C.G. Govindan Namboothiri was born on Feb 15, 1935 in Chandramana illam, Asamannoor. His father is C.S. Govindan Namboodiri and mother is Devaki Antharjanam. His primary education is 7th.

He learned Kathakali from 1947 under Kavunkal Chathunni Panikkar. After the 3 years study in Kerala he went to Darpana Academy of Performing Arts, Ahmedabad with him and continued higher studies along with the job there. Apart from Kavunkal Chathunni Panikkar, Kalamandalam Krishnan Nair and Mankulam Vishnu Namboothiri helped him to become a good Kathakali artist.

Has expertised in "Pacha", "Kathi" and "Minukku" characters.

He is performing Kathakali in temples and Kathakali Clubs. Has received many awards from many Kathakali Clubs. He got the award from Kerala Sahithya Academy in 1994-1995, and in 1997-1998 he got senior "Fellowship" for the research on 'Ilakiyattam' from Dept of Human Resources. In 1999 he was awarded "Thulasivanam" award for classical arts.

Family: Wife and four sons.