Tears replace celebration on reopening day at Kerala school as beloved teacher passes away

Kottayam: Instead of the usual cheer and colour of a school reopening, the grounds of PNNM School in Thrikkothamangalam here were filled with tears and silence. Heartbroken parents tried to console children who broke down in sobs, while fellow teachers stood in quiet grief. Former students and guardians arrived with heavy hearts to catch a final glimpse of their beloved teacher Anupama. She had become a name synonymous with love, care and commitment—spending 31 years at the school shaping young lives.

The school was meant to host its ‘Praveshanolsavam’—the ceremonial welcome for students—on Monday. But, it turned into a day of mourning. After helping to prepare for the reopening festivities, S Anupama, a dedicated teacher, passed away on Sunday evening due to heart attack. She had spent her final days actively involved in decorating the school—making paper crowns, organising materials and planning the welcome with fellow staff. On Sunday, ahead of the reopening, she had also visited temples in Thrikkothamangalam, Udikkamala and Eravinalloor.

Anupama played a crucial role in helping the school win rolling trophies at sub-district arts festivals, and passionately encouraged students in both academic and extracurricular fields. Even during the pandemic, she guided students in poetry recitation, drawing, singing and more—going the extra mile to keep learning alive.

A public viewing was held at the school on the previous day at 1.30 pm. Representatives from various organisations, temple authorities, parents and community members gathered to pay their respects. The funeral was held on Tuesday at 11 am at the Kooroppada Padinjattakkara family cremation ground.