Sopanam Kalavedi and Research Centre is a dedicated institution for learning and researching Kerala’s traditional temple art forms like Sopana Sangeetham, Paani Vadanam, Kalamezhuthum Pattum, Panchavadyam, Ashtapadi, Chenda Mela and more. It was established on January 31, 2006, at Kudamaloor NSS Karayogam 441. The then NSS General Secretary, Sri P.K. Narayana Panicker, inaugurated the centre by ceremonially handing over the Deva Vadyam Idekka to the Director and Guru, Sri Muraleedhara Marar.
Located in Kudamaloor—a culturally rich village in Aymanam Panchayat, Kottayam district—the place has long been a cradle for artists and writers. Notable figures from here include the acclaimed Kathakali maestro Kudamaloor Karunakaran Nair, and other exponents of Sopana Sangeetham, Kalamezhuthu, Mudiyattom, and the martial art Kalaripayattu.Since its inception, Sopanam Kalavedi and Research Centre has trained hundreds of artists in these ritualistic temple traditions, many of whom now perform across Kerala. The centre also attracts school and university students who frequently visit for academic research and exploration into these rare and sacred art forms.
Sopanam Kalavedi offers free training in traditional temple arts to all interested learners. The program is open to students of all ages, with no restrictions. The following subjects are taught as part of this initiative:
Students who have trained at Sopanam Kalavedi have gone on to excel in various temple arts, becoming skilled performers, teachers, and cultural ambassadors. Their continued contributions help preserve and promote the rich traditions of temple heritage.
