Kerala Kalamandalam to woo foreign students, set to launch international learning centre

Kerala Kalamandalam is embarking on an initiative to establish an international learning centre and facilitate direct admission of foreign students to undergraduate courses. 

As part of this, Dr B Ananthakrishnan, the Vice Chancellor of Kalamandalam, will attend the annual conference of the Association of International Educators (NAFSA) in the United States.

NAFSA is renowned for its efforts in promoting international education and exchange. 

The conference and exhibition are scheduled to take place from May 28 to 31 in New Orleans, USA. 

Kalamandalam will be the first university from the State to participate in this conference.

Kalamandalam holds a unique position in attracting foreigners to Kerala, especially considering its rich century-long legacy. 

Kalamandalam artists have previously showcased Kathakali abroad, attracting students from various foreign countries to the institution.

With Kalamandalam instructors teaching Kathakali and Koodiyattam in renowned foreign universities, there also exists a global interest in traditional Kerala art forms such as Mohiniyattam and Thullal as well.

Despite this widespread enthusiasm, Kalamandalam has witnessed a decline in foreign programmes and foreign student enrollment in recent years.

Private Kathakali groups, however, continue to actively engage in foreign programs.