Students Break Tradition at Kerala's Premier School Festival
Kochi witnessed a historic moment at the State School Kalolsavam inaugural ceremony. For the first time in the festival's sixty-year history, students themselves took charge of anchoring the event. This bold move by the education department shifted the spotlight onto young talent.
The Confident Quartet Takes Center Stage
Four students captivated the audience with remarkable poise and clarity. Kanishk E H from GNBHS in Kodakara, Salvin P S of St Thomas College High School in Thrissur, Avantika Pramod from SHSS in Thevara, and Akshaya G of St Thomas Higher Secondary School in Mayannur formed the anchoring team. Their seamless presentation drew enthusiastic applause from the crowd.
The education department selected these anchors through competitive auditions. Interestingly, some of them are also active participants in various Kalolsavam competitions. They skillfully balanced their own rehearsal schedules with preparation for the anchoring duties.
Overcoming Challenges with Determination
Speaking about their experience, the students shared how they conquered stage fright. Hosting an event attended by eminent personalities including Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan presented a significant challenge. Avantika Pramod, a Class XII student who participates in Malayalam poetry writing, explained the responsibility they felt.
"This year's slogan is 'Responsible Kalolsavam,' and being entrusted with anchoring the inaugural event itself felt like both a responsibility and an honour," Avantika said. She added that balancing practice sessions with competition preparation was demanding but ultimately fulfilling.
Intensive Preparation Behind the Success
The four students received intensive grooming under the guidance of teachers Manju C, Ambili N V, Sudheesh T S and Indulekha K S. Their mentors revealed that rehearsals stretched late into Tuesday night to ensure flawless delivery during the actual event.
Teacher Ambili N V explained their selection process. "They were chosen from students who had proved their calibre on stage. A week of rigorous preparation, often extending to long hours, helped them overcome stage fear," she said.
Recognition from Dignitaries
The young anchors received personal appreciation from ministers and senior officials immediately after the program. This recognition became a moment of immense pride for the students.
"Right after the programme, ministers like V Sivankutty and Kadannappally Ramachandran congratulated us. That meant everything," said Kanishk E H, reflecting on the experience.
The students will return to center stage when they anchor the Kalolsavam's concluding ceremony on Sunday, completing their historic participation in this cultural extravaganza.
