The 63rd Kalolsavam, a prominent school art festival, wrapped up in a dramatic way when the 5 times winner of the festival Thissur marked their name on the gold cup after a wait of 25 years.

The festival was celebrated on January 4-8, 2025, in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. Starting from the Central Stadium, where Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the event, participants came together to participate in 250 competitions, which were represented by over 15,000 participants and ran across 25 venues.

History Of Kalolsavam

Kalolsavam, derived from the Malayalam words "Kala" (art) and "Utsavam" (festival), is an annual cultural event that showcases artistic talent and creativity. It began in 1956-57 intending to help students in Kerala learn about their history and connect with their rich culture.

Kalolsavam: The Movement of Unity and Pluralism

A most interesting feature of Kalolsavam is the integration of participants irrespective of their differences. Every student from every district of Kerala irrespective of their economic or social background enjoys their art. This creates team spirit as well as making young people embrace their cultures as they learn what their predecessors did for the community.

Who Were The Top Schools?

The top schools were as follows:

1. BSS Gokuldham Higher School, Alathur, Palakkad, ranked first with 171 points.

2. Vazhuthacaud Carmel Higher Secondary School held the second position gaining 116 points.

3. Mananthavady MGMMHSS achieved third place with 106 points.

Glimpse of the Valedictory Session

The valedictory function, held at the central stadium, marked the grand finale of the four-day celebration. This year, opposition leader VD Satheesan inaugurated the ceremony. Special guests included Tovino Thomas and Asif Ali, two prominent figures in South Cinema.

Education Minister V Sivankutty awarded the golden trophy to the winners and announced the media awards.

The event also recognized notable contributors, such as Chirayinkeezh Sreekanadan Niar, who designed the golden trophy, and Pazhayidon Mohanan Namboothiri, who led the festival kitchen. Civil Supplies Minister G R Anil presided over the function. Speaker and several state cabinet ministers also joined him.

What Was Special About Kalolsavam 2025

This year's Kalolsavam was special as it featured five tribal art forms in the competition for the very first time.

Mangalamkali: A dance art form from the Mavilan and Malavettuvan communities in the Kasaragod and Kannur districts of Kerala.

Paniya Nritham: An endogamous dance of a matrilineal tribe of Kerala the Paniya from the Wayanad district.

Malapulayattam: A traditional art form practiced by the Malapulaya community in Idukki district of Kerala.

Irula Nritham: A dance of the Irula community from Attappady in Palakkad district of Kerala.

Paliya Nritham: An art form of the Paliya community of Idukki district in Kerala.

All these inclusions were done to showcase and honor the cultural capital of Kerala which belongs to the tribal population.

Impact on Students and Society

The festival goes beyond competition; it fosters character development and cultural preservation. Students gain confidence, discipline, and teamwork from their involvement. Furthermore, Kalolsavam plays a key role in reviving traditional art forms, helping younger generations appreciate and practice them.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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Ayushi is passionate about creating content that not only interests the reader but actually helps them add to their knowledge. Holding a degree in science, Ayushi is exploring her creative writing as she transforms ideas into compelling narratives that resonate with readers.