Gandhi Seva Sadan Kathakali and Classical Arts Academy, solely devoted for the training of Kathakali is located at Ottappalam in Palakkad district. Popularly known as Kathakali Sadanam, the institution was founded in 1953 by K. Kumaran, a freedom fighter and patron of classical arts.

The center offers both short term and long-term courses in Kathakali. Members of Kathakali Sadanam have performed at different venues, including in Europe ad different parts of Asia. This is one of the premier institutions in the state dedicated to the learning of classical arts.

In 1973, the center attained the status of an independent unit. Located in a beautiful campus in the village of Perur the center of attraction here is the semi-circular indoor auditorium, which can accommodate around 800 people.