The institution was formed under the Travancore Cochin Literary, Scientific and Charitable Societies Registration act of 1955. It began functioning on 20 January 1996,[1] to impart training in folk arts and to ensure ongoing efforts in their development, promotion and perpetuation. In 2003, the State Government handed over the waterside palace of the Chirakkal kings, at Chirakkal, to the academy to use as their headquarters.[2]
Former secretary of the academy, M. Pradeep Kumar says, "the academy, recently in its study and analysis, have identified various other folklore art forms which are a part of our rich cultural heritage. Brahmini Paattu, Chaatt Paattu, Chakra Paattu, Kadal Vanchi Paattu and the tribal songs are the recent additions to the folklore art. There are different types of tribal and traditional songs. The tribal songs of each ‘Ooru’ (a tribal colony) are different. There are nearly 1000 folk art forms existing in Kerala, which have been passed on from generation to generation."[3]
Awards
The academy awards prizes and fellowships to notable artistes and experts in the field of folklore.[4] The fellowships comprise ₹15000 each and citation. The folklore awards and book award carries ₹7500 and citation. The Gurupooja and Yuvaprathibha award winners will get ₹5000 each and citation.[5][6]
P. K. Kalan Award
P. K. Kalan award was instituted in 2008, in the name of former academy chairman, Gaddika artist and social activist P. K. Kalan. It is awarded for contributions to the field of folk art forms. It comprises a cash prize of ₹100,000, a certificate and a statuette.[7]