India // Kerala //  Around Thrissur  CHERUTHURUTHY, on the banks
of the Bharatpuzha (aka “Nila”) River 32km north of Thrissur, is
internationally famous as the home of Kerala Kalamandalam, the
state’s flagship training school for kathakali and other
indigenous Keralan performing arts. The academy was founded in
1927 by the revered Keralan poet Vallathol (1878–1957), and has
since been instrumental in the large-scale revival of interest
in unique Keralan art forms. Non-Hindus are welcome to attend
performances of kathakali, kudiyattam and mohiniyattam performed
in the school’s wonderful theatre, which replicates the style of
the wooden, sloping-roofed traditional kuttambalam auditoria
found in Keralan temples. You can also sit in on classes, watch
demonstrations of mural painting, and visit exhibitions of
costumes by signing up for the fascinating “a day with the
masters” cultural programme (Mon–Sat 9.30am–1.30pm; $20,
including lunch).  Buses heading to Shoranur from Thrissur’s
Priya Darshini (aka “Wadakkanch