Media
Kozhikode was buzzing with social and cultural activities when Chowallur moved to the town as the staff artist of All India Radio (AIR) in the 1960s. In those days, Kozhikode was the hub of famous writers, theatre personalities, artists and movie makers whose works were making a major impact on the state’s art scene. Chowallur arrived at the right moment to be welcomed into the fold of creativity which helped him better his skills.
The scenario at AIR was not different. It basked in the glory of its star employees, starting with much-acclaimed writer Uroob (P. C. Kuttikrishnan), Thikkodiyan master, Payyannur Parameshwara Iyer, K.A. Kodungalloor and the like. K Raghavan Master was the producer of the light music section, and Chowallur got the opportunity to create songs, many of which became all-time favourites of listeners.
Chowallur was quoted as saying, ”Once Raghavan master asked me to write a song for a special Vishu programme. He loved it, and complimented that I could write romantic songs as well as devotional songs.”
He also lent his voice to radio dramas at AIR, and was much appreciated for his role as Soori Namboothirippad in Chandu Menon’s ‘Indulekha.’
While the stint with AIR expanded the realm of his creativity and honed his writing, the association with artists encouraged him to explore other genres beyond music and literature.
For Kerala Kalamandalam, he wrote and directed documentaries on the lives of veteran Kathakali artistes Kalamandalam Ramankutty Nair, Chambakkulam Pachu Pillai, Kavungal Chathunny Panicker, Keezhpadam Kumaran Nair and Kudamaloor Karunakaran Nair as well as renowned Mohiniyattam artist Kalamandalam Kalyanikutty Amma.
For Doordarshan, he scripted a documentary on the legendary Carnatic musician Chembai Vaidyanadha Bhagavathar which brought him accolades from far and wide. Separately he penned lyrics for musical albums on Doordarshan celebrating Kerala’s rustic village life and festivals.
Chowallur kept himself busy throughout his life and was engaged in one activity after the other, bringing to each one the glow of his immense talent.