About Us
Sree Chithira Thirunal Smaraka Sangeetha Natya Kala Kendram was established in the year 1992 by a passionate collective of dedicated individuals and eminent maestros from the realms of classical music and dance. This cultural institution was conceived as a tribute to the enduring legacy of His Highness Sree Chithira Thirunal, the last ruling Maharaja of the princely state of Travancore, and a great patron of the arts.
Belonging to a distinguished royal lineage that significantly contributed to India’s artistic heritage—most notably through illustrious figures such as the legendary painter Raja Ravi Varma and the celebrated composer Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma—Sree Chithira Thirunal upheld and advanced this tradition with deep commitment. The Kendram stands as a living memorial to his vision and dedication to cultural preservation.
The primary mission of the Kendram is to preserve, promote, and propagate Indian classical art forms, especially music and dance, in their most authentic and traditional expressions. With a vision of democratizing the arts, the institution strives to take these classical traditions beyond the confines of royal courts and elite gatherings, and make them accessible to a broader audience—ensuring they reach the common stages and resonate with contemporary society.
By nurturing new generations of artists and providing a platform for both learning and performance, the Kendram plays a vital role in rejuvenating India’s rich cultural tapestry and keeping alive the timeless spirit of its classical heritage.
A Tribute to Royal Heritage
Sree Chithira Thirunal Smarka Sangeetha Natyakala Sahakarana Padana Kendram is a cooperative institution established in memory of His Highness Sree Chithira Thirunal, the late Maharaja of Travancore, who hailed from a distinguished lineage of artists and patrons. Drawing inspiration from his illustrious forebears, Raja Ravi Varma and Maharaja Swathi Thirunal—both renowned connoisseurs of art and music—the institution seeks to perpetuate their artistic legacy. The Kendram was formed not only to preserve the artistic traditions that were once confined to the royal courts but also to bring these timeless art forms to the public, where they can be appreciated, practiced, and passed on to future generations.
Reviving a Rich Cultural Heritage
The Kendram is rooted in the belief that the study of art should transcend the confines of formal training and become an essential part of life itself. By reintroducing classical art forms such as Carnatic music, Bharatha Natyam, Mohiniyattam, and more into community spaces, the institution strives to safeguard the power, vitality, and authenticity of these art forms. With the blessings and guidance of the Travancore Royal family, the Kendram has established a center for art studies in Trivandrum, which serves as a cradle for artistic learning, encouraging students and enthusiasts to embrace and internalize the rhythm and resonance of music and dance as part of their daily lives.
A Commitment to Cultural Revitalization
The Kendram is registered under the Cooperative Society Act and is unique in its approach as the first cooperative initiative aimed at reviving and sustaining Kerala’s vanishing art forms. Kerala, known as a land of visual and auditory arts, has seen many of its traditional art forms decline over the years. The Kendram’s mission is to reverse this trend by reigniting interest and participation in these art forms. Through this cooperative model, the Kendram invites the involvement of like-minded individuals—art lovers, patrons, and enthusiasts—whose collective support is invaluable in ensuring the revival and development of these precious cultural assets. Operating solely for the enrichment of the arts, and without any profit motive, the Kendram is a testament to the power of selfless dedication and shared cultural values.
Institutions Under the Kendram
Chithira Thirunal School of Music & Dance
Offers comprehensive Courses designed to immerse students in the world of music and dance. With a curriculum grounded in tradition, the school aims to develop well-rounded artists proficient in classical disciplines.
Chithira Thirunal Pre-School
A vibrant space where young children can explore and experience the joy of music and dance at an early age. The preschool offers foundational training in a fun and engaging manner, nurturing a love for the arts from childhood.
Chithira Thirunal Nritha Sangeetha Sabha
An elite committee formed with luminaries and veterans in the fields of music and dance. The Sabha leverages the vast experience of its members to guide and mentor young talents, ensuring that they receive exceptional training and exposure.
Annual Cultural Festivals and Events
Ananthapuri Music & Dance Festival
The annual cultural extravaganza hosted by the school, this 10-day long festival is a celebration of dance and music in the capital city of Kerala. It brings together artists, students, and audiences in a grand spectacle that showcases the rich cultural traditions of India.
Thyagaraja Aradhana
A yearly tribute to the legendary Carnatic music maestro, Sadguru Sree Thyagaraja Swami. The Aradhana is a day-long concert featuring renditions of Thyagaraja’s compositions by seasoned and aspiring musicians alike.
Navarathri Festival
A 9-day long music festival celebrated during Navarathri, where various classical music performances are held to honor the goddess of wisdom and the arts.
Shilpashala
A hands-on workshop designed for students to gain practical knowledge of various aspects of dance and music. This interactive learning experience bridges theory with practice, allowing students to deepen their understanding of traditional arts.
Other Music and Dance Events
The Kendram hosts a variety of culturally enriching events and festivals throughout the year, each meticulously curated to celebrate the diverse traditions of Indian music and dance.
Sri Swathi Thirunal Sangeetha Archana
An exclusive music program dedicated to the compositions and contributions of Maharaja Sri Swathi Thirunal, one of Kerala’s greatest royal patrons of the arts.
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Our Outreach
Kattakkada Centre:
A dedicated center at Kattakkada that serves the needs of students in semi-rural areas who do not have access to quality dance and music training. The center aims to democratize learning by extending educational opportunities to children and young adults in these communities.