A POWERFUL NEW STORY

16th April 2026

Please come and join us

Kathakali makes history

The new solo performance created by Kathakali actor Kalamandalam Vijayakumar will be coming to Dorchester on 9th May and Liverpool on 16th May to make Kathakali history.

Please come and join us - all welcome.

Already the story has made huge impact on audiences - comments below. 

Bristol - Adwata Arts.

"An extraordinary Kathakali performance by Kalamandalam Vijayakumar. This deeply moving presentation was inspired by the real events following the horrific Pahalgam attack. The story, titled *“Onnu Chirikkoo Orikkal Koodi,”* [One more smile] was performed for the first time outside India.

The performance was enriched by the beautiful melodies of Malayalam poets P. Bhaskaran and Vayalar Ramavarma, set to music by renowned composer G. Devarajan.

The story created powerful momentum and reflected a contemporary evolution in storytelling within Kathakali.

This remarkable 50 minute solo performance stands out as one of the most memorable Kathakali presentations in recent history. 

Kalamandalam Vijayakumar`s performance was truly extraordinary."

Trissur, Kerala, India.

"This legendary Kathakali creation deserves to reach audiences across the world. Born out of deep pain and empathy for the affected, this powerful performance stands as an artistic resistance to terrorism.

Through intense research and emotional commitment, the tragedy is transformed into a moving Kathakali narrative that speaks beyond words. Every expression reflects the suffering of the victims and reminds humanity of the silent wounds left behind by terror.

This is not just a performance—it is a call for awareness, unity, and peace. May this work inspire the global fight against terrorism and keep alive the voices of those who suffered".

Kochi, Kerala.

"Kalamandalam Vijayakumar did not act this story - he lived it."

Paravoor, Kerala

"Today, I had the honour of attending a truly legendary Kathakali performance by Sri.Kalamandalalam Vijayakumar, at FAS Paravoor based on the tragic Pahalgam terrorist attack. This was not just a performance, but a deeply moving artistic documentation of pain, sacrifice, and humanity.

Sri.Kalamandalalam  Vijayakumar shared that he could not sleep for four days after engaging with this subject, and that nearly one full year of intense research went into shaping this work. Drawing powerful songs composed by Sri. Devarajan Master, Sri. P. Bhaskaran and Sri.Vayalar and wove them into a powerful narrative. He carefully selected four songs and transformed them into a Kathakali narrative portraying the heartbreaking story of a young bride, whose life was shattered just six days after her marriage during Pahal Gham terrorist attack. The performance was emotionally intense and left a lasting impact on everyone present.

Heartfelt thanks for this deeply moving and memorable performance".