Veteran Ilathalam Maestro and Percussionist
Pallavur Raghava Pisharody is a renowned rhythm artiste celebrated for his mastery in Ilathalam, a vital percussive instrument in traditional Kerala temple ensembles. Born on 15th November 1948 to Manjaloor Pisharath Narayana Pisharody and Kodumudi Cherat Pisharath Sridevi Pisharasiar, he inherited his passion for rhythm from his father, who was his first guru.
At the age of 19, he began formal training in Chenda under the legendary Pallavur Kunjukutta Marar. He performed his Arangettam in 1969 at the Sri Thrippallavur Temple, marking the beginning of an illustrious musical journey. He later became closely associated with the famed Pallavur Trio, further refining his skills and artistic expression.
A doyen in Ilathalam, Pisharody has been a distinguished presence at many temple festivals across Kerala, especially the iconic Thrissur Pooram, where his rhythmic contributions are revered.
Awards and Honours
Over the decades, his contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including:
- Pulappatta Rama Marar Award
- Kongad Sargam Sangeetha Award
- Dubai Melam Award
- Kalamandalam Krishnankutti Poduval “Kalasagar” Award
- Njhangattiri Devaswom Award
- Thiranottam Award
- Purathu Veettil Nanu Marar Gurusmruthi Award
- Kuzhoor Narayana Marar Foundation Award
- Gurupooja Award – Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi
- Gurudakshina Puraskaram – Kshethra Vadya Yuva Kalasamithi
- Pallavur Appu Marar Puraskaram
- Guruvayur Merchants Puraskaram
…and many more accolades that reflect his unparalleled contribution to Kerala’s classical percussion traditions.
Personal Life
Pallavur Raghava Pisharody is married to Thippallur Pisharath Leela Pisharasiar. The couple has three children – Ramesh, Rajesh, and Radhika.
