Historic moment; now boys can also learn Mohiniyattam in Kalamandalam

THRISSUR: The Kerala Kalamandalam on Wednesday took a historic decision. From now on, boys will also be admitted to learn Mohiniyattam at Kalamandalam. This crucial decision was taken in today's board meeting. The governing body announced that admission to Kerala Kalamandalam will be granted to everyone regardless of their gender.

The decision was taken unanimously. The board also decided to start courses in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi and Theater and Performance Making. The curriculum will be decided by the Curriculum Committee. Meanwhile, dancers Neena Prasad and Kshemavathi termed the decision as a historic moment.

The historic decision comes a few days after a controversy broke out over the racist slurs made by a dancer named Kalamandalam Sathyabhama against dancer RLV Ramakrishnan. Several people came out in support of Ramakrishnan after Sathyabhama's remarks became controversial. Following this, the Human Rights Commission registered a case against Sathyabhama.