Kaithapram
Biography
Kaithapram: The Versatile Maestro of Malayalam Arts
Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri, widely recognized as Kaithapram, is a celebrated and multifaceted artist whose profound contributions have shaped the landscape of Malayalam cinema and music. Born on August 4, 1950, in Kannur, Kerala, into a lineage of musicians, Kaithapram’s artistic roots were cultivated early under the guidance of his father, the noted singer Keshavan Namboothiri (Kannadi Bhagavathar), a disciple of the legendary Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavatar. Over the years, Kaithapram distinguished himself as a lyricist, music director, playback singer, actor, screenwriter, director, and an acclaimed Carnatic music performer.
Kaithapram made his cinematic debut as a lyricist with the memorable song “Devadundubhi Sandralayam” in Ennennum Kannettante (1986), directed by Fazil. His lyrical prowess quickly established him as a household name, leading him to pen lyrics for over 1,499 songs across 367 movies. Equally adept as a composer, Kaithapram debuted in music direction with Kottapurathe Koottukudumbam (1997) and produced acclaimed musical scores for films such as Karunyam, Udayapuram Sulthan, Vinayapoorvam Vidyadharan, and Theerthadanam. Not limited to the music department, Kaithapram has appeared in several prominent films—including Swathithirunal, His Highness Abdulla, and Theerthadanam—often embodying the role of a classical or semi-classical musician on screen. His creative talents extended to scripting and directing, with his work on the film Sopanam, and he remains revered for bringing a classical sensibility to popular cinema.
Throughout his illustrious career, Kaithapram has received numerous prestigious awards for his lyrical and musical excellence, and his work is celebrated for bridging classical traditions with contemporary Malayalam film music. His contributions continue to inspire generations, cementing his legacy as a pillar of the Malayalam arts community. He is married to Devi Antharjanam and is the father of Deepankuran, further continuing the musical tradition within his family.
Associated Songs
| Title | Movie |
|---|---|
| Thinkale | Kalyanaraman |
| Kai thudi thalam | Kalyanaraman |
| Kadhayile | Kalyanaraman |
| Raakkadal | Kalyanaraman |
| Kaithappoo ponpodi thooviya | Sandram |
| Mathaappoothiri | Devadoothan |
| Ganapathi Bappa Moriya | Abhimanyu |
| Raamayanakkaatte | Abhimanyu |
| Kandu njan | Abhimanyu |
| Machiyammakku | Bodyguard |