Who is Vimala Menon and why did she receive the Padma Shri?

Vimala Menon is a veteran dancer and founder of Kerala Natya Academy, recognized with the Padma Shri for her contributions to Mohiniyattam.

How did Vimala Menon innovate Mohiniyattam?

Menon transformed Mohiniyattam from a solo form into group presentations, composed new dance items, and integrated additional percussion instruments.

What is Vimala Menon's philosophy on changes in dance?

She believes that while changes are necessary, they must always be firmly rooted in the tradition and theoretical framework of the dance form.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / 90000 Students 'Won' This Padma Shri for Vimala Menon

90000 Students 'Won' This Padma Shri for Vimala Menon

5 Feb

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Summary

Vimala Menon attributes her Padma Shri to over 90,000 students.
She innovated Mohiniyattam by composing group items.
Menon advocates for changes rooted in tradition for Mohiniyattam.

90000 Students 'Won' This Padma Shri for Vimala Menon

Veteran dancer Vimala Menon has been recognized with the Padma Shri, an award she humbly attributes to her vast network of over 90,000 students. For 65 years, Menon has been a significant figure in the dance world, particularly in transforming Mohiniyattam, Kerala's classical dance form. She believes the award is a blessing, acknowledging her contributions and those of her students and musical ensemble.

Menon's journey in dance was inspired by Vallathol Narayana Menon, founder of Kerala Kalamandalam. Initially a Bharatanatyam instructor, she felt compelled to elevate Mohiniyattam, recognizing the need for dedicated support for this indigenous art form. She famously adapted the concept of group performances for Mohiniyattam, originally a solo presentation, by composing items inspired by the dynamic flow of football.

Her innovations extended to costumes, ornaments, and musical accompaniments, including the integration of instruments like the edakka and maddalam alongside traditional percussion. While these changes initially faced criticism, they eventually gained acceptance and were adopted by others. Menon consistently champions the idea that while artistic evolution is vital, it must always be rooted in the fundamental theories and traditions of the dance form.