natyakeli Puraskar.