വെള്ളിക്കോത്ത് വിഷ്ണുഭട്ട്
Carnatic classical vocalist, music director, social activist. National Award–winning teacher whose music has crossed stages, streets, and lives for four decades.
Kudre Kodlu Vishnu Bhat — known to the world as Vellikkoth Vishnu Bhat — was born into a family steeped in musical heritage. His maternal grandfather, the veteran Yakshagana artist Mambadi Narayana Bhagavathar, and his paternal lineage through Kuthire Kodlu Rama Bhat and Sheni Gopala Krishna Bhat gave him music as birthright.
He began his classical training under Guru Kunduvalappil Narayana Bhagavathar, immersing in the guru-shishya tradition before joining the prestigious Palakkad Chembai Memorial Government Music College, where he earned his Ganabhooshanam with distinction — winning First/Second place at the All-Kerala Music Competition at the college's Silver Jubilee Celebrations.
For 30 years he served as Music Teacher in Kasaragod district schools under the Kerala Government, shaping thousands of young musicians. He received the National Award for Best Teachers (2000) and the State Award for Best Teachers (2019). He served as a Music Teacher at Parampara Vidyapeetam Gosala in Periya, Kasaragod.
His life is defined not only by concerts and compositions, but by Sangeetha Yatras — journeys where music became the medium for social transformation: against drugs, for literacy, for unity, for peace. From bullock carts to television screens, his voice has never stopped moving.
Vellikkoth Vishnu Bhat on stage — the voice of his devotion
In devotion
A portrait
On stage
Speaking of music
Early years
Classical concertOn stage
Moment of musicOver three decades, these journeys used song as a vehicle to speak what speeches could not.
For concert bookings, music therapy sessions, Sangeetha Yatra collaborations, or any enquiries about his work.