- The Government of Kerala has announced the State Kathakali Awards, Pallavur Appu Marar Vadya Puraskaram, and Keraleeya Nritta-Natya Puraskaram for the year 2023, celebrating the contributions of renowned artists in safeguarding the state's classical performing arts.
- These awards, instituted by the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi, aim to promote and preserve traditional art forms such as Kathakali, Koodiyattam, and percussion music.
- Each award includes a cash prize, citation, and plaque, recognizing artistic excellence and dedication.
State Kathakali Award:
- Kuroor Vasudevan Namboothiri for his mastery of the Chenda
- Kalamandalam Sankara Warrier for his expertise in Maddalam
- Pallavur Appu Marar Vadya Puraskaram:
- Mattannur Sankarankutty Marar, renowned Chenda maestro
- Keraleeya Nritta-Natya Puraskaram:
- Kalamandalam P. N. Girijadevi for her achievements in Koodiyattam