Kollam is all set to host one of the largest School Arts Festivals in Asia
Kicking off on January 4 in Ashramam Maidanam, the 62nd State School Arts Festival is expected to see the participation of more than 14,000 bright students in 239 competitions on 23 stages over five days.
The gold cup to be awarded as the insignia of ultimate feat in the festival, will embark on a ceremonial procession from the previous champions, Kozhikode, to its new home in Kollam.
The Director of General Education will hoist the flag at the main stage near Ashramam Maidanam at 9 am, marking the official beginning of the festival. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will then inaugurate the Kalotsavam at 10 am on the same day, as announced by Education Minister V Sivankutty.
The festival’s first session will showcase performances by differently-abled students, including Chenda Melam, Mayilattam, Singari Melam, and Kalaripayattu, starting at 9 am.
Following this, at 10 am, renowned cine artist and dancer Asha Sharat will present a dance performance along with school students.
The sprawling pandal of Kollam Ashramam Maidanam, capable of accommodating 10,000 spectators, will serve as the primary venue for the festival. It has been erected by team of workers from various organizations has ensuring the venue is spick and span.
Besides this, the festival has also gone digital this year, showcasing real-time information about competition timings at KITE Ulsavam app, which offer venue closing times, and other essential details.
