Founded on October 9, 1990, by T.S. Radhakrishnan, Kalamandhir began as a modest dance school with a powerful mission: to become a sanctuary where students could immerse themselves in the classical arts. This humble institution, inaugurated by Radhakrishnan’s mentor, Guru V.R. Surendran, on the auspicious day of Vijayadashami, has since grown into a revered institution for students and practitioners alike. Today, Kalamandhir serves as a comprehensive arts institution that celebrates Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, theater, music, and more—all united under one roof in Kochi.

T.S. Radhakrishnan’s personal journey began at the age of eight, guided by the masterful teaching of Guru Surendran, who imparted his knowledge of Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, and folk dance. Radhakrishnan’s talent and dedication soon led him to competitive success, securing accolades such as first place in Bharatanatyam at the prestigious ATHAM competition in Tripunithura in 1987. Driven by his passion, he expanded his skills to include choreography and nattuvangam, collaborating with leading performers like Miss Kerala Reshma George at the Soorya Festival. His position as Head of the Fine Arts Department at Chinmaya Vidyalaya in Vaduthala is a testament to his dedication to arts education and his vision for a new generation of artists.

In 1998, Radhakrishnan’s journey took on new depth when he married Seema Krishnankutty, a dancer with her own legacy of awards and early achievements. Under the tutelage of Aroor RLV Sunil Kumar, Seema excelled in Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, winning numerous district-level competitions in Bharatanatyam and folk dance from a young age. This mutual commitment to the arts became the foundation for Kalamandhir’s evolution. Together, they have fostered an institution that is both deeply rooted in classical tradition and committed to innovation in the arts.

With an initial batch of 13 students, Kalamandhir has cultivated a lineage of celebrated dancers and artists who continue to carry forward its legacy. Among these accomplished alumni is Sumesh T.S., a standout performer who earned first place in Bharatanatyam at both district and state levels. Other distinguished talents include Vinny Joseph, Vishnu Pradeep, Rinu Shaji, Nithin V.B., Athul Krishnan, Anjana Radhakrishnan, and Anjitha Radhakrishnan. Each alumnus reflects Kalamandhir’s core values of resilience, discipline, and reverence for the classical arts, shining on stages across India and representing the institution’s mission with pride and skill.

Notable alumni also include: RLV Vinitha Sudheer, RLV Riya, RLV Sumesh, and Kalashekthra Pramitha Aneesh, RLV Anju Vijayan, RLV Anjali Shibimon, RLV Sreeshamole, Sreedevi Shasthri, RLV Subesh, Jini Dhilu; RLV Seema Raju, and Ajitha.

These talented individuals, many of whom have become professional artists, are ambassadors of Kalamandhir’s legacy of artistic excellence. They embody the spirit of the institution, not only through their technical prowess but also by exemplifying the dedication and passion that Kalamandhir instills in each of its students. As representatives of this legacy, they inspire and uplift audiences and aspiring artists alike, reflecting the institution’s enduring impact on the classical arts community.