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About
Kalamandalam Kesava Poduval (1931-2020) was a highly respected chenda maestro and guru, renowned for his contributions to Kathakali percussion and Thayambaka. Born in 1931 in Kudal village near Kuttipuram in Malappuram district, he received his initial training from his father, Achutha Poduval. His arangetam in thayambaka took place at the age of 12, and he…
Journey Timeline
1931
Born — Born in Kudal village near Kuttipuram in Malappuram district.
1943
Thayambaka Arangetam — Performed his debut in thayambaka at the age of 12.
1956
Opted for Kathakali — Decided to focus on playing for Kathakali.
1957
Joined Kerala Kalamandalam — Joined to learn Kathakali chenda.
1961-1963
Worked with Muthappan Kaliyogam — First job with Parissinikadavu Muthappan Kaliyogam.
1964
Joined RLV College of Music and Fine Arts — Began teaching chenda at Tripunithura.
1970s (mid)
Shifted focus to Kathakali chenda — Virtually quit thayambaka to concentrate on Kathakali chenda.
1986
Retired from RLV College — Retired from service at RLV College of Music and Fine Arts.
2013
Received Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi award
2017 (early)
Documentary 'NadaKesavam' released — A short movie honoring his contributions was released.
2020 (October 10)
Passed away — Died months short of his 90th birthday.
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Awards & Honors
- 2013 · Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi award — Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi
- Kalamandalam Appukutty Poduval Memorial Trust Award — Kalamandalam Appukutty Poduval Memorial Trust
Media Coverage
- Sound of artistry
The Hindu
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