Folkland cultural performance
Folkland cultural event
Folkland cultural programme
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OTTANTHULLAL

Welcome to Folkland

Celebrating Tradition, Nurturing Culture

FOLKLAND – International Centre for Folklore and Culture is a UNESCO-accredited NGO, focusing primarily on promoting and developing traditional folk arts and culture along with sustainable environmental activities.

About us

FOLKLAND – International Centre for Folklore and Culture is a UNESCO-accredited NGO, focusing primarily on promoting and developing traditional folk arts and culture along with sustainable environmental activities.

About us

Where tradition thrives, sustainability leads, and creativity celebrates heritage. Established in 1989 and accredited by UNESCO, FOLKLAND stands as a vibrant hub for the preservation, revival, and promotion of traditional folk arts and culture, seamlessly integrated with sustainable environmental practices.

Guided by the principle of "Conserve and Sustain", FOLKLAND is committed to nurturing a deep respect for intangible cultural heritage and biodiversity. As a registered society under the Indian Societies Act of 1860, we focus on the conservation, research, and documentation of natural, mixed, and vernacular heritages—both tangible and intangible—alongside traditional folk arts and crafts, with a special emphasis on the rich cultural legacy of Kerala.

Over the decades, FOLKLAND has evolved into a dynamic cultural force, partnering with national institutions, organizations and Govt. Agencies. Our presence on global platforms, including UNESCO, ICCN, IOV and ICCR, reflects our steadfast commitment to promoting cultural diversity and fostering international cultural dialogue.

What's Happening

Upcoming Events

OTTANTHULLAL PERFORMANCE
Sep 23, 2026

OTTANTHULLAL PERFORMANCE

Government Blind School Kasargod

Folkland – International Centre for Folklore and Culture, with the support of Dorf Ketal Chemicals India organizing an Ottanthullal performance.

FABRIC PAINTING CALSS
Oct 3, 2026

FABRIC PAINTING CALSS

FOLKLAND PAYYANNUR

A fabric painting class (6 Months) begins at Folkland Payyannur on 03-10-2026.

Blog Posts

Our Projects

Poila BaithakMusic

Poila Baithak

Kolkata, West Bengal

November 21, 2024 to November 24, 2024

Mudra Dance FestivalDance

Mudra Dance Festival

Mumbai, Maharashtra

November 21, 2024 to November 24, 2024

International Digha Sea Beach DanceDance

International Digha Sea Beach Dance

Digha, West Bengal

November 21, 2024 to November 24, 2024

Kattaikkuttu Sangam's MahabharataArts and Crafts

Kattaikkuttu Sangam's Mahabharata

Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

November 21, 2024 to November 24, 2024

Mumbai Independent Film FestivalArts and Crafts

Mumbai Independent Film Festival

Mumbai, Maharashtra

November 21, 2024 to November 24, 2024

Majuli Music FestivalMusic

Majuli Music Festival

Majuli, Assam

November 21, 2024 to November 24, 2024

Why Choose Us

Choose Us for Expert Cultural Solutions

Folkland - International Centre for Folklore and Culture offers a range of services aimed at promoting and preserving traditional folk arts and culture. Here are six of their key services

Skill Development
Conducting training and workshops focused on cultural heritage and sustainability, enabling participants to acquire and enhance skills related to traditional arts and crafts.
Revival of Intangible Art Forms
Identifying and revitalizing traditional performing arts that are on the verge of extinction, ensuring their transmission to future generations through master-student workshops and performances.
Empowerment and Upliftment
Focusing on empowering women, youth, marginalized communities, transgenders, bisexuals, and specially-abled individuals by providing them with opportunities and training in traditional arts and crafts.
Promotion and Performances
Organizing cultural programs and performances at various forums and institutions, both nationally and internationally, to showcase, promote and conserve intangible cultural heritage.
Heritage Conservation
Actively involved in preserving built heritage through advocacy, detailed documentation, and restoration efforts. Initiatives include the creation of heritage maps and the promotion of heritage walks, all aimed at safeguarding and celebrating historical landmarks.
Educational and Awareness Initiatives
Organizing classes, workshops, and seminars to educate the younger generation about the value of cultural heritage, with a focus on fostering deeper understanding and appreciation of intangible cultural traditions and practices.
What We Do
swirl

Project
Growth Goals.

Clients

2000+

People Working with us and adding value

Clients

30k+

Help New and Existing Clients Discover More Value.

Join us on our journey to celebrate tradition, nurture culture, and safeguard the heritage that enriches our lives. Together, we can ensure that the vibrant tapestry of folk arts and culture continues to thrive for generations to come. Welcome to FOLKLAND, where every story is a celebration of heritage and every step is a testament to our shared cultural legacy.

Testimonials

Don't Just Take Our Word For It

At Folkland, we're committed to providing our clients with exceptional Cultural services and customer support.

Geetha M K
Geetha M K

Entrepreneur

5.0
A craft person becomes an Entrepreneur

I am Geetha from Ramanthali village. I am happy and proud that I was the first woman who got skilled training under CSR Initiative of Dorf Ketal at Folkland and was able to open a craft shop which gives me enough income for my family and me. I have got training from Folkland in mural painting for about six months I had also undergone skill training in Nettipattam, Crochet and umbrella-making with this experience in the craft and the inspiration given by Folkland compelled me to open a craft shop. My shop housed several pieces of my craftwork. Moreover, I am so happy that this shop was inaugurated by a world-famous artist Shri. Padmasree Bansi Kaul on 23rd June 2019. I am also happy to say that my shop was blessed by Deepika Subodh Menon, Sivank Menon and Shri Santhosh Jagdane with their visit.

Sreeja K V
Sreeja K V

Artist

5.0
Painting a bright future

Sreeja, wife of a poor theyyam artist, paints her life through Mural painting and breaks the male-centred mural tradition. "Ours is a traditional performing community," says Sreeja, a young woman from Kothayimukku village in Kannur district of Kerala. She adds, "I am 35, have a Pre-degree education, and I intend to do the mural painting. However, unfortunately, I could not achieve my goal for a long time". Under the Women Empowerment Program under the initiative of Dorf Ketal through Folkland, I have joined the mural painting course at Folkland Payyanur. With those mural painting skills through the six months training course, I could earn a living. Today, I am a self-made painter and getting substantial income from this. My husband, my children and I are happy now.

Deepa Gangan
Deepa Gangan

Teacher

5.0
An ideal craft teacher

"It gives me a great sense of pride," says 40-year-old Deepa, adding, "I enjoy every bit of it." Deepa, who works as a trainer of Handicrafts, is responsible for many skill training courses such as bag making and embroidery. Admired and supported by the trainees at work, Deepa brims with confidence as she proudly trained 50 women as a part of Women Empowerment program of Dorf Ketal and Folkland. Just a year ago, she was an introvert woman having learnt the skill from North India while her husband was in naval service. However, now she is capable of extending skilled-training to many.

Rathi K
Rathi K

Caterer

5.0
A Culinary Journey Beyond Borders: Passion, Innovation, and Recognition

I'm a homemaker by passion and a caterer by profession. I have been officially catering Folkland ICFC on several occasions and their travel to various countries. The opportunity to travel across the world and try new distinctive flavors and varieties of cuisines drastically improved my career, where I could create new dishes and innovate ideas by infusing my gained knowledge into the business. Being recognized for the effort and sacrifices we women make should not be limited to a day; it has to be overlooked and acknowledged every single day.

Suhara Beevi
Suhara Beevi

Farmer

5.0
Empowering Women Every Day: A Farmer's First Recognition

I'm a proud farmer and a great admirer of Folkland's activities and efforts, especially empowering in and supporting women. This is my first ever recognition, and it has really made me feel more motivated and affirmative. Women are underestimated and pushed back in many fields. If everyone can have this kind of respect and outlook all the time, every day will be a woman's day!

Afsal Sahir Gurukkal
Afsal Sahir Gurukkal

Chief Instructor & Secretary, Enavoor Kalari Society

5.0
A Milestone Moment for Enavoor Kalari

A Milestone Moment for Enavoor Kalari I am the Chief Instructor of Enavoor Kalari and also the Secretary of the Enavoor Kalari Society. Although we have performed at many events before, recently, my 14 students had the rare opportunity to perform in connection with the 9th General Assembly of ICCN in Kozhikode, hosted by Folkland – International Centre for Folklore and Culture. The presence of renowned international personalities and foreign artists made this a truly significant event. Being able to perform before such a distinguished audience was an incredible confidence booster for our students and a proud milestone for Enavoor Kalari itself. These were truly proud and memorable moments for me and my students. We were also honoured to receive certificates for our participation, which added even more meaning to the experience. We owe this wonderful opportunity to Mr. Jayarajan, the Chairman of Folkland, whose support made it all possible. I will always hold him in my heart with deep gratitude and respect. – Afsal Sahir Gurukkal Chief Instructor & Secretary, Enavoor Kalari Society

Ramadevi
Ramadevi

Nettipattam Training Participant

5.0
This Course Gave Me Hope When Life Felt Impossible

This Course Gave Me Hope When Life Felt Impossible Life hasn’t been easy for me. I’m Ramadevi, and due to swelling in my legs, I can’t take on physically demanding work. At home, I care for my husband, who is struggling with kidney disease and severe breathing problems after losing vision in one eye. Our only breadwinner was my son, an auto driver. But after a recent accident, he is now bedridden. With no steady income, every day felt like a fight for survival. Despite all this, I never gave up. I stayed at home and tried to support my family through soap making, tailoring, and rearing cattle. But it was barely enough. Just when things were at their hardest, I heard about the Nettipattam-making course conducted by Folkland with the CSR support of Dorf Ketal at Prabodhini Library, Aramula. I joined with a heart full of hope, and today, I truly believe this course can change my life. It’s not just about learning a skill; it’s about reclaiming dignity, independence, and the confidence to stand on my own feet again. I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity and look forward to building a better future for my family.

Rajesh Kumar Kunjimangalam
Rajesh Kumar Kunjimangalam

Mural Art Training Participant

5.0
When Tradition Inspires, Lives Transform

Learning mural painting had always been a cherished dream of mine. That dream began to take shape when a disciple of renowned mural artist K. R. Babu Master arrived in Kunjimangalam to teach. I eagerly assisted him by handling paints and brushes, asking questions, and absorbing everything I could. It was through Folkland, with the support of the CSR initiative of Dorf Ketal, that I got the opportunity to attend a mural painting class conducted in Payyanur. Although balancing work and household responsibilities made it challenging, my passion for learning pushed me forward. I managed to attend four classes, and those few sessions opened my eyes to the true depth and beauty of mural art. Even while facing some physical difficulties, the experience was truly transformative. Participating in the mural classes brought positive changes to me both mentally and physically. It was more than just learning an art form—it became a deeply meaningful and healing experience.

Preethi P. J.
Preethi P. J.

Nettipattam Training Participant

5.0
A Journey of Strength and Skill

I have always been engaged in cow rearing and tailoring. However, after an unfortunate accident that fractured my shoulder bone, I found myself unable to continue my work. It was during this difficult phase that I came to know about the Nettipattam-making training conducted by Folkland, Payyanur, at NSS Karayogam. Joining this training turned out to be a turning point in my life. The classes were not only well-organized and skill-oriented but also deeply empowering. With the confidence and knowledge I gained, I now strongly believe that I can start a small unit of my own and build a sustainable livelihood. This training didn’t just teach me a traditional craft; it helped me rebuild my confidence, hope, and belief in a better future.

Anagha K
Anagha K

Student, MRVH School, Padanna

5.0
A Memorable Folk Music Feast

In connection with World Music Day, our school, MRVH School, Padanna, hosted a vibrant folk music celebration that became a truly enriching experience for all of us students. The event featured a delightful blend of traditional songs, including folk tunes, ancient lullabies, and Navoor songs, creating a deeply cultural atmosphere. The programme was organized with the support of Folkland, Payyanur, with the CSR support of Dorf Ketal, making the occasion even more special. We were also introduced to various traditional musical instruments, many of which were unfamiliar to us, giving us an opportunity to discover the richness and diversity of our cultural heritage. Alongside the music, we enjoyed folk dances such as Karakatam and Mayilattam (Peacock Dance), which brought colour, energy, and rhythm to the stage. We also had the opportunity to participate in the singing and dancing, making the programme an interactive and joyful experience. This unique celebration of our traditional music was not only entertaining but also educational. It gave both students and teachers a deeper appreciation of our cultural roots and the importance of preserving our rich folk traditions.

Shafna A. V
Shafna A. V

Student, MRVH School, Padanna

5.0
A Glimpse into the World of Chakyar Koothu

I had only heard the name Chakyar Koothu, but I had never truly known what it was. Thanks to the event conducted at our school in collaboration with Folkland, Payyanur, with the CSR support of Dorf Ketal, I, along with my fellow students, had the rare opportunity to witness and experience this traditional art form firsthand. It filled us with a deep sense of pride and curiosity. There was a strong sense of curiosity among all of us to understand what exactly Chakyar Koothu was. What we discovered was extraordinary. It is a powerful traditional performing art that uses humour and satire to comment on social issues and human behaviour, conveying meaningful messages through performance. The performance we witnessed was based on the Vanara Sena (Monkey Army) episode from the Mahabharata, and it captivated us from the very beginning. The expressive style of the performer, the engaging presentation, and the elaborate costume of Chakyar Koothu left a lasting impression on our minds. The programme helped us understand and appreciate the richness of Kerala’s traditional performing arts and inspired us to learn more about our cultural heritage.

Pushpalatha
Pushpalatha

Tholpavakoothu Performer

5.0
A Life Dedicated to the Art of Tholpavakoothu

In the olden days, Tholpavakoothu was known as Nizhalattam (shadow play). Ever since I married into a family deeply rooted in this traditional art form, I too developed a deep love and respect for it. It became a part of our daily life to bring leather, cut out different characters, and perform shows using them. My husband, children, and I all actively participate in these performances. Our family had the rare opportunity to travel to many foreign countries to present Tholpavakoothu on international stages. This opportunity came through the support of Folkland, Payyanur, with the CSR support of Dorf Ketal. We have also performed in schools across Kerala under the banner of Folkland. Among the various districts, we have performed most frequently in Ernakulam and Palakkad. Today, it brings me immense joy and pride to share this beautiful and rare art form with children across Kerala, helping them understand and appreciate what Tholpavakoothu truly is. As this ancient tradition gradually faces the risk of fading away, Folkland has played an important role in creating stages and opportunities to keep this art form alive. I will always carry deep gratitude and respect in my heart for their efforts.

Ponnan Mooppan
Ponnan Mooppan

Ramarkkoothu Performer

5.0
From the Forest to the Stage: Our Voice Through Ramarkkoothu

We belong to the Irula tribal community. Among us, there are two traditional art forms that are on the verge of extinction — Ramarkkoothu and Harishchandra Koothu. These unique art forms exist only within the Irula community. To bring this fading tradition to light, Folkland, in collaboration with Dorf Ketal, reached out to our community by visiting our settlements deep within the forest. They discovered our artists and provided us with a one-month training programme at Dr. Ambedkar School in Attappady. As part of this initiative, a cultural event called “Tribal Fest” was organized at the same school, where our Ramarkkoothu was presented on stage. An art form that we once believed could never return to the stage was revived and brought into the spotlight through the efforts of Folkland and Dorf Ketal. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to preserve, practise, and share our traditional art with a wider audience. This experience has given us renewed hope and pride in our cultural heritage.

dorf_kethal

Our CSR Partner

Founded in 1992, Dorf Ketal was driven by passion and inspired by innovation. Our excellence is not restricted to our scope of business. We want to give back to society not merely to abide by the social responsibility mandates, but to do some real good for society. The aim is to be the leading example of a corporate citizen with social responsibility by empowering vulnerable lives and transforming society into a better place. Our endeavours don't end with the facilitation and empowerment of our beneficiaries. We make our presence felt even at a grassroots level. We work hand in hand with our partners from inception to completion of every project. In other words, it's not just the glory that we share with our partners, we share the hard work as well.

Read More

Who We Are

Meet our Team

Just take a look - each member of the team is watching your every gesture and will hear your every whisper.

Dr. V Jayarajan
Dr. V Jayarajan
Founder & Chairman
Is a distinguished academician and cultural leader with a rich background in folklore and anthropology. He holds bachelor's degrees in Economics and Law from Kerala, a postgraduate degree in Sociology and Folklore, and a Ph.D. in Social Anthropology from Mysore University, Karnataka. With decades of experience in teaching and research, he is the founder and Chairman of Folkland – International Centre for Folklore and Culture, based in Kerala. Dr. Jayarajan has served as the Vice President of the Indian Folklore Congress and has travelled extensively, delivering lectures on folklore and culture across various countries. A visiting faculty member at several universities, he also serves as the Convener of the INTACH Kasaragod Chapter. He has received numerous honors, including Junior and Senior Fellowships from the Ministry of Culture, the William Evans Visiting Fellowship from Otago University in New Zealand, and a Certificate of Appreciation from IGRMS, Bhopal in 2016. He represented Folkland at UNESCO ICH intergovernmental Committee to provide advisory services, in particular through the Evaluation Body. He has served on expert committees of the Ministry of Culture and the Sangeet Natak Akademi. Since 2013, he has been on the Board of Studies at Kannur University. Currently, Dr. Jayarajan holds the prestigious position of Secretary General of the Inter-City Intangible Cultural Cooperation Network (ICCN), an organization accredited to UNESCO. He is also a member of the Editorial Board of Heritage Alive, an international journal on handicrafts published from Norway, and an advisor to Culture Masters, an organization based in the Republic of Korea.
K Sureshan
K Sureshan
Program Officer
The senior-most staff member and a renowned artist, celebrated for his performances in Poorakkali and Kurathiyattam, was honored with the Kerala Folklore Akademy Award for Kurathiyattam in 2022, recognizing his exceptional expertise and contribution to the art form.
Rajitha V M
Rajitha V M
Field Officer
Rajitha V M, an artist and Field Officer, is responsible for overseeing projects related to Women Empowerment, Sustainable Development through Art, and Heritage Awareness among School Children. An active and accomplished theatre artist, she has received numerous awards and honors for her outstanding contributions to the field.
Sreeja C V
Sreeja C V
Accounts Officer
Sreeja oversees the organization's accounts and handles its day-to-day management. As the head of the accounts section, she also plays a key role in managing the organization's CSR activities.
Neenu Sukumaran
Neenu Sukumaran
Programme Coordinator
Neenu Sukumaran coordinates Folkland's initiatives with the Ministry of Culture and oversees the CSR activities of Dorf Ketal. She also manages programs related to ICCN and Culture Masters.
Aswathi Suresh T V
Aswathi Suresh T V
Trainee
A Folkland trainee assisting with accounts and projects related to the Ministry of Culture.
Vaisakh
Vaisakh
Trainee
A Folkland trainee assisting with projects related to the CSR initiatives of Dorf Ketal.

Contact us

Any question? We would be happy to help you!

Email

folklandkerala89@gmail.com

Address

FOLKLAND International Centre for
Folklore & Culture Elambachi (P.O),
Trikaripur, Kasaragod,
Kerala, India, 671311.

Corporate Office

Kokkanissery, Payyanur, Kannur, Kerala, 670307.

+91 9847 305 699

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