One
may call 'Malayala Kalagramam' (MAKAM) a torchbearer of Kerala's traditional
arts. Such is the extent and devotion of this institute in keeping the
traditional arts of Kerala throbbing with vitality. With an orientation towards
youngsters who have genuine interest to learn some of the time tested and unique
traditions and artistic expressions of Kerala, 'Malayala Kalagramam' since its
inception in the year 1993 has turned out to be an altar for realizing the
aptitude and fine tuning the talents of many, especially the youth.
'Malayala
Kalagramam' is sponsored by the A.P.Kunhikannan Trust, Chennai and offers
regular and part-time courses in Painting, Sculpture, Music, Dance and Art
Pottery. Over the years, it has brought under its fold, new learning avenues
like Handicrafts, Sanskrit and Yoga. Two-year certificate and three year diploma
courses are offered at the centre.
'Malayala
Kalagramam' is situated in New Mahe, near Kannur, which is
one of the prominent regions popular for Kerala's Northern Ballads or the Vadakkan
Pattu. It is also the cradle of the mother of all martial art forms Kalaripayattu
with a host of traditional art forms and rituals like Poorakkali, Theyyam
and Thotam. Imbibing the undying spirit and glorious traditions of this
geographical entity, the center firmly believes that tradition is not the
remains of yester years, but is the glory of the present and glory it must
remain.
Took
form and bloomed to life with the ideals and visions of Mr. M. Govindan, Mr. M.
P. Damodaran, Mr. K. A. Kodungalloor, Dr. K. B. Menon, Mr. M. V. Devan and Mr.
A. N. Nambiar, the 'Malayala Kalagramam' in essence is a practice ring or Kalari
to children and youngsters to understand, admire the art treasure trove of
Kerala and practice them to one's content.
While
imparting training to students, “Malayala Kalagramam” also makes it a point
to give its students proper exposure to eminent personalities credited with
distinct contributions to the field of art. This is made possible through
personal and group interactions, workshops, seminars etc. The 'Fraternity Centre'
at the 'Kalagramam' has special projects in different fields of Art and
Humanities, and undertakes them from time to time, so as to enlighten the
students with classical and contemporary trends and techniques in the respective
fields of art. A unique aspect of the Kalagramam is that of being host to the
only art gallery in the District of Kannur.
Among the objectives of “Malayala Kalagramam” is enabling the trainees to get an insight of classical and contemporary trends and techniques in the respective field of art. It also thrives to teach them the application of art and make them understand the history of art, so as to utilize it better in their daily of life.
Getting
there:
Nearest
railway station:
Mahe, 29 kms from Kannur town
MALAYALA
KALAGRAMAM
'Cochin House', New Mahe - 673 331
Phone: ++91 - 490-2332961