The auspicious occasion of Chowallur Krishnankutty’s 80th birthday was an event that Guruvayoor and its cultural society would cherish for years to come. The two-day celebration turned out to be a confluence of artists, writers, film personalities, musicians and other dignitaries, and artistic performances covering all genres. It saw a galaxy of eminent personalities sharing their memories and commemorating the contributions that Chowallur made to a multitude of sectors ranging from journalism to devotional music.
Held on August 28 and 29 in 2016 at Guruvayoor Townhall, the birthday celebration was attended by friends, family members and representatives from all walks of life. Many esteemed personalities visited his residence to wish him well ahead of the official event. Veteran actor Madhu, director Sathyan Anthikkad and Kummanam Rajasekharan were among the guests who came over to the Chowallur house with their birthday greetings.
To commence the event, an enchanting Panchavadyam, led by Annamanada Parameshwara Marar, Chottanikkara Vijayan and Thichoor Mohanan, gave accompaniment to the ‘prasadam’ from Guruvayoor temple to the venue.
“Chowallur is the embodiment of vernacular language and culture, and the true reflection of Kerala’s heritage” was how Kerala Assembly Speaker Sreeramakrishnan described the much-acclaimed journalist-writer-lyricist-scenarist at the inaugural function. Guests on the first day of the celebration included Minister V.S. Sunilkumar, K.V. Abdul Khader MLA, Therambil Ramakrishnan, Prof M. Madhavankutty, Mathrubhumi Managing Director P.V. Chandran, Anjam Madhusoodhan Namboothiri, Thanthri Azhakath Shastra Sharman Namboothiri, P.P.P Namboothiri and Jayaraj Warrier among others.
The devotional music programme by T.S Radhakrishnan had eminent singers P. Jayachandran, Madhu Balakrishnan and Jayashree Rajeev soulfully singing the songs penned by Chowallur. Making the event highly endearing, renowned singer K.J Yesudas who has immortalised many a devotional song written by Chowallur, including the timeless “Oru neramenkilum kaanaathe vayyente..” shared his wishes over the phone.
