Kalluvazhi T.P. Rama Pisharody – A Pillar of Kathakali Tradition
Long before Kathakali attained its internationally acclaimed status, the art form was carefully nurtured and popularized by a humble yet immensely talented Kathakali singer — Kalluvazhi Thrivikramapurath Rama Pisharody, affectionately known as Kunju Pisharody.
When the renowned Ayurvedacharya P.S. Varier founded the P.S.V. Natyasangham with the aim of promoting Kathakali, the responsibility of managing and guiding the institution was entrusted to Rama Pisharody. Under his stewardship, a vibrant and youthful Kathakali troupe came into being.
A true polymath in the world of Kathakali, Rama Pisharody mastered several aspects of the art beyond singing — including Chenda, Maddalam, make-up, and more. He was a mentor and guide to numerous illustrious disciples, including Kottakkal Krishnankutty Nair, Kalluvazhi Vasu, Vasu Nedungadi, and Kuttan Marar. Many consider him the “Guru’s Guru” — a foundational figure for generations of artists who followed.
He was trained under Kalluvazhi Govinda Pisharody, a legendary figure in his own right, alongside fellow disciple Vazhengada Kunj Nair. For music, he received guidance from Bhagavathar Kesavan Nair in Kathakali Sangeetham.
Born in 1892 to Thrivikramapurath Parukutty Pisharassiar and Kaplingat Manakkal Amrithan Namboodiripad, Rama Pisharody pursued his early education locally before dedicating himself fully to Kathakali under the guidance of his brother, Govinda Pisharody. He later married Vengasseri Kaavil Pisharath Parukutty Pisharassiar.
Described by Kottakkal Krishnankutty Nair — the former Principal of P.S.V. Natyasangham — as an “encyclopedia of Kathakali,” Rama Pisharody’s contributions continue to resonate in the Kathakali world.
In 1974, at the age of 82, this versatile Acharya of Kathakali passed away, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped the very fabric of the art form.
