Kathakali

Hymavathi Raveendran

Hymavathi Raveendran is a pioneering Kathakali artist hailing from Bethurpara, a small village in the Kasargo. She is notable for being among the earliest women in Kerala to embrace the traditionally male-dominated art form of Kathakali in the 1960s. Her journey into the world of Kathakali began at the young age of six in 1958. Her father, Cheviri Gopalan Nair, a passionate Kathakali enthusiast, played a pivotal role in her early exposure to the art. C. G Nair also played a key role in getting the Kathakali art form to the Kasargod District. He founded the Sree Mookambika Kathakali Sangham in 1964, and it was under this banner that Hymavathi, along with other children, began her formal training under the tutelage of Guru Govinda Panicker. Even now, at the age of 68, Hymavathi's passion for Kathakali remains undiminished. She continues to be actively involved in the art form, performing alongside her peers who started their Kathakali journey with her decades ago. Together, they are now part of a Kathakali group known as "Arangu Natya Sangham," keeping their shared love for this classical dance tradition alive. Hymavathi Raveendran's dedication and lifelong commitment to Kathakali serve as an inspiration, particularly for women aspiring to pursue this art form. Her story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in breaking traditional barriers and keeping the rich cultural heritage of Kathakali vibrant.