Introduction

C.J.Kuttappan, is the former chairman of Kerala folklore academy. He  is a pioneer in Nadanpaattu. Kuttappan who hails from Thodupuzha, had rediscovered many valuable songs from the old pockets. His contribution towards the art form is priceless. Kuttappan’s innovative thinking and foresight are really played a huge part in popularizing this art form in the state of Kerala. By following his footsteps, nowadays many youngsters arrived in the scenario of folk songs.

Biography

Kuttappan is hails from Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta district. But he spent his childhood days in Udumbanchola,, Idukki. The people who lived there were migrated from the other parts of the state. In childhood, he was lived very near to the forest. They followed a form of group living. Being near to the forest, the threat of wild animals was always there. To protect from this Kuttappan and others used to play drums and sang songs at night. They survived through cattle feeding. Thus Kuttappan and friends used to feed cattle in the open areas with hanging a bell made out of bamboo in their necks. This is used to identify the cattle and that gave a protection to the cattle also. This was the first influence happened in Kuttappan’s life. In 70’s when emergency was declared, the socio-cultural environment of Kerala was thriving and part of this an organization was formed in Thiruvalla. Kuttappan was also a part of this organization and thus his nadanpattu career is started.

Awards

Kuttappan won numerous awards including the Kendra Sangeeth Nataka Academy award.

As Playback Singer

He nearly sung for 25 films including Keralavarama Pazhassi Raja , Kannaki, Karunam, Akashathinte Niram etc.

Position Held

He was the former chairman of folklore academy of Kerala