Villagers here swear their life is entwined with the classical dance form and are third generation connoisseurs of the temple art that is known for its colourful headgear, costume and mudra. Nearly 30 years after first raising their demand for the change, the little-known village called Ayroor (South) on the banks of Pamba river in Pathanamthitta district will finally be renamed ‘Kathakali Gramam’. And now, decades of patience have borne fruit for a village in Kerala that holds close to its heart an art form that defines the state’s heritage – Kathakali.
Now, the landmark of the village post office will be rechristened Kathakali Gramam (PO) soon after the panchayat received the letter of approval from the Union home ministry and survey general’s office on Tuesday.
“We are happy our long-standing demand has finally been met. It is a recognition for the village and its rich cultural heritage. We were told this is the first time a village is getting the name after an art form,” said panchayat president Ambili Prabhakaran Nair.
