Kalavadhyam Academy Officially Appoints Shri Kizhakkottu Aniyan Marar as Mukhya Rakshadhikari

A Historic Milestone for Kalavadhyam Academy in Preserving Kerala's Temple Percussion Heritage.

On Sunday, 5th July 2026, Kalavadhyam Academy for Arts & Cultures marked a proud and historic occasion at the Banaswadi Ayyappan Temple Auditorium, where the Academy's Management and Senior Artists officially appointed the renowned Ilanjithara Melam Pramani, Shri Kizhakkottu Aniyan Marar, as the Mukhya Rakshadhikari (Chief Patron) of the Academy.

The ceremony witnessed the presence of eminent artists, students, members, devotees, and cultural enthusiasts, making it a memorable celebration of Kerala's rich artistic heritage. As a mark of profound respect and gratitude, Shri Kizhakkottu Aniyan Marar was formally honoured by the Management and Senior Artists of Kalavadhyam Academy.

The event commenced with a Sopana Sangeetham performed by Kalavadhyam Vijaya Muralidharan and Akshaya Jayaram followed by a warm Welcome Address delivered by Kalavadhyam Rohith, who welcomed the distinguished guests, artists, members, and attendees. This was followed by the Guest Introduction by Kalavadhyam Sabareesh P. K., who highlighted the remarkable contributions of the dignitaries to the field of Kerala's traditional percussion arts.

The highlight of the ceremony was the official appointment of Shri Kizhakkottu Aniyan Marar as the Mukhya Rakshadhikari of Kalavadhyam Academy. The appointment was formally conferred by the Founder Chairman of Kalavadhyam and Chenda Artist Shri Kalavadhyam Dheeraj Edat, representing the Academy's Management, recognising Shri Aniyan Marar's lifelong dedication to preserving, promoting, and inspiring generations through Kerala's temple percussion traditions.

Following the appointment ceremony, Kalavadhyam Anoop Sreekandapuram, Secretary of Kalavadhyam Kshethra Vaadhyakala Samithi, addressed the gathering and shared the Academy's vision for artist development, cultural preservation, and the significance of having Shri Kizhakkottu Aniyan Marar as the Academy's Chief Patron.

The occasion was further enriched by the gracious presence of distinguished percussion maestros Shri Kuruppath Manoj Marar - Chenda artist and son of Shri Kizhakkottu Aniyan Marar and Shri Palissery Anil - Chenda Artist and Vice President of Kshethra Vaadhyakala Kshema Saba, Thrissur District, who were also honoured by Kalavadhyam Academy in recognition of their invaluable contributions to Kerala's traditional performing arts and their continued support for nurturing future generations of artists.

The formal proceedings concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Kalavadhyam Shibila Gopalakrishnan, expressing sincere gratitude to the honoured guests, artists, members, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to the grand success of the event.

The appointment of Shri Kizhakkottu Aniyan Marar as Mukhya Rakshadhikari marks a significant milestone in Kalavadhyam Academy's journey towards preserving and promoting Kerala's traditional temple arts. His guidance, experience, and blessings will undoubtedly strengthen the Academy's mission of nurturing aspiring artists while upholding the authenticity and values of our cultural heritage.

Kalavadhyam Academy for Arts & Cultures extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the dignitaries, artists, students, members, volunteers, and well-wishers who made this occasion a resounding success. Together, the Academy looks forward to building a stronger artistic community dedicated to preserving Kerala's glorious traditions for generations to come.