My steps perfected at school arts festivals: Manju Warrier reflects on her artistic journey

In a heartfelt response to a recent report by Mathrubhumi about her dance teacher N. V. Krishnan, actress and dancer Manju Warrier expressed her gratitude and nostalgia for the influence of school art festivals on her life and career. The report, which shared the teacher’s fond memories of his disciple, was sent to her by a friend, and upon reading it, Manju said that she felt a deep sense of pride and respect.

Manju Warrier shared how the words of her beloved Guru took her back to her school days, particularly the annual art festivals that played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic journey. "Every year, during the month of Vrischikam (Malayalam month), the school art festivals bring back a flood of memories. That’s where my footsteps in dance began. I owe a lot to these festivals," she said.

Grateful for the support she received early on, Manju expressed her desire to give back to the art community. She shared that she has provided study assistance and others to talented dancers who excelled in school festivals, hoping to support their dreams of becoming professional artists. "It is heartwarming to know that they are still dancing today," she added.

The actress also reminisced about her time living in Kannur, where she participated in school art festivals, especially in Payyannur, a place she fondly recalls. "When I read Krishnan Mash’s memories of my dance performances at the temple ground in Payyannur, it felt like the past had come alive again," Manju said.

She expressed her hope for more young talents to emerge from places like Payyannur, eventually reaching the stage of state art festivals and global platforms. “Greetings from an old arts festival kid," she concluded.