All for ace dancer

ODE TO THE TEACHER: The disciples paying obeisance to Kalamandalam Kshemavathi at a programme Gurupranamam, organised by students and well-wishers at Regional Theatre yesterday. Staff Reporter THE cultural capital witnessed an extravaganza called pranamam (salute) when thousands of people walked into Regional Theatre yesterday to honour Padmashree Kalamandalam Kshemavathy. The programme Gurupranamam was organised by her disciples and well-wishers. Honourary meeting was inaugurated by Cultured Minister KC Joseph. He addressed Kshemavathy as the brand ambassador of art and culture of Kerala. The minister assured all support from the government for promoting Kerala's art and culture worldwide. MLA Therambil Rama-krishnan described her as the mobile university of dance. Presence of actors Jayaram and Mukesh added more colour to the function. Mukesh said that her achievements could be an encouragement for all budding artistes. Mayor IP Paul presided over the function. Poet Ravunni, KI Shabeer and C Chandramohan were present. Gurupranamam was kick started at 10am. Morning session saw Kshemavathy honouring her masters draping them with shawls. Co-operation Minister CN Balakrishnan, Padmashree Mattanoor Shankarankutty and Padmashree Peruvanam Kuttan Marar were present at the function. Kshemavathy's disciples and well-wishers from various fields draped her with shawls and presented with mementos.