R.L.V. Damodara Pisharody, a celebrated Kathakali artist from Thrippunithura, is renowned as the favourite disciple of the legendary Kalamandalam Krishnan Nair, who played a pivotal role in popularising Kerala’s classical dance-drama, Kathakali, on global stages.
Born in 1939 to Attingal Manikantthapurathu Pisharath Shivarama Pisharody and Puthrikkovil Pisharath Lakshmikutty Pisharassiar, Damodara Pisharody developed a deep passion for the art form early in life. He received his formal training in Kathakali at the R.L.V. College of Music and Fine Arts, Thrippunithura – a premier institution that continues to shape many artists in the classical arts.
Over the years, he has nurtured and mentored over a hundred disciples, contributing immensely to the preservation and propagation of Kathakali. His dedication and contribution to the art form have earned him several prestigious recognitions.
Major Awards and Recognitions
- Kalyanakrishna Foundation Kathakali Award – 2024
- Kerala Kalamandalam Award for Kathakali Vesham – 2022
- Dr. K. N. Pisharody Smaraka Puraskaram – 2021
- Kalamandalam Karunakaran Smaraka Puraskaram – 2021
- Kaliyachan Puraskaram by Paravoor Kaliyarangu – 2023
Personal Life
He is married to Mahadevamangalathu Pisharath Sharada Pisharassiar.
They have a daughter, RLV Salini Harikumar, who is also an accomplished dancer, and a son-in-law, Harikumar Pisharody.