Stage ready for School Kalolsavam

Thrissur is leaving no stone unturned to welcome participants to the 64th Kerala School School Arts Festival, with the launch of the ‘Chaare’ project and the traditional Golden Cup procession adding to the festive fervour on Tuesday. The ‘Chaare’ initiative, inaugurated by Minister for General Education V. Sivankutty, aims to offer a warm reception to students arriving for the festival.

As part of the project, Higher Secondary National Service Scheme (NSS) units across the district distributed essential items to students, promoted the reuse of materials, and ensured that non-recyclable waste was handed over to the Harithakarma Sena. By engaging NSS volunteers throughout Thrissur, the initiative integrates environmental conservation with social responsibility, presenting a model for a ‘responsible Kalolsavam.’

In the run-up to the festival, NSS green volunteers spearheaded extensive cleaning drives across the city, supported by more than 200 teachers, sanitation workers, and volunteers from the Thrissur Corporation and Suchitwa Mission. Major venues, including Thekkinkadu Maidan, Town Hall, dining areas, and schools hosting competitions, were thoroughly cleaned and readied to receive participants. District Collector Arjun Pandyan, Director of Public Education N.S.K. Umesh, Deputy Director of Education P.M. Balakrishnan, along with other officials and volunteers, took part in the inauguration.

Complementing these preparations, the festival’s large-scale food arrangements were inaugurated by Mr. Sivankutty. Organisers expect to serve nearly 60,000 meals over the four-day event, prepared using locally sourced ingredients such as coconuts and fresh vegetables collected from students. Renowned chef Pazhayidam Mohanan Namboothiri is leading the culinary team, with the support of Mayor Niji Justine, district officials, political representatives, and the festival food committee. The traditional ‘Palukachal’ ceremony marked the formal opening of the food pavilion.

Meanwhile, the Golden Cup procession, held on January 12 and 13 across various Assembly constituencies, culminated at Town Hall on Tuesday evening. Nearly 1,000 students, accompanied by NCC, NSS, and SPC cadets, ceremonially received the trophy. Thrissur, which reclaimed the coveted title last year after a 25-year hiatus by a narrow one-point margin over Palakkad, is keen to defend its championship this year.

With thousands of volunteers, environmentally conscious initiatives, and carefully coordinated food and logistical arrangements, Thrissur is fully prepared to host the 64th Kerala School Kalolsavam as a celebration that seamlessly blends culture, community, and festivity.