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Introduction
Cheruthuruthy is a quaint little village located on the banks of river Bharathapuzha, in the northern edge of Kerala's Thrissur District. The village falls between the towns of Thrissur and Shoranur. As a tourist destination, Cheruthuruthy is widely acclaimed for its cultural and social richness and for Kerala Kalamandalam. The famous dance training center established in early 20th century by legendary poet and scholar Vallathol Narayana Menon. It was Vallathol's immense love of Kathakali and similar dance forms of Kerala that urged him to establish the academy and save Kathakali and other stylized art forms from downfall.
A must visit site on you tour to Cheruthuruthy, Kalamandalam was heralded as Kerala's first institution to provide training in classical performing arts which were, till then, patronized only by kings and landlords. The birth of Kalamandalam also ensured the social liberation of the traditional artists from the oppressions of caste hierarchy.
The two major dance forms of Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, previously on the brink of extinction got new lease of life at Kalamandalam. In 1965, Kalamandalam introduced Koodiyattam in its curriculum. The origin of Koodiyattam dates back to two thousand years, and it is the only stylized Sanskrit theatre still to exist. Recently Koodiyattam has been declared by UNESCO as one of the 'Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity'.
Other art forms prevailing at Kalamandalam include classical Karnatic music (vocal) Thullal, a semi- classical solo dance-drama, Panchavadyam - a beautiful instrumental ensemble of Kerala, and Mridangam - the most important percussion instruments in Karnatic music. Kalamandalam has made invaluable contributions to the revival of the spectacular traditional art forms of Kerala.
How to Reach
By Air: Kochi International Airport - 85 kms; Karipur International Airport - 90 kms.
By Rail: The railhead at Thrissur is 30 kms from Cheruthuruthy. Shoranur Rail Junction is at 2kms.
By Road: Cheruthuruthy is 30 kms from Thrissur, which is connected by road with many cities in South India.
Tourist Attractions
Guruvayur - Considered as one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in South India, Guruvayur is located 29 kms to the west of Thrissur. It is famous for the Sree Krishna or Guruvayurappan Temple located within the town.
Bhagavathy Temple - This historic temple is an important destination on your tour to Cheruthuruthy. It is believed to have been built by Chera ruler Senguttuvan. The Bharani Festival held here during March/April is one of the grandest in Kerala.
Thrissur Vadakkunnathan Temple- This Shiva (Vadakkunnathan) Temple is located in the center of Thrissur town and is considered one of the most ancient shrines of Kerala. It is adorned with some beautiful mural paintings and wood carvings.
While on tour to Cheruthuruthy, you can also visit the Cheruthutruthy Mosque and St.Thomas Church.
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