The State School Art Festival, the biggest youth arts festival in mainland Asia, riding in the glory of literature and tradition, came curtains down on Tuesday. The last five days saw sentiments, euphoria, winners emerging out of thin margins, and pressure over changing point tables, all in the gaiety and comfort of the capital city. More than 10000 people, including parents, teachers and other organizers, participated directly in the art festival, where two more venues were added compared to the previous year. Despite the large number of people participating, the art festival was held beautifully without complaints, disputes or conflicts. All this was a result of a meticulously planned organization.

Unlike in older times, no conflicts arose over ‘impartial’ judgments this time. The quality of the organization was commendable. The credit goes to Education Minister V Sivankutty. As a student leader and later as the mayor of the city, Sivankutty has proved his mettle in more than one department. His organisation records are impeccable and it came in handy during this arts festival. Minister of Education G.R. Anil, who also hails from the city was given organisational duties, which he performed with finesse.

The officials of the department including the director of public education, leaders of teachers' organizations, teachers, police, public servants, corporation employees and volunteers including NCC and scouts worked in tandem, day and night to make the whole event attain perfection. The students, their teachers, coaches and school authorities who participated in the art festival deserve a share of this success.

The performances from the newer generation of talents, and their dedication to art, literature and music, were received by the packed audience at each venue with awe. The opening day dance performance from Vellarmala school students moved every audience alike. The children covered the painful memories of the landslide disaster with their art. Their message was to have the resilience to come out unhurt from every adversity and it turned into one of the most beautiful sights from this year’s school arts festival.

For the first time, the presentation of dance forms that were hitherto performed only in tribal villages was enacted on the festival stage. Mohanan Namboothiri once again showed his adroitness in preparing sumptuous meals and kept the 'Pazhayidom' brand flying high. It was also fitting that the main stage was named 'MT-Nila' in memory of the beloved storyteller of Malayalam who passed away recently. Every student who participated in the competition will remember the memories from this festival for a long time.

We take this opportunity to convey our heartfelt appreciation to the entire team including the ministers who have worked hard to make this festival, something worth remembering.