Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi

The Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi is the apex body for performing arts in Kerala, established on April 26, 1958, and inaugurated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Located in Chembukkavu, Thrissur, it functions under the Department of Culture to train, preserve, and promote music, dance, theatre, and folk arts. The institution hosts regular performances, festivals, workshops, and maintains an extensive library dedicated to performing arts resources.

Visitors can explore a cultural institution dedicated to Kerala's performing arts heritage. The campus features performance venues including theaters and an amphitheater, along with a comprehensive library housing extensive resources on music, dance, drama, and folk arts. Regular expositions of theatre, dance, and folk art are held here. The institution also offers training programs and hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Established on April 26, 1958, and inaugurated by India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. It was created as an autonomous body under the State Government, modelled upon the national Sangeet Natak Akademi, as a cultural initiative formulated by E.M.S. Namboothirippad, the first Chief Minister of Kerala, and Prof. Joseph Mundassery, the then Education Minister.

The Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi serves as the state's premier institution for preserving and promoting Kerala's rich performing arts traditions including Kathakali, Koodiyattam, classical music, dance, theatre, and folk arts. It presents awards and fellowships to artists, organizes festivals and performances, and documents historic art forms of the region.