GURUKRIPA INSTITUTE OF FOLK ARTS & CULTURE
Chenda
Preserving the Rhythm of Kerala
Building a Living Heritage for Kerala’s Traditional Arts through Chenda Melam, cultural training, and global learning programs.
Our Vision
Our Mission
Meet the Founder
About Founder
“Chenda Kalari was established to create a structured global platform for learning authentic Chenda rhythm traditions.”
The foundation of Gurukripa Institute of Folk Arts & Culture was established by the renowned traditional artist Sri. V. Bhanu Assan, who received four State Awards from the Government of Kerala through the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi and the Kerala Folklore Academy. He also received a special felicitation from the President of India for his outstanding contributions to traditional arts.
Continuing this legacy, Dr. Prasood Gurukripa, grandson of Sri. V. Bhanu Assan, is a dedicated Chenda artist, cultural educator, and researcher.
Through the Gurukripa Institute of Folk Arts & Culture, he has trained thousands of students globally in Chenda Melam and other traditional art forms including:
• Thiruvathirakkali
• Charadupinnikkali
• Kakkarissi Natakam
• Folk Orchestra
With a strong commitment to preserving traditional knowledge, he combines practical training, cultural heritage values, and academic research perspectives in his teaching.
Sri. V. Bhanu Assan & Dr. Prasood Gurukripa
Founder, Chenda Kalari
The Art & Discipline
Science & Rhythm of Chenda
Physical Endurance
Building strength and stamina for powerful rhythmic performances that can last hours.
Rhythmic Precision
Group Coordination
Enhances teamwork by synchronizing rhythms with others in structured performances
Listening Discipline
About Chenda Kalari
Gurukripa Nadan Kalakendram stands as a symbol of dedication to Kerala’s traditional art forms for over 30 years. Under the leadership of Dr. Prasood S. P, the institution has trained generations of students, preserving the authentic spirit of Chendamelam and other folk traditions.
We are not just an academy. We are a Gurukulam where discipline, culture, and rhythm come together.
Gurukripa Institute of Folk Arts & Culture (Reg. No: T3436/2000) is a registered cultural organization located in Kazhakkunnu village, Panavoor Panchayath, Nedumangad Taluk, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
For more than 30 years, the institute has been dedicated to teaching and preserving traditional folk arts of Kerala.
Training programs include:
• Chenda Melam
• Violin
• Music
• Thiruvathirakkali
• Charadupinnikkali
• Kolattakkali
• Kakkarissi Natakam
• Kambadavukkali
• Classical dance and drama
Over the past three decades, the institute has also identified and trained talented but financially disadvantaged youth, helping them develop skills and opportunities in traditional arts.
Through training programs, cultural workshops, and performances, Gurukripa continues to promote Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
GURUKULAM PROGRAMS
Explore Our Classes
Chenda Melam Training
- Beginner to Advanced Levels
- Offline & Online
- Focus: Technique, rhythm discipline, performance readiness
Online Global Classes
- Live interactive sessions
- Structured curriculum
- Designed for international students
Folk Arts Training
- Charadupinnikkali
- Kakkarissi Natakam
- Kambadavukkali
- Thiruvathirakkali
- Other Kerala Traditions
Program Durations
1-Day Experience
1-Day Experience
1-Day Experience
1-Day Experience
Art Forms Introduced
Chenda Melam
Thiruvathirakkali
Charadupinnikkali
Kakkarissi Natakam
Kambadavukkali
Why Choose Us
- 30+ Years of Cultural Excellence
- Led by Experienced Gurus
- Structured Gurukulam Training System
- Global Student Community
- Deep Focus on Authentic Tradition
CHENDA BEYOND BORDERS
We offer structured online training for students across the globe.
Our mission is to take the rhythm of Kerala beyond geographical boundaries—creating a global community connected through tradition.
Our Testimonials
Instrument Sales & Rental
Authentic Chenda Instruments & Accessories
Chenda Kalari provides reliable instrument rental services for students, performers, and workshops. Whether you’re learning, practicing, or performing, we ensure access to authentic Chenda instruments with flexible rental options and global delivery support.