KALA Puraskaram to honour an outstanding contribution to Indian music and cinema
The Kerala Arts and Literary Association (KALA) will mark a significant milestone this year with its 30th Annual Day, bringing together three decades of Kerala’s arts, culture and literature in the UK.
The landmark celebration will take place on Saturday, 17 October 2026, at the Centenary Theatre, Berkhamsted School, Hertfordshire, from 2.45pm to 10.30pm.
The highlight of this year’s celebration will be the presence of renowned Indian music director and singer Sharreth, who will be the Chief Guest and will receive the prestigious KALA Puraskaram in recognition of his outstanding contribution to music and cinema.
Celebrating Sharreth’s musical journey
Born Sujith Vasudevan I in Kollam, Kerala, in 1969, Sharreth has established himself as one of the leading composers and singers in Indian cinema. He has worked extensively in Malayalam cinema and has also contributed to Tamil, Telugu and Hindi films.
Over a career spanning more than four decades, Sharreth has composed numerous memorable film songs and scores. His achievements include the Filmfare Award for Best Music Director in 2008 for Thirakkatha and the Kerala State Film Award for Best Music Director in 2011 for Ivan Megharoopan. He was also the first recipient of the Kerala State Film Award for Best Classical Music Singer, for his rendition of Bhavayami in Meghatheertham.
Beyond film music, Sharreth has played an important role in nurturing musical talent through television, serving as a judge on several popular Malayalam music reality programmes, including Idea Star Singer and Star Singer.
His presence at KALA’s 30th Annual Day is expected to add a special musical dimension to an already significant occasion.
Three decades of KALA
Founded in 1996, the Kerala Arts and Literary Association has spent three decades promoting Kerala’s rich cultural and literary heritage among the Malayali community in Britain.
KALA is a registered UK charity whose objectives include promoting public education in the arts, culture, traditions and literature of Kerala and India, while encouraging young people to develop their creative skills.
Over the years, KALA has created a platform for artists, writers, musicians, dancers and performers from both established and emerging generations. Its activities have extended beyond the annual celebration to include literary and reading initiatives, publications, sports and other community activities.
The organisation’s annual event has become an important fixture in the UK Malayali cultural calendar, providing an opportunity for families and different generations to come together and celebrate their shared heritage.
A programme celebrating Kerala’s culture
The 30th Annual Day promises a varied programme of entertainment, reflecting the breadth of Kerala’s artistic traditions.
The programme will include:
- Dance
- Drama
- Skits
- Songs and music
- Mukhamukham – an opportunity for interaction and conversation
- Dinner with wine
With KALA reaching its 30-year milestone, this year’s celebration is expected to be particularly special, combining entertainment with an appreciation of the organisation’s contribution to Kerala’s cultural life in the UK.
How to Book:
Tickets and further information are available online:
CLICK HERE to Book KALA Annual 2026:
https://kala.org.uk/events/kala-annual-2026/
KALA 30th Annual Day 2026 DATE: Saturday, 17 October 2026 TIME: 2.45pm – 10.30pm
VENUE:Centenary Theatre, Berkhamsted School, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 3BG
For more information and registration, visit kala.org.uk.
