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**Summary:**

Kalamandalam Premkumar, the great-nephew of the late Padma Shri Guru Chemancheri Kunhiraman Nair, is working to revive his uncle’s legacy at the Cheliya Kathakali Vidyalayam in Koyilandy, a school offering free Kathakali training. The school, founded 42 years ago, trains over 300 students in various disciplines related to Kathakali and Bharatanatyam. Efforts are being made to combat the decline of Kathakali on Malabar stages by organizing learning workshops and encouraging participation, including from girls, breaking down traditional gender barriers. The school receives financial assistance from the Union government.

**News Article:**

**Kathakali Legacy Lives On in Kerala as School Revives Traditional Art Form**

**KOZHIKODE, June 21, 2025** – Four years after the passing of Padma Shri Guru Chemancheri Kunhiraman Nair, his legacy is being kept alive at the Cheliya Kathakali Vidyalayam in Koyilandy by his great-nephew, Kalamandalam Premkumar. The school, founded by Guru Chemancheri 42 years ago, provides free Kathakali training and is working to combat the decline of the traditional art form on Malabar stages.

Kalamandalam Premkumar, inspired by his uncle’s performances, is dedicated to continuing the school’s mission. “He was an extraordinary talent,” Premkumar recalled. The school currently trains over 300 students in Kathakali Sangeetham (music), Chenda, Maddalam, Keralanadanam, and the art of Chutti (Kathakali makeup).

A notable trend is the increasing number of girls embracing Kathakali, historically a male-dominated art. The school actively organizes the annual Kathakali Padana Shibiram (Kathakali learning workshop) to foster interest and participation, like eleven-year-old Thanmayi Renjith, who initially hesitant, has now joined regular classes.

Anagha M.S., another student, was inspired to pursue Kathakali after watching Kuchelavrittam. “I was awestruck by its grandeur,” she said, highlighting the dedication required to master the art form. The school receives crucial financial support from the Union government.

“The school is carrying forward Kunjiramettan’s legacy,” remarked Vijayalakshmi K., a local resident and Kathakali enthusiast, remembering Guru Chemancheri. The Cheliya Kathakali Vidyalayam stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition and the commitment to preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

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