Kalamandalam Gangadharan Biography 
Kalamandalam Gangadharan was a prominent Kathakali musician from Kerala, who lived during the period, 26 June 1936 – 26 April 2015. For his contributions towards the field of Kathakali and its music, he was honoured with Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2006. He was one of the foremost disciples of Kalamandalam Neelakandan Nambeesan. He was a visiting professor at Margi, an organization with the aim of reviving Kathakali. He was also a recipient of Kalamandalam award, Guruvayoorappan award and many other honours. His granddaughter Gauri priya is a Mohiniyattam performer, who has been trained from Kerala Kalamandalam.
Kalamandalam Gangadharan was born on 26 June 1936 at Oyoor, Kollam, as the son of Puthenmadathil Sankara Pillai and Parvathiamma. He started learning Carnatic vocal music at the age of 10 from Kadakkavur Velukuuty Nair. He joined Kerala Kalamandalam at the age of 17. After completing his course in Kathakali music, he joined the institute as an instructor and teacher. He was among the first students who completed the course of Kathakali music from the prestigious art school.
Joined Kerala Kalamandalam at the age of 24 as faculty, he was associated with the institute till his retirement in 1991. He retired as Vice Principal. He also got associated with many Kathakali stage performances over the years, during his days at Kerala Kalamandalam. He was nicknamed as Asan. As an artist he is known for his unique tenor and accent. He has been a part of several Kathakali tours abroad. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam handed him the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2006. Kalamandalam Gangaharan died on 26 April 2015 in Kollam. He has been ailing for some time. He was survived by his wife Sathiamma and three children.
Published: January 05, 2020
Updated: January 05, 2020
