The Kochi Municipal Corporation’s ambitious proposal to acquire the childhood home of legendary singer K. J. Yesudas and convert it into a museum has run into immediate resistance from the current property owner.In its 2026–27 budget presented earlier this week, the civic body earmarked ₹6 crore to establish a museum at the Bastion Road residence in Fort Kochi and develop a “musical street” in tribute to the iconic singer, fondly known as ‘Ganagandharvan’. The initiative was envisioned as both a cultural landmark and a tourism booster for the heritage precinct.
However, C A Nazer, a Fort Kochi-based trader who owns the property and operates a hotel and restaurant there, has categorically stated that he has no plans to hand over the building. He also pointed out that the corporation has not approached him regarding the proposal.Nazer said he had renovated the heritage structure after purchasing it from a previous owner and has preserved its historic elements, including a 70-year-old mango tree planted by Yesudas’ mother. The tree, reportedly of deep emotional significance to the singer, remains the centrepiece of the property and is part of Fort Kochi’s heritage trail. According to Nazer, even during renovation, care was taken to retain the tree, with the structure built around it.
He added that Yesudas’ family and friends continue to visit and water the tree, and that he himself had considered setting up a small museum on the first floor to honour the musician’s legacy.Deputy Mayor Deepak Joy said discussions with the owner would begin once State government approval is secured. He noted that the project would be financed through a combination of the corporation’s own funds, State assistance and support from other agencies. A detailed project report is to be prepared by the Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development, an agency under the civic body. Consultations are also proposed with the National Cultural Trust regarding operational aspects.
Cultural observers believe the museum could significantly enhance Kochi’s artistic profile if implemented through consensus. Poet and lyricist R K Damodaran said that honouring Yesudas through a dedicated space could attract music lovers and strengthen the city’s cultural identity, particularly in Fort Kochi, one of Kerala’s most visited tourist hubs.While the proposal holds promise for boosting heritage tourism and preserving musical history, its progress now hinges on negotiations and mutual agreement — a reminder that even well-intentioned cultural initiatives require careful groundwork and stakeholder engagement.
Kochi Corporation’s Yesudas museum plan faces hurdle
