A new chapter in Kerala’s cultural storytelling has begun with the opening of the Kalamandalam Cultural Outreach Centre in Fort Kochi. Established by the Kerala Kalamandalam, the state’s prestigious university for art and culture. The centre aims to bring Kerala’s rich performing arts closer to tourists exploring this historic port town.
Inaugurated by Minister for Culture Saji Cherian, the centre occupies the space of the former Folklore Cultural Theatre and has been refurbished with CSR support from Cochin Shipyard. The initiative seeks to offer visitors an immersive introduction to classical art forms such as kathakali, mohiniyattam, bharatanatyam, koodiyattam, and traditional percussion performances.
“Many tourists who visit Fort Kochi also travel to Cheruthuruthi to experience Kalamandalam’s legacy. This centre makes that experience more accessible,” shared Vice-Chancellor B. Ananthakrishnan.
The centre’s debut will feature a three-day festival beginning November 1, with daily kathakali shows at 5 pm. Plans are also underway to host regular performances, training sessions for local students, and weekend workshops, nurturing a deeper appreciation of Kerala’s classical arts among both travellers and the city’s youth.
