What is "kalabhavan"

Kalabhavan (, meaning "the house of arts") or Kalabhavan Kochi is a centre for learning performing arts in Kochi, India. Kalabhavan is notable and known for being the first organized performing mimicry group in Kerala and which popularised the art of mimicry in the state of Kerala. Ever since its founding, Kalabhavan has served as a grooming centre for acting aspirants. Hence, Kalabhavan has contributed numerous actors as well as film directors to Malayalam cinema.

Founded on September 3, 1969, by C.M.I. priest Fr. Abel, what Kalabhavan initially took up was producing Christian religious songs. Later they moved on to 'Ganamela' (Concerts for film songs). Mimicry performances of individual artists were used as 'fillers' in between stage programs. Later, mimicry was organized as a team event to form the now popular 'Mimics Parade'.

The professional mimicry troupe of Kalabhavan began with a team of 6 consisting of Siddique, Lal, Anzar, K. S. Prasad Varkkichan and Rahman (comedy actor) . It was this team that invented 'Mimics Parade' in the present form.

In 2015 Kalabhavan opened its UAE centre at Sharjah (Kalabhavan Sharjah)