Patron of Arts

All through his life, Chowallur Krishnankutty was a true patron of the arts, wholeheartedly dedicated to fostering creativity and supporting artists. He was an artist himself, and a connoisseur of arts, but his connection with art and culture went beyond mere admiration; he wholeheartedly invested in their craft, reviewed their performances, and created platforms for artists to showcase their talents, ensuring their voices are heard and celebrated.

Right from his young days, he was associated with theatre and played a key role in promoting talents. Later, as a journalist, making effective use of his pen, Chowallur brought public attention to the pathetic living conditions of artists, and art forms that were slowly disappearing from people’s sight and minds, and helped in bringing to them much-needed support and encouragement.

With a scholarship from the Central Government’s Department of Education, Chowallur did research in Folk Arts In Kerala and submitted the work under the supervision of Dr K. N Pisharody, Chairman, Kerala Kalamandalam, and Kavalam Narayana Panicker, Secretary of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academi. This work helped expand his knowledge which later manifested through his varied works in this field.

The documentaries he wrote and directed on Kathakali artists and musicians not only shed light on their lives and creative processes but also explore the historical and cultural richness of Kerala. His passion for storytelling and deep appreciation for culture helped promote the rich artistic heritage of the state and raise awareness on a global scale.

He was a member of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi and the Kerala Sahitya Akademi, and he effectively used these positions to support artists and their works in all possible ways. Chowallur served as the Vice-Chairman of Kerala Kalamandalam, and he wholeheartedly encouraged initiatives to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the unique artistic tapestry that defines Kerala’s identity.

He galvanised support and increased public awareness for artists through the medium of the Newspaper at Malayala Manorama. His Leader page and other articles on upcoming and established artists in Kathakali, Ottam Thullal, Koothu, Chenda / Vadyakala etc enhanced the popularity of these art forms amongst readers while giving those artists much needed recognition in Kerala’s cultural milieu. Separately, he was instrumental in leading milestone celebrations such as awarding “Veerasringala” for artists in the the fields of Percussion and Performing Arts. As a steward of the Kshetra Vadyakala Academy, he was instrumental in organising the Thrithala Keshava Pothuval Thayambaka competition to nurture and highlight upcoming young talent in the field of percussion arts.

His tireless efforts have not only elevated the artistic landscape but have also nurtured a vibrant community of creators in Kerala. For the art community in the state, Chowallur’s unwavering commitment to the arts is an inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of society.
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