Nadopasana - A Haven of Music, Dance and Fine Arts

Nadopasana is a center dedicated to the promotion of music, dance, and fine arts. This institution is the brainchild of many visionaries of the CMI Congregation, and over the decades, it has nurtured thousands of accomplished musicians. The very name Nadopasana means "meditation on Nada" - and Nada is none other than Jesus Christ. Christ, the Eternal Guru, continues to be our guiding light and inspiration.

The idea of starting and naming Nadopasana was inspired by Upasana, the premier cultural institution in Thodupuzha, founded by Fr. Albert Nambiaparambil, CMI. During the construction of the Jyothi Super Bazar commercial complex at the very heart of the town, Fr. Nambiaparambil persuaded the members of the Carmel Monastery, Vazhakkulam, to set apart a considerable space for public service to the local community. Both Upasana and Nadopasana continue to function in this prime location, generously provided by the Monastery.

The members and benefactors of these institutions draw their inspiration from the founding Fathers of the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI), who, true to their vision, reached out to communities across Kerala—irrespective of caste, class, or creed.

The Founding of Nadopasana

The seed of Nadopasana was sown by Fr. Joseph Palackal, CMI, while serving as Dean of Studies at Kalabhavan, Kochi. With the wholehearted support of Sunny Vempillil, an accomplished musician and composer, he envisioned a new musical movement in Thodupuzha. Soon, Fr. Antony Urulianickal, CMI, fresh from his music studies at M. S. University, Baroda, joined the venture.

Their efforts received generous encouragement from Fr. Joachim Puzhakkara, CMI, Prior of Carmel Monastery, and Fr. Romeo Pattassery, CMI (1934–2011). The renowned and award-winning film music director Jerry Amaldev also extended his unstinted support. In its earliest days, Sunny Vempillil’s office at Jyothi Super Bazar became the cradle of Nadopasana—where melodies, ideas, and dreams converged, giving birth to many memorable compositions.

Journey of Growth and Leadership

• Fr. Antony Urulianickal, CMI (Director: 1987–2001, 2008–2014)
  His extraordinary talents as a singer and composer enriched Nadopasana immensely. He began formal training in guitar, violin, and keyboard, and composed a vast repertoire of Christian devotional songs, which carried the fame of Nadopasana far beyond Kerala.
• Fr. Kurian Puthenpurackal, CMI (Director: 2001–2008, 2014–2023)
  With remarkable managerial skills, he expanded Nadopasana’s activities by launching dance classes, equipping the choir with a professional sound system, and introducing modern musical instruments, thereby widening its horizons.
• Fr. Prince Parathanal, CMI (Director: 2023 onwards)
  A renowned singer and Hindustani musician, Fr. Prince has sung hundreds of devotional and secular songs across various social media platforms. His creative contributions have brought new dimensions to the institute, blending tradition with contemporary expressions of music.

Since its inception, Shri Sunny Vempillil has been serving faithfully as Secretary, and Mr. Jaison Joseph as Officer-in-charge.

Training, Facilities, and Achievements

Since 1986, more than 8,000 students have been trained at Nadopasana. At present, about 300 students are enrolled in various disciplines under the guidance of accomplished teachers.

• Music Training
  Karnatak Classical Music, Piano, Electric Keyboard, Violin, Guitar, Tabla, Drums, and more.
• Dance Training
  Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, and Folk Dance.
• Fine Arts
  Drawing and Painting classes nurture the creative spirit of young artists.

Nadopasana also prepares students for the graded examinations in piano, violin, and organ conducted by Trinity College, London. Annual Talent Day celebrations, arangettams, and stage performances at various institutions provide ample opportunities for students to showcase their skills before diverse audiences.

Infrastructure and Unique Features

One of Nadopasana’s great strengths is its spacious classrooms and serene ambiance, remarkably maintained in the very heart of the bustling town. The institute offers more than 2,000 sq. ft. of dedicated space, fully equipped with musical instruments, practice rooms, a welcoming visiting area, and modern washroom facilities.

Nadopasana also boasts a full-fledged orchestra, capable of performing for church choirs, liturgical celebrations, and live stage programs.

Our Mission

At Nadopasana, we are dedicated to nurturing musicians, singers, dancers, and art lovers — and, through the arts, shaping individuals into cultured, responsible, and value-oriented citizens. Our journey continues, inspired by the Eternal Guru, Jesus Christ, and guided by the vision of the CMI Fathers.