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| Kunchan Smarakam trip2kerala.com |
The Kunchan Smarakam, a distinguished memorial and cultural institution, stands as a profound tribute to the revered 18th-century Malayalam poet, Kunchan Nambiar. Nestled in Killikurissimangalam, a serene village in the Palakkad district of Kerala, the site is a living testament to his revolutionary contributions to literature and art. The name 'Smarakam' is derived from the Sanskrit word for 'memorial,' fittingly designating this sacred place that preserves Nambiar's legacy and the rich cultural tapestry of Kerala. His ancestral home, a traditional 'Kalakkath House,' forms the focal point of the memorial, which was established by the Kerala Government in 1976.
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| Kunchan Smarakam Fort, Kerala.keralatourism.org |
Kunchan Smarakam (meaning memorial in Sanskrit) is located 30 kms from Palakkad town in Kerala -named in honor of Malayalam poet Kunchan Nambiar for poetical work and introduction of dance forms in conjunction with songs. The Kalapeedam was started in 2008 as part of the smarakam, which was established in 1976 and is affiliated to the state culture department. The Kalapeedam is today struggling to conduct the four diploma courses it offers – in ottanthullal, mohiniyattam, Carnatic music and mridangam in collaboration with Kerala Kalamandalam. Seventeen years ago it faced tough time due to state down cutting down on grants to the institution.........
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| Kunchan Nambiar.Malayalam poet and artist. keralabookstore.com |
Kunchan Nambiar is celebrated as the pioneer of Ottamthullal, a unique satirical art form that he invented and developed as a distinct category of poetry. His genius lay in his ability to use wit and humor to address societal issues and mock the rigid, caste-ridden inequalities of his time. The story behind the creation of Ottamthullal is legendary: while playing the drum (mizhavu) for a performance by a Chaakiaar, Nambiar made a mistake and was publicly reprimanded. Dejected, he left the venue but returned the next day with his own innovative art form. His performance, which was more captivating and accessible to the common person, quickly drew a large crowd, leaving the Chaakiaar with an empty audience. This incident cemented his status as a literary giant who brought classical art to the masses.
Beyond its historical significance, the Kunchan Smarakam functions as an active center for cultural preservation. It offers fundamental training in Thullal's three main divisions: Ottanthullal, Seethamkan Thullal, and Parayan Thullal. The institution provides a three-year course for aspiring artists, ensuring that the traditional art forms invented by Nambiar are passed on to future generations. The memorial also hosts a stage known as 'Kalithattu' for regular performances and special cultural events. A detailed library and a museum showcasing traditional Thullal costumes and paraphernalia are also part of the complex, making it an invaluable resource for scholars and art enthusiasts alike.
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| Seethankan Thullal -A semi-classical dance of Kerala .blogspot.com |
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| Parayum Thullal, flickr.com |
The memorial is a hub for various festivals and occasions that celebrate Kerala's arts and culture. The annual Navaratri festival is a grand celebration of art and music, while the poet's birthday on the fifth day of May, known as 'Kunchandinam,' is commemorated with great pomp and fanfare. These festivals attract a multitude of artists and spectators who gather to pay homage to Kunchan Nambiar's enduring influence.
However, in recent years, the Kunchan Smarakam has faced significant challenges. News reports indicate a period of neglect and financial instability, with issues such as pending salaries for teachers and staff leading to protests and temporary closures of parts of the memorial, including the Kunchan Kalapeedam (school of arts) that was started in 2008. While the government has pledged support and the venue has since reopened, these challenges have raised concerns about the preservation of this national monument. Despite these issues, the memorial remains a beacon of Kerala's artistic heritage, a place where Kunchan Nambiar's vision continues to inspire new generations of artists. It stands as a powerful symbol of the state's dedication to its age-old arts and culture.
Ref:
http://www.kerala-tourism.org/forts-of-kerala/kunchan-smarakam-fort.html
