After Valparai tragedy, Pang schoolchildren turn to art for healing
On Tuesday afternoon (July 21), the stage at Government UP School, Pang, was filled with music, dance, and applause. For many in the audience, the
On Tuesday afternoon (July 21), the stage at Government UP School, Pang, was filled with music, dance, and applause. For many in the audience, the performances were more than a cultural programme. They were a sign that children scarred by one of the worst tragedies to hit a school community were slowly beginning to smile again. The students of Government LP School, Pang, have been trying to recover from the trauma of the road accident at Valparai near Pollachi on April 17. Almost all the teachers of the school were killed when a van carrying a 12-member excursion group plunged off a cliff and fell more than 300 feet down the mountainside.
The school was left with only one surviving teacher. To help the children heal, a five-day arts workshop was organised in association with the Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth (SPIC MACAY). Students of both the LP and UP schools took part. Over five days, the children immersed themselves in Carnatic music, Kuchipudi, clay modelling, and Chittara painting. Their enthusiasm and willingness to learn surprised even the trainers. By the final day on Tuesday, they were ready to present what they had learnt before parents and local people. The closing programme featured Carnatic music and Kuchipudi performances, while the students’ clay models and Chittara paintings were also displayed.
The audience responded with sustained applause. Many also wiped away tears as they watched the children perform. Carnatic musician Vellinezhi Subramanyam led the music classes. Vidhya S. taught Kuchipudi, Ishwar Naik handled Chittara painting and Chellam Meyyer led the clay modelling sessions. SPIC MACAY regional coordinator Unni Variar and programme coordinators P.K. Subhash and Jayaram oversaw the workshop. The valedictory function began with a tribute to the teachers who died in the Valparai accident. Speakers said the loss to the school community could never be replaced, but art and culture could help children regain hope, confidence and creativity. Government UP School headmaster K. Ahammedkutty coordinated the workshop with the support of teachers and parents.
Teachers M. Fathima Suhra, V. Sujatha, U. Aboobacker, K. Kanchana, K. Vaseema, K.K. Rakhi, K. Hasanath, Sameena, K. Rupashree, K.K. Safiya, Abdul Hakeem and Nabeel supported the children throughout the programme. Hundreds of parents and residents attended the closing ceremony. “The workshop showed that children from rural schools can achieve high standards in the arts when given proper training and opportunities,” said Mr. Subhash. “Art cannot erase painful memories, but it can help children find strength, hope and joy again.”
The BriefWire