New Delhi: Gemini Sankaran, who pioneered the Indian circus and was the founder of Gemini Circus passed away at the age of 99 in Kannur. He was admitted to a private hospital for the past few days due to an age-related illness and family sources said that he died on the night of April 23. He is survived by two sons and a daughter.
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan paid condolences on his demise and hailed Sankaran for his contribution to the art of the Indian circus. Vijayan said that Gemini Sankaran played a major role in modernising the Indian circus as he included foreign performers and tricks. He added that his demise is a great loss for the nation.
The circus artist had close ties with various political leaders including CM Vijayan. In a picture shared by Malayalam writer N.S. Madhava, Sankaran can be seen with Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. The Government of India also honoured him with a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to the circus.
Father of Indian circus, lord of the ring, Gemini Sankaran passes away at 99. Some years ago, I had a meal with him, which in itself was an experience. Well laid table, full cutlery service, course following course. Most of all it was conversation. (Pic: to the right of Nehru) pic.twitter.com/WehSmlR0hS
— N.S. Madhavan (@NSMlive) April 24, 2023
He was born in 1924 and trained under noted circus artist Keeleri Kunhikannan for three years. Sankaran later went on to join the military and retired after World War II. He worked in various circus groups across the country and decided to purchase Vijaya Circus Company in 1951, which he renamed as Gemini Circus. Later, he started another circus company, Jumbo Circus.
As per PTI, Sankaran’s body is currently kept at his residence for the public to visit and pay homage. His last rites will be held at Payyambalam Beach on April 25, Tuesday.
