Kerala - Kochi   

Serving God through art

Father Michael Panakkal's has been a life dedicated to the service of God through the numerous talents He bestowed on the Catholic priest who became a cultural icon for Kochi.

The large number of works of art on Christian themes and the hymns he composed are etched in the memory of a generation of his students. He is most remembered for the 18 years he spent at the helm of Cochin Arts and Communications (CAC), Kacherippady, from September 1975.

The CAC today boasts of a large number of artists who have passed under its wings bringing the institution great glory. Fr. Panakkal's tenure at CAC was marked by a growth in stature of the institution.

On Saturday, Kerala Cultural Akademi organised a celebration to mark Fr.Panakkal's `Navati' at the Ashir Bhavan. Among those who attended the function were the Minister for Fisheries, S. Sarma, Member of Parliament from Ernakulam, Sebastian Paul; K. V. Thomas, MLA; Mayor Mercy Williams and Bishop of Kottappuram Francis Kallarakkal along with a host of other dignitaries.

Fr. Panakkal was born in March 1916 and joined the Papal Seminary in Kandy in 1936. He was ordained a priest in 1942 and served several parishes and schools, including Don Bosco School. In 1975 he took charge of the CAC, heading it till November 1994.

A book on the life and works of Fr. Panakkal named `Sooryakanti' was released and young singer Kester was honoured at the occasion.

K. A. MARTIN

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