The Kochi Biennale Foundation is gearing up to unveil an art pavilion at the Manorama Hortus Malayala art and literature festival. The pavilion, which will serve as a vibrant platform for indigenous artists from Malabar, is being brought to Kozhikode by Meitra Hospital.

Faizal Kottikollon, Chairman of Meitra Hospital and founder of KEF Holdings and Thula Wellness Clinic, along with his wife Shabana, emphasize that this initiative aims to serve as a springboard for Malabar artists while helping them maintain their connection with their homeland. origin. They also highlight the untapped potential of Malabar and their perception of the region.

What prompted the decision to bring the Kochi Biennale art pavilion to Hortus?
Our territory is home to countless talented artists. Every time Shabana and I visit, we look for these artists…musicians, painters and more. Although they have a venue in Kozhikode to showcase their skills, many find it difficult to turn their art into a sustainable source of income.

Currently, artists often feel compelled to migrate to Kochi or elsewhere to find opportunities. With the rise of the Kochi Biennale event, Kochi has become a hub for artists. We believe it is essential to create a similar scene in North Kerala. This will enable Kozhikode artists to perform and sell their works locally, thereby generating income without having to leave their native place.

Our dream is to develop the Art Pavilion project on the model of the internationally renowned Nadakkav school project. When we first proposed an international standards school, many were skeptical. Today, this model has been replicated in various locations including Kenya, Bangalore and Srinagar.

What is the significance of original art in the midst of the hectic pace of life?
True happiness comes from sharing the privileges we have in life with others. It is with this awareness that we decided to no longer embark on projects aimed at making money. We should instead focus on education and health – two key areas in crisis. Although governments have their limits, individuals like us can contribute to meaningful change. Art and artists play a crucial role in alleviating human pressure and revitalizing lives.

What are your latest projects?
This vision inspired the launch of our new business, Thula, in Chelari. We thought about how we could combine traditional medicine and modern medical practices. Thula is not designed as a for-profit business. This is the first international initiative of its kind.

Is Hortus Malabaricus your motivation?
Although we have heard of the book Hortus Malabaricus, we have not fully understood its meaning until recently. We have in our hands so much information shared by legends like Itty Achuthan. Our approach focuses on treating illnesses with modern medicine while restoring the body’s natural balance through traditional methods.

How will this provide more opportunities for the local community?
Thula showcases many local talents including craft artists, weavers and Kalaripayattu experts from Kozhikode. This initiative can be seen as an effort to create more opportunities for artists in the region.