Cochin Kalabhavan London Stages Spectacular Adaptation of Malayalam Classic ‘Chemmeen’

The UK Chapter of Cochin Kalabhavan, a prestigious center for performing arts in Kochi, India, hosted a dance festival, community awards ceremony, and cultural programs on April 12, 2025, at the Campion School in Hornchurch. The event’s highlight was a captivating stage adaptation of the timeless Malayalam classic film ‘Chemmeen.’

Drama: The Soul of Society – By Manoj Siva

Drama holds a profound place in the life of any community. Its absence often signals a deeper cultural and emotional decay. For expatriate communities, this need becomes even more pressing. In unfamiliar lands, drama becomes more than just art—it is a lifeline that connects hearts to their roots, revives memories of home, and nourishes both emotional and social well-being. It’s a celebration of unity, storytelling, and healing.

A shining example of this was witnessed on April 12, 2025, when Kalabhavan London, under the visionary direction of Jason, brought Chemmeen to life on stage. Adapted from the legendary movie Chemeen based on the novel Chemeen by Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai, this theatrical experience was a moving portrayal of love, loss, superstition, and the raw struggles of a coastal fishing community.

The production masterfully recreated the haunting romance between Karuthamma and Pareekutty, with Jaison and Jithu Arun breathing new life into these iconic characters. Their performances captured the emotional intensity and delicate nuances of forbidden love, making the tragedy deeply personal and relatable.

Bladwin Simon’s portrayal of Chemban Kunju, the father whose greed leads to destruction, was strikingly powerful. Jane K. John graced the stage with elegance, while Vimala’s depiction of Chacki Marakkathi—full of maternal pain and silent endurance—left a lasting impact. Keerthi Somarajan as the conflicted father and Yamini Mithun as the innocent young girl added emotional layers that resonated deeply with the audience. Shreya’s portrayal of Panchami, the lone survivor and a symbol of resilience and female agency, stood out as a compelling voice for freedom.

Supporting performances by Muralidharan, Vatsalan, Jithin, Sunit, Harish, and Vimal enriched the production with depth and sincerity. The ebb and flow of the sea were mirrored through stirring music and rhythmic movement, recreating the world of Chemmeen with breathtaking authenticity.

Dance sequences by Soumya Shaiju, Rani Raghu Lal, Ammu Samuel, Dhanya Kevin, JC Jaimon, and Poja Thambi elevated the visual and auditory experience, weaving grace and cultural essence into the storytelling.

The script, meticulously crafted by Ajit Paliyath, and Jason’s inspired direction turned Chemmeen into a cultural landmark for the Malayali diaspora in London. With technical brilliance from Subhash and Vathsalan, the play achieved a modern yet emotionally rooted expression that resonated with all generations.

Chemmeen was not just a play—it was a heartfelt tribute to heritage, memory, and the enduring power of storytelling. Through such passionate artistry, drama continues to bloom, reminding us of who we are and where we come from.

May this flame of creativity continue to burn brightly, spreading love, connection, and cultural pride through every stage it graces.