Padma Shri awardees Kannappa Sambandan, renowned Therukoothu performer and Velu Aasan, Parai Isai artiste were felicitated by Koothu-P-Pattarai Trust, Bharata Ilango Foundation for Asian Culture (BIFAC) in association with Dr MGR Janaki College for Women in Chennai on Monday.
Dr Sambandam reminisced on his five decade-long journey in performing Therukoothu. He also recalled his early performances, from his first stage performance in 1971 that remain vivid in his memory.
Speaking on the occasion, artiste Velu Aasan said, “I have faced many struggles, disappointments, setbacks to get here. Now, after the Padma Shri, there is growing respect for Parai art every where. This award isn’t just for me, it’s for the art form.”
Hosting the event, Padma Vibhushan awardee and managing trustee of BIFAC, Padma Subrahmanyam spoke how the ancient epics of India are reaching audiences across the world. “From Kashmir to Cape Town and south east Asia, epics like Mahabharata has travelled across because of our Tamil folk art,” she said. “BIFAC is also planning a state-level Koothu conference in collaboration with Koothu-P-Pattarai.”
Former president of Alliance Francaise de Madras, V. Sriram added, “To truly experience Therukoothu, one must visit the villages where it’s performed, stay through the night, and respect the tradition. If the artistes can perform all night, we can certainly watch.”
Hemanathan, Deputy Director, State Department. of Art & Culture, S. Sowmya, Vice-Chancellor, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Music & Fine Arts University; Gnana Rajasekaran - IAS (Retd) and film director; V.R. Devika, managing trustee of Aseema Trust, K. R. Rajaravivarma, associate professor in Performing Arts, Pondicherry University were among the participants.
The event ended with Therukoothu “Vali Moksham” which was performed by Kalaimamani Kannappa Sambandan Troupe.
Published - April 15, 2025 12:50 am IST
