Annamanada Parameshwara Marar no more

Kochi: Annamanada Parameshwara Marar, a maestro of the Pancha-vadyam, died in Kochi on Wednesday. He died at a private hospital in Kochi where he was undergoing treatment for lung-related ailments. He was also suffering from diabetes. He was 67 years.

A teacher in Kalamandalam Marar was ‘Mela Pramani’ of the famous Madathil Varavu in Thrissur Pooram for more than decade. Known as innovator, Marar has been responsible for the introduction of many changes in the Panchavadyam without losing its traditional authenticity. Born at Annamanada near Mala in Thirssur Marar was one of the students joined in the first batch at Kalamadndalam for learning ‘Thimila’ a traditional percussion instrument.  After completing his studies he worked for over two years under the famous Pallavoor brothers.

He became the Mela Pramani of Madathil Varavu in 2003 after the death of Pallavoor Kunjukuttan Marar. He led the Madathil Varavu till 2016. A recipient of several awards including the Sangeetha Natak Academy Marar is survived by his wife Shanta and children Hareesh, Kala and Dhanya. The cremation will be held on Thursday.