Introduction

We are delighted to announce that Shri Babu Panicker has been re-elected as the President of the International Kathakali Centre (ICK), Delhi. Alongside him, Dr. Delony Manuvel has been elected as the General Secretary. Their leadership and dedication to promoting Kathakali have been instrumental in the Centre’s growth and global recognition.

Newly Elected Office Bearers

The newly elected team at the International Kathakali Centre (ICK) comprises a group of distinguished individuals committed to the preservation and promotion of Kathakali. In addition to Shri Babu Panicker and Dr. Delony Manuvel, the team includes Vidhu Shekhar and Geetha Poduval as Vice Presidents, Ajith Nair as Joint Secretary, and RMS Nair as Treasurer. With Shri Babu Panicker continuing to lead as President and Dr. Delony Manuvel bringing fresh perspectives and dynamic leadership as General Secretary, the Centre is well-positioned for further growth. This team is poised to advance ICK’s mission of promoting Kathakali and upholding its esteemed legacy in preserving this rich cultural heritage.

About the International Kathakali Centre (ICK)

The International Kathakali Centre (ICK), affectionately known as the ‘Kathakali Centre,’ was established in 1960 to popularize Kathakali, the rich and vibrant art form of Kerala, in the National Capital, Delhi. Since its inception, ICK has endeavored to preserve the art form’s purity and maintain its classical status, staying true to its full merit and spirit.

Foundation and Recognition

The foundation stone of the ‘Kathakali Centre’ was laid by the First President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, symbolizing the Centre’s deep-rooted connection with Indian cultural heritage. Over the decades, the Kathakali Centre has achieved several prestigious recognitions:

  • Ministry of Culture, Government of India: Recognized as a category one institution.
  • Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR): Empaneled as an outstanding category institution.

Today, the International Kathakali Centre is also recognized by other eminent cultural bodies, including:

  • Central Sangeet Natak Akademi
  • Delhi Sahitya Kala Parishad
  • Centre for Cultural Resources & Training (CCRT)

These recognitions affirm the Centre’s status as a major cultural organization that has achieved worldwide recognition and contributed significantly to promoting Indian classical arts.

Looking Ahead

With the new leadership team in place, the International Kathakali Centre is poised to continue its mission of promoting Kathakali and other traditional Indian performing arts. Under the guidance of Shri Babu Panicker and Dr. Delony Manuvel, the Centre is set to launch new initiatives that will enhance cultural awareness and foster a deeper appreciation of this ancient art form both within India and globally.

Conclusion

We extend our best wishes to the new team, especially to Shri Babu Panicker and Dr. Delony Manuvel, and look forward to their contributions in taking the International Kathakali Centre to greater heights. Their commitment to the advancement of Kathakali and the preservation of its traditional roots is commendable, and we are confident in their ability to uphold and enhance the Centre’s prestigious legacy.