Guardians of

Timeless

Traditions

Walk with us through our timeless story.

When crossing oceans meant risking lives, Kerala shimmered like a dream - a land with the scent of pepper and the promise of paradise.

Trade winds brought Arabs, Chinese, and Portuguese to Kerala’s shores, but within its villages, life continued with rituals, art forms and festivals.

Before the age of screens, people found escape in art through Kathakali's grandness, Theyyam's rebellion, Koothu's humour, and Kalaripayattu's strength.

Fashioned from coconut fronds, temple dyes, and carved wood, these art forms were once watched over by feudal landlords, who in time, became their custodians.

In the wake of freedom, as colonial powers withdrew and feudal rule faded, the art forms stood exposed, unsure of their place in a newly independent India.

As tradition swayed in the storm of change, determination gave rise to a new dawn -
Kerala Kalamandalam.

ABOUT US

Kerala Kalamandalam

The iconic institution of Kerala's cultural renaissance.

MORE
HISTORY

Making of a
Cultural History

Walk through the corridors of time — where Kerala Kalamandalam's small steps rose to command the grand stage as Kerala's cultural icon.

MORE
CAMPUS

Campuses
of Artistry

Think of the campus as ancient gurukulam. No scrolls or quills, just the magic of art taking shape.

MORE

Perform at
Kalamandalam
The Stages of
Maestros

ARTFORMS

The Art
in Artforms

Step in and meet the art forms that dance, sing, and tell stories.

MORE
EXPLORE

Explore the
Cultural Cosmos

Walk in curious. Walk out informed. The kalari, the Kuttampalam, the gallery and the museum, each stop has stories to tell you.

MORE

Milestones
in Timeline

EXPERIENCE HERITAGE

Hands-On
with Artforms

Turn 'I saw it' into 'I did it' with the Cultural Heritage Experiential Programs. Live the art and carry the story home.

MORE
EVENTS

Witness the
Masters at Play

When the curtain rises, the artists step forward. Experience raw, live performances that bring art to life.

MORE
KOCHI CENTRE

Centre for Performance &
Outreach Fort Kochi

If Kalamandalam feels far, its art comes closer in Fort Kochi.

MORE

Book Your Visit

SHORT DURATION PROGAMMES FOR 2025-26

TRADITION, ARTS 18.00

Indian Performance Cultures'- International Winter School

TRADITION, ARTS 18.00

Indian Performance Cultures'- International Winter School

SHORT DURATION PROGAMMES FOR 2025-26

TRADITION, ARTS 18.00

Indian Performance Cultures'- International Winter School

Scroll