Kalanilayam is the largest permanent drama institution/ venue in Asia. It is one of the oldest drama group in India, founded in 1963.

Kalanilayam was started by Krishnan Nair (commonly known as Kalanilayam Krishnan Nair) and his wife Kodungaloor Ammini Amma whose aim was to popularize popular fiction, fantasy stories on stage. The first show took place at Putharikandam Ground, Trivandrum. Kurukshethra (opera), directed by Krishnan Nair, penned by Kavalam Narayana Panicker, was selected for the debut performance. Kalanilayam's style of presenting the drama was far different from other popular drama groups in Kerala. Using all possibilities of stage, the drama was a great treat for the audience. The unthinkable performances before their eye made the audience sat spellbound.

Most of the Kalanilayam plays were written by ace playwright Jagathy NK Achari-, father of famous stage/film artist Jagathy Sreekumar. During the Sixties to Seventies, Kalanilayam revolutionised Malayalam theatre with its dramas like Raktharakshass, Kayamkulam Kochunni, Kadamattathu Kathanar, Iravikkodu Pillai, Naradan Keralathil, Taj Mahal, Sree Guruvayoorappan and Alavudinum Athbhuthavilakkum.

Actor V.T. Aravindaksha Menon won the National Award for best actor for his portrayal of Kayamkulam Kochunni. Jagathy Sreekumar,Poojappura Ravi, C.I. Paul, Oduvil Unnikrishnan, Vincent and Meena were other popular actors who donned the grease in various Kalanilayam productions.

Kalanilayam's magical stage now at

Venue       : T.P Jn, Thelicherry, Kerala

Show time : 6.30 & 9.30 pm

Ticket Rate: Rs.150,100,50