Thrissur: RLV Ramakrishnan has made history by joining Kerala Kalamandalam as its first male dance teacher. He has been appointed as an Assistant Professor in Bharatanatyam, following the position’s announcement two months ago in accordance with UGC guidelines. After a qualification exam and interview process, Ramakrishnan emerged as the top candidate.

The brother of the late actor Kalabhavan Mani, Ramakrishnan is a first-rank holder in Bharatanatyam and Mohiniyattam. His appointment at Kalamandalam is regarded as a significant milestone. Reflecting on his journey, he shared that he views the challenges in his life as stepping stones to success.

This marks the first time a male has been appointed as a dance teacher at Kerala Kalamandalam, a space long considered gender-neutral. While there were no formal restrictions on male appointments, Vice-Chancellor Dr B Anandakrishnan described this as a new chapter for the institution, heralded by Ramakrishnan’s selection.

Along with Ramakrishnan, nine others were also appointed as Assistant Professors today. However, his appointment is seen as a historic shift in the traditions of Kerala Kalamandalam.