Vidyarambham across Kerala as children embrace learning; Thunchan Smarakam marks 1st ceremony since MT’s passing

Kozhikode: The Vidyarambham ceremony, marking the symbolic beginning of a child's learning journey, is being observed across Kerala today with great enthusiasm. Throughout the state, young children will write their first letters, stepping into the world of knowledge. Celebrations are to take place not only in temples but also in educational institutions, media houses, and cultural centres.

Preparations were completed well in advance at the Thunchan Parambu in Tirur, a key venue for the event. Thousands from both within Kerala and beyond have gathered here to write their first syllable, transcending barriers of caste and religion. This year's event is the first Vidyarambham ceremony at the Thunchan Memorial since the passing of the beloved Malayalam writer and former Chairman of the Thunchan Memorial Trust, MT Vasudevan Nair.

Traditional ‘ezhuthaashaans’ or gurus such as Vazhuthacaud Muralidharan, PC Sathyanarayanan, and Prabheesh Panicker will guide children in the Krishnashila Mandapam. In the Saraswati Mandapam, 40 prominent Malayalam writers will help children inscribe the auspicious phrase ‘Harisree’ on rice-filled silver platters using their index fingers.

Vidyarambham ceremonies are also ongoing at the Thunchan Memorial in Iranimuttom, Thiruvananthapuram, where children will be writing their first letters using sacred sand brought from the Thunchan Memorial in Tirur.

Major temples across the state experienced heavy footfall on the occasion. The famed Paravur Dakshina Mookambika Temple in Ernakulam and the Panachikkadu Temple in Kottayam began ceremonies early morning. Celebrations were also held at Chottanikkara Temple in Ernakulam and the Thiruvullakkavu Temple in Cherpu, Thrissur.

The day also marks the commencement of learning in traditional performing arts like music, dance, and instrumental training. Books and tools of trade, which were offered in prayer on Durga Ashtami, are now taken up again for use following the rituals performed on Vijayadashami.

Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is associated with various legends across India. Some are linked to the Ramayana and Mahabharata, while another enduring belief is that it marks the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. According to legend, Durga fought Mahishasura for nine days and nights, finally defeating him and restoring peace on Earth.