Vadakanchery: Renowned dancer and activist Mallika Sarabhai could soon be removed as Chancellor of Kerala Kalamandalam, with growing pressure within the institution to replace her amid concerns over mounting financial strain.

A pro-administration group within Kerala Kalamandalam is reportedly advocating for the Chief Minister to assume the Chancellor's role. They are of the opinion that there will be no financial cost if the Chief Minister is made Chancellor.

According to sources, the demand has also been conveyed to the state's Cultural Affairs Department, with pressure mounting on the Cultural Affairs Minister to review Sarabhai's continuation in the position.

Sarabhai was appointed Chancellor of the deemed university in December 2022. Since then, the institution has been paying approximately ₹2 lakh every month towards the post, including an honorarium of ₹1.75 lakh and an additional ₹25,000 earmarked for office-related expenses.

Supporters of the proposal claim the institution's worsening financial condition makes such expenditure difficult to justify. They point out that Kerala Kalamandalam has struggled to disburse salaries to teaching and non-teaching staff on time, forcing it to draw from project funds to meet payroll obligations.

Those backing the change also argue that Sarabhai visits the institution only occasionally and that Kalamandalam does not maintain a dedicated office for the Chancellor. During official visits, the institution is required to bear expenses related to airfare, accommodation in premium hotels and local transport.

Another factor cited by those seeking the change is the evolving regulatory framework. Following recent University Grants Commission norms, the Chancellor no longer holds the authority to nominate members to the governing body, significantly reducing the functional powers attached to the office.