Fri Apr 25 15:51:34 UTC 2025: ## Eminent Kathakali Maddalam Artiste Kalamandalam Narayanan Nair Passes Away

**Thrissur, April 25, 2025** – Renowned Kathakali maddalam artiste Kalamandalam Narayanan Nair passed away on Friday at Amala Hospital in Thrissur after a battle with age-related ailments. Nair, a disciple of the legendary Kalamandalam Appukutti Poduval, was celebrated for his unique and disciplined percussion style. His last performance was at the recent Kottakkal Vishwambhara Temple festival.

A recipient of numerous awards, including the Kerala Kalamandalam Award and the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award, Nair’s career spanned over 50 countries. He dedicated many years to teaching at Unnayi Warrier Smaraka Kalanilayam and Kerala Kalamandalam, before co-founding the Sree Dhanwanthari Kalakshetram with his late wife, Ottan Thullal artiste Kalamandalam Devaki. The cultural institution served as a mentor to countless students. His passing marks a significant loss for the world of Indian classical percussion.

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