A disciple of Guru Chengannur Raman Pillai, Nair was drawn to Kathakali while he was only 13 years of age and was one of the last practitioners of the South Kerala style school of classical dance.

Ravana, Duroyodhana, Keechakka and Kamsan were among the favourite subjects he liked to portray on stage through Kathakali, the classical dance drama which is distinguished by its elaborate colourful make up, costumes and face mask. He is survived by wife, two daughters and a son.