Government may sanction Rs 1.5 crore grant to resolve Kalamandalam salary crisis

THRISSUR: Kerala Kalamandalam, the premier institution for classical performing arts, is grappling with a severe financial crunch, leading to the dismissal of 132 temporary employees on November 30. To address the crisis, the government is considering an additional grant of ₹1.5 crore this month, following the intervention of Minister for Culture, Saji Cherian.

The minister assured Vice Chancellor Dr. B. Ananthakrishnan that the issue would be resolved promptly. Acting on the Vice Chancellor’s request, a proposal for the additional grant has been forwarded to the Finance Department. Officials are hopeful that the amount will be sanctioned in December.

The immediate requirement is ₹90 lakh to cover November’s salaries, but only ₹50 lakh has been received so far. Kalamandalam’s annual grant of ₹7.75 crore has proven insufficient, forcing the institution to rely on supplementary government assistance. Last year, an additional ₹3 crore grant was sanctioned to tide over similar financial difficulties.

Kalamandalam is also making strides toward achieving financial independence. Efforts are underway to organize more performances, including international shows, to boost revenue.

Plans are in place to establish a center in Fort Kochi aimed at attracting foreign audiences and promoting Kerala's classical art forms. Additionally, the institution is exploring revisions to its academic courses to enhance job prospects for its students.

Currently, Kalamandalam generates an annual income of approximately ₹50 lakh from external performances, including Kathakali and from renting out its iconic Koothambalam. However, this revenue is insufficient to meet its operational expenses.