Navarang was founded in 2002 by Kannan Palakkad, K. Jayanarayanan, and K. Sreenivasan under the guidance of veteran theatre visionary K. Govindan, who played a pivotal role in establishing children’s theatre in Palakkad. With K. Govindan’s profound wisdom and artistic influence, Navarang has evolved into a strong and dynamic theatre group, now recognized as one of the leading children’s theatre groups in India.
In Tribute to
K. Govindan:
The Soul of Navarang
Govindan Palakkad was more than just a theatre practitioner; he was the heart and driving force behind Navarang. With a profound dedication to theatre, he shaped the path of children’s theatre in Palakkad and left an indelible mark on every stage he touched. Though his genius went unrecognized by many, his legacy lives on in every performance, every workshop, and every young artist who walks through Navarang’s doors. This tribute honors the man whose spirit continues to inspire us.
Our Mission and Vision
Creating a Platform for Learning and Expression
Navarang aims to provide a platform where every aspect of theatre becomes a learning opportunity. We envision theatre as a powerful tool in the civilizing movement, nurturing creativity and sensitivity in individuals of all ages.
Focus on Children’s Theatre
Recognizing the importance of shaping young minds, Navarang places a special focus on children’s theatre. Through regular classes, workshops, and various theatre activities, we aim to help children up to 16 years old understand themselves, their surroundings, and the world. Our programs encourage children to express their feelings, think creatively, and grow as responsible citizens.
Key Achievements
- Navarang’s children have participated in the prestigious “Jashnebachpan” national children’s theatre festival organized by the National School of Drama, Delhi, three times.
- Our young artists have also performed at national festivals across India, including Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Dehradun, and Kerala.
Our Journey
Building a Theatre Community in Palakkad
Since its inception, Navarang has been organizing workshops, classes, seminars, and symposiums for children and adults throughout the year. We believe in nurturing young talents through theatre games, study sessions, and creative expression activities, making theatre an integral part of their education.
MEET our TEAM
Mr. Kannan Palakkad – Founder and Artistic Director
Kannan Palakkad, a renowned theatre personality in Kerala, has been actively involved in theatre for over 30 years. He founded Navarang and has been serving as its Artistic Director since its inception. A student of Rangachethana, a Sunday theatre group founded by the theatre legend Vayala Vasudevan Pillai, Kannan has trained in various theatre disciplines, including acting, lighting, set design, and property making at renowned institutions like the School of Drama-Thrissur and the NSD Regional Resource Centre – Bangalore.
Kannan’s inventive directorial talents have led him to direct many notable plays by well-known writers, including C.N. Sreekantan Nair, Sankara Pillai, and Tagore. He currently heads the Theatre Department at a CBSE school managed by Lions Club International in Palakkad.
Mr. K. Jayanarayanan – Founder and President
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