This post is not technical. However, being a SPICMACAYite and an Indian, I felt compelled to let my readers know about the sad news; especially when the news channels are not finding any slot for this legend.
Koodiyattam exponent Ammannur Madhava Chakyar, recipient of the Padma Shri as well as the Padma Bhushan honours by the Govrnment of India. He was not only responsible for bringing the art form Kutiyattam (or Koodiyattam) out of temples, but also with reviving it.
The following news article from The Hindu provides other details.
Koodiyattom expert Ammannur Madhava Chakyar died at his residence, Ammannur Chakyar Madom, at Irinjalakuda, near here, on Tuesday. He was 92.
The end came around 9.30 p.m.
The history of modern Koodiyattom is inexorably entwined with Madhava Chakyar’s life and art.
He did not want Koodiyattam to be restricted to the temple arena. His major contribution to the art was to take it beyond traditional confines.
Ammannur’s debut performance was at the age of 11 at the Thirumandhamkunnu temple, Angadipuram. He played the role of Sutradhara in the play ‘Balacharita.’ His first-ever Prabandha Koothuwas held at Trikkovil temple at Chendamangalam.
He trained under the princes of the royal family of erstwhile Kodungallur. He played his first major role, Sreerama in ‘Soorpanakankam’ at the Koodalmanikya temple in Irinjalakuda. He was a recipient of Padma Bhushan, Kalidasa Samman, Kerala Sangeeta Nataka Akademi Award and Kendra Sangeet Nataka Akademi Award. He is survived by his wife Parukutty Nangiaramma.
May his soul rest in peace.
