While excellence in charity, creative writing, the arts, or professional leadership is a notable feat, the synthesis of all these paths into a single life is a rare achievement.

Known affectionately as “VTV” by those closest to him.

V. T. V. Damodaran embodies a unique intersection of humanitarian, artistic and democratic values.

For over three decades, his contributions have been instrumental in making the United Arab Emirates (“UAE”) a welcoming second home for the Indian diaspora. Above all, he has distinguished himself as a champion of international diplomacy, serving as a key architect to honor Mahatma Gandhi—one of history’s most influential global leaders, who secured his nation's freedom through a steadfast, non-violent struggle.

A dedicated socio-cultural and humanitarian, V.T.V. Damodaran hails from the Indian state of Kerala. An Arts graduate with specialized qualifications in Personnel Management, he has called Abu Dhabi his home for over three decades. Currently, he serves as a Senior Consultant at PKF UAE, one of the most prominent Chartered Accountancy firms in the capital.


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➼ An Organizer Par Excellence

Organizing social, cultural, and charitable activities is the forte of VTV, as evident from the list given below:

⚪  Being a keen follower of the values propagated by Mahatma Gandhi, he founded the organization called Gandhi Sahithya Vedi in Abu Dhabi to promote the Gandhian ideals among the younger generation. His long-cherished dream was realized, through his relentless efforts, on
1st February 2018 by erecting the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the entrance of the India Social & Cultural Center, Abu Dhabi (“ISC”). It was for the first time a Gandhi statue was installed in the UAE. The statue was unveiled by H.E. the Indian Ambassador to the UAE. This achievement was greatly applauded by the entire community and the international media.
⚪ He later installed a Charkha (spinning wheel) at the main entrance of the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. The Charkha was a vital tool of the Indian freedom movement and a symbol of economic self-reliance.
⚪ As an ardent admirer of the value system practiced in the Arabian lives, he has been keenly promoting the Arab culture and the contributions of H.H. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Father of the Nation and other UAE leaders among the Indian children of various schools with the co-operation of the Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi.
⚪ He has been actively involved in various humanitarian activities in
Abu Dhabi as well as in India to assist the less-privileged compatriots.
⚪ He played a pivotal role in assisting Indian nationals during the amnesty period announced by the UAE government.
⚪ He facilitated medical financing for hundreds of impoverished patients across Abu Dhabi and Kerala.
⚪ He has been coordinating in the repatriation of mortal remains to various countries, providing a vital service to grieving families.
⚪ He has been instrumental in providing sustainable housing for numerous underprivileged families in his native country.

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➼ His other significant social activities are channelized through the following roles:
⦾ Director of Malabar Rehabilitation Centre for the Differently Abled - an Institution for mentally & physically challenged children, Payyanur, Kerala.
⦾ Active supporter of HOPE, Kerala - a shelter home for mentally & physically challenged, aged, and orphans.
⦾ Active supporter - Anjali Vidyaniketan, Kerala, a shelter home for mentally & physically challenged women.
⦾ Founder and President - Gandhi Sahithya Vedi, Abu Dhabi.
⦾ Founder member - Keltron Blood Donors Forum, Kerala.
⦾ Active member - India Social & Cultural Centre, Abu Dhabi.
⦾ Active member - Abu Dhabi Malayali Samajam, Abu Dhabi.
⦾ Active member - Kerala Social Centre, Abu Dhabi.
⦾ Co-ordinator - Endosulphan Victims’ Support Aid Group, Abu Dhabi.
⦾ Former Co-ordinator of “Gulfarangu” - a popular talk show on Asianet Television.

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➼ A Champion of Indo-Arab Relations
Embodying a global perspective, VTV has spearheaded numerous cross-cultural initiatives, including:"
⦿ Served as a Lead Coordinator for the 2009 Indo-Arab Cultural Festival, organized by the Kerala Social Centre in Abu Dhabi.
⦿ In March 2016, organized the Indo-Arab Cultural Festival in Payyanur, India. The event was graced by H.E. Dr. Khalid Al Dhanhani, the Honorary President of the Fujairah Cultural Centre and a leading figure in Arab poetry and media, who served as the Chief Guest.
⦿ Recognized as the only non-Arab poet invited to the 2020 Mountain Cultural Festival, held by the Fujairah Cultural Centre under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi.

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➼ A Creative Writer of Proven Caliber
VTV is widely recognized for his poetic creativity, earning acclaim from both the public and UAE government institutions. He has authored numerous significant works, with a particular focus on Emirati culture and its visionary leaders, including the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Originally written in Malayalam, his poems have been translated into Arabic and English and featured in the “Abu Dhabi Government’s 999 Magazine”. His work is frequently broadcast on television and radio due to popular demand.

Furthermore, VTV has had the honor of presenting his poetry to esteemed leaders, including H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. He has also contributed notable articles to leading Arabic and Malayalam dailies, particularly in commemoration of the National Days of both his host and home nations.

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➼  An Accomplished Folklorist & Performing Artist
His dedicated efforts to promote traditional folklore and his impactful cultural contributions are detailed below:

◘ Legacy & Recognition: As the son of the late K.U. Rama Poduval—a renowned exponent of Payyanur Kolkkali and a Kerala Folklore Academy award winner—VTV began mastering this 400-year-old folk art at the age of six. He later achieved the distinction of becoming the first and only Non-Resident Indian (NRI) to be honoured with the same prestigious Kerala Folklore Academy award.
◘ Regional Expansion: Under his leadership and tutelage, Kolkkali has been introduced to and performed across various regions of the Gulf, bringing this traditional art to an international stage.
◘ Preservation through Media: To preserve and popularize this heritage, he produced the acclaimed documentary Kelipperuma, which received widespread recognition for its cultural depth.
◘ Cultural Patriotism: He composed and released a music album dedicated to his hometown, Payyanur, highlighting its pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle. The project aims to instil a sense of heritage and identity within the younger generation.
◘ Historic Events: He served as the Chief Organizer of the Payyanur Kala Mela in Abu Dhabi (2009). This landmark event was the first full-fledged Indian folk cultural festival ever hosted in the capital.
◘ Cinematic Contributions: His artistic versatility extends to the silver screen, having performed in three Malayalam feature films.

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➼ A Distinguished Recipient of Numerous Awards & Honours
In recognition of his unique contributions and selfless service to society, VTV has been honoured by various governmental and non-governmental organizations with several prestigious awards and titles.

His major accolades include:
⁍ Humanity & Cultural Harmony Award: India Social & Cultural Centre, Abu Dhabi – The premier socio-cultural organisation and the apex body of the registered Indian association. (2026);
⁍ Folklore Academy Award: Government of Kerala (2005);
⁍ Mahathma Award: UUKMA, UK (2020);
⁍ Best Social Activist of the Year: World Malayali Council (2008);
⁍ First Kerala Gandhigram Award: (2012);
⁍ Akshya National Award: Akshya Pusthaka Nidhi (2010);
⁍ Master of Folklore Award: India Social & Cultural Centre, Abu Dhabi (2012);
⁍ Pravasi Samskrithi Puraskaram: Malayala Bhasha Padasala, Kannur (2009);
⁍ Outstanding Pravasi Puraskaram: Rotary Club of Payyanur Mid Town (2010);
⁍ Special Award: Souhruda Vedi of Qatar, presented by the Indian Ambassador to Qatar (2011);
⁍ Pattum Valayum: A traditional honour featuring a golden bangle and sacred cloth, presented by the SN College Alumni Association, Abu Dhabi (2008);
⁍ Kalaniketan State Award: Kala Niketan Trust, Kasargod (2014);
⁍ Chirayankiizhu Ansar Award: Union of Malayali Music and Arts, Abu Dhabi (2016).

Demonstrating his commitment to community service, he channeled the monetary proceeds from these honors toward medical aid for those in need.

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➼  Special Recognition & Commendations
In addition to formal awards, VTV has received high-level honours for his pivotal role in cultural diplomacy and community service:

○ Diplomatic Commendation: Honoured by the Ambassador of India to the UAE, H.E. Navdeep Singh Suri, in recognition of his leadership and initiative in the historic installation of the Mahatma Gandhi statue in Abu Dhabi;

○ Civic Honor: Recognized by the Indira Gandhi Veekshanam Forum for his contributions to the Gandhi statue project, with the honours presented by the former Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. Oommen Chandy;

○ Community Tribute: Honoured by the citizens of his hometown, Payyanur, for his lifelong contributions to culture and society. To mark the occasion, a commemorative souvenir titled Maruneeru (The Desert Spring) was published, chronicling his journey and achievements.

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➼ A Professional of Impeccable Track Record
VTV began his professional journey as a Stenographer with KELTRON, one of India's premier Public Sector Electronics Corporations under the Government of Kerala.

Since August 1995, he has been a mainstay at PKF UAE, a leading firm of Accountants and Business Advisers. Serving as a Senior Consultant in the Abu Dhabi office for over three decades, he has played a vital role in the firm’s long-standing success in the region.

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➼ A Family Man Guided by Compassion
Born in 1955 to the late Mr. K.U. Rama Poduval and Mrs. Narayani Amma in the village of Annur, North Kerala, VTV’s character was forged within the traditional joint family system. These early years instilled in him the core values of love, empathy, and cooperation—principles that have moulded his humanitarian outlook and defined his professional journey.

VTV is married to Nirmala, whose support as a homemaker has been central to their family life. They are blessed with two children: their daughter, Aiswarya, who is married to Ranjith Poduval; and their son, Vaisakh, a Civil Engineer, who is married to Hitha. VTV currently resides with his family in Abu Dhabi, maintaining deep ties to his roots while embracing his long-standing home in the UAE.

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➼ A Dedicated Humanitarian
A social worker with a deep-seated passion for championing the causes of his underprivileged fellow citizens, VTV is a widely respected figure within the community. His tireless advocacy and service have earned him numerous prestigious awards and commendations.