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As part of the birth centenary celebrations of the legendary artist Namboothiri, whose distinctive illustrative work and visual imagination transformed contemporary painting in Kerala, an exhibition of his selected film location sketches has opened at Kairali Theatre. The exhibition was inaugurated by acclaimed filmmaker and former Kerala State Chalachitra Academy Chairman, T. K. Rajeev Kumar.

Speaking at the event, Rajeev Kumar reflected on Namboothiri’s rare ability to imbue characters with sensitivity to humanitarian concerns, historical context, and individual traits. “His keen powers of observation shine through in every sketch,” he noted, adding that there is a strong intent to bring Namboothiri’s dynamic and expressive lines to a wider audience in the near future.

The exhibition showcases 22 carefully selected location sketches created by Namboothiri for films, offering an intimate glimpse into his dual worlds of visual art and cinema. Alongside his work as a visual artist, Namboothiri also appeared on screen in films such as Thumb and Sopanam, making these sketches a vivid extension of his artistic and cinematic journey.

Displayed at Kairali Theatre, the sketches are part of a broader visual experience at the festival, which includes experiential installations and a dedicated exhibition on filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak, creating a layered space where memory, art, and cinema intersect.

The inauguration was attended by KSCA Secretary C. Ajoy, Lalithakala Academy Secretary-in-charge Raji S. Pillai, Namboothiri Samman Trustee and Kerala Cartoon Academy Chairman Sudheernath, KSCA Vice Chairperson Cuckoo Parameswaran, KSCA Member Sohan Seenulal, and General Council Member Santosh Keezhattur, underscoring the collaborative spirit that continues to celebrate Namboothiri’s enduring legacy.