Traditional Kerala Percussion Ensembles (Melam)
Available across Bengaluru
We perform authentic Kerala temple percussion like Panchari Melam and Panchavadhyam with large groups led by experienced artists for festivals, Onam, and cultural events in Bangalore and beyond.
Pricing Guide
Compact Processional Melam (7-10 Artists)
Ensemble Composition
- Team Size: 7 to 10 Percussionists.
- Instrument Mix: Includes 3-4 Uruttu Chenda (lead treble drums), 3-4 Valamthala Chenda (bass drums), and 2-3 Ilathalam (cymbals).
- Note: This setup does not include wind instruments (Kombu or Kuzhal).
Performance Specifics
- Mobility: Dynamic setup capable of walking with a Baraat or procession.
- Style: Fast-paced rhythmic beats (Shinkari or basic Melam cycles) designed for movement.
- Volume: Acoustic projection suitable for outdoor crowds of 100-200 people.
Attire & Logistics
- Uniform: Authentic Kerala wear featuring white Mundu with Kasavu border.
- Transport: Travel costs for artists and gear included within city limits.
- Equipment: Sticks, skins, and maintenance materials included.
Classical Melam Orchestra (15-25 Artists)
Ensemble Composition
- Team Size: 15 to 25 Artists arranged in a semi-circular formation.
- Wind Section: Adds melodic texture with Kuzhal (pipes) and Kombu (C-shaped horns).
- Percussion: Balanced mix of Uruttu (treble) and Valamthala (bass) Chendas backed by a row of Ilathalams.
- Leadership: Led by a Mela Pramani (Conductor) from the academy faculty.
Performance Specifics
- Repertoire: Performs structured classical cycles like Panchari (6-beat) or Pandi (4-beat).
- Progression: Systematic acceleration from slow, majestic beats to high-speed crescendos.
- Requirements: Best suited for a static spot or very slow movement due to orchestra size.
Logistics
- Travel: Includes dedicated Mini Bus transport for the troupe.
- On-site: Requires a designated changing area and hydration support from the host.
Grand Pooram Ensemble (30-50+ Artists)
Ensemble Composition
- Team Size: 30 to 50+ Performers creating a 'Wall of Sound'.
- Expanded Sections: Includes 5-7 Kombu and 5-7 Kuzhal artists to cut through the heavy percussion.
- Leadership: Directed by a Senior Maestro (like Shri Kalavadhyam Dheeraj Edat) for precise synchronization.
Performance Specifics
- Scale: Recreates the 'Simha Garjjanam' (Lion's Roar) acoustic effect found in major temple festivals.
- Content: Full version of Melams including the 'Kalasam' (synchronized finale where all artists strike in unison).
- Visuals: High-quality matching costumes for the entire troupe to appear as a single unit.
Logistics
- Transport: Heavy vehicle logistics (Luxury Bus) included.
- Support: Includes dedicated helpers for instrument maintenance during the show.
- Space: Requires a large courtyard or stage area to accommodate the multi-row formation.
About Traditional Kerala Percussion Ensembles (Melam)
More Than Just a Group
For us at Kalavadhyam, this isn't just a bunch of artists - ithu nammade kudumbam aanu (this is our family). We've spent over 15 years in Bangalore keeping Kerala's temple art forms alive, especially the real power of Chenda Melam.
The Melam Vibe
Melam is not just a show for us - it's a proper emotion, like simham pole garjikkunna sangeetham (music roaring like a lion). Every event, we pour in that same energy. Our main thing is Panchari Melam - the classic temple percussion, starting slow and building up tempo. We also do Pandi Melam for that festival rush, and Panchavadhyam, where five instruments come together. And honestly, we don't skip the other forms either - Chembada, Dhruvam, Adantha - all included.
Our Crew
Kalavadhyam Kshethra Vaadhyakala Sangham is full of people serious about tradition. We can get 40, 50, or even 80+ artists together if needed – it's a proper spectacle. Our Mela Pramani (leader) is always someone with experience; most times, it's our own guru, Shri Kalavadhyam Dheeraj Edat. We've played under some big maestros too.
Where You’ll Find Us
- Temple festivals (we’ve done Poorams all over Karnataka and Kerala)
- Onam celebrations in Bangalore for families and companies
- Cultural programs that want that authentic Kerala touch
- Arangettam support for debut performances
Keeping It Real for the Next Gen
Our goal is simple: Kalavadhyam's style and tradition should live on. Nammal ithu adutha thalamurakku kodukkanam (we have to pass this to the next gen). We’re proud to have women artists and a kids’ batch—future padanaayakanmaar (leaders) coming up!
Meet your Expert
Kalavadhyam
My Story
Namaskaram, we are Kalavadhyam. For us, this is not just a group, it’s a gurukulam, a family. We started in Bangalore with just oru cheriya spark (a small spark) to keep Kerala’s chenda alive here. Now, 800+ students, some even performing at Thrissur Pooram and big temples. Our hearts swell seeing our 'sthree saannidhyam' (female presence) on stage. Tradition is our backbone, guided by legendary aashans. Kalavaadyathinte paarambaryam (our tradition) will live through our next gen. Culture, tradition, that’s us.
My Work
Performances & Classes - We perform Chenda Melam, Panchavadhyam for festivals and run Kalavadhyam Academy. Classes for chenda, ilathaalam, more.
Traditional Kerala Percussion Training - Our shyli is pure classical. Classes follow kshethra style, shaastriya shyli, keeping it real.
Inclusive Learning - Anyone above 7 can join. We have exclusive ladies chenda batch and welcome all with passion.
Expert Gurus - Learn from Gurunaadhan Shri Dheeraj Edat and visiting legends. Knowledge passed down directly.
Online Chenda Melam Classes - Can’t come to Bangalore? Join our Kalavadhyam Gurukulam online platform. Learn from anywhere.
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