INTER-SCHOOL POOKALAM COMPETITION

REPORT INTER-SCHOOL POOKALAM COMPETITION
1. St. George’s School, Alaknanda, hosted an Inter-School Pookalam Competition on
31st July, 2026, celebrating the cultural richness and heritage of Kerala. The event
commenced with participants from various schools meticulously creating their
Pookalams, showcasing their creativity, dedication and appreciation for this
traditional floral art form.
The formal ceremony began with the lighting of the lamp, symbolising the
auspicious beginning of the event. This was followed by a soulful hymn that set a
serene and pleasant tone for the proceedings. The welcome address extended a warm
welcome to the Honourable Director Ma’am, Respected Principal Ma’am,
supervisors, teachers and participants from the various schools. The esteemed judges
of the competition were also formally welcomed and acknowledged.
Following the welcome address, the audience was treated to a captivating cultural
programme. A vibrant Onam dance performance showcased the exuberance of
Pulikali, the traditional Tiger Dance, along with the energy and excitement of
Vallamkali, the famous snake boat race of Kerala. The performance beautifully
reflected the spirit of unity, strength and celebration associated with the festival of
Onam.
This was followed by the address of Respected Principal Ma’am, who welcomed all
the participating teams and appreciated their efforts and enthusiasm. She encouraged
the students to continue taking part in such activities that help them appreciate and
preserve India’s rich cultural heritage. In her inspiring address, she remarked that
the event was much more than a competition—it was a celebration of India’s diverse
culture, traditions and heritage. She emphasised that the true essence of such
programmes lies not merely in winning, but in learning and growing together. She
highlighted how creating the Pookalam designs encouraged teamwork, creativity
and mutual respect, as participants collaborated, shared ideas and appreciated one
another’s perspectives. She also mentioned that such experiences help students to
develop important life skills alongside artistic expression.

2. The highlight of the event was the Prize Distribution Ceremony. St. Thomas Senior
Secondary School, Faridabad, secured the First Prize, while Paul George Global
School won the Second Prize. During the Prize Distribution Ceremony, each
participant of the First Prize-winning team received an individual prize and
certificate, while the school was presented with a trophy. The participants of the
Second Prize-winning team were also felicitated with individual prizes and
certificates.
The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to the
participating schools, esteemed judges, teachers, students and everyone who
contributed to the successful conduct of the event. The ceremony came to a dignified
close with the National Anthem.
The competition provided a wonderful platform for students to celebrate the beauty
of Kerala’s traditions while demonstrating creativity, cooperation, teamwork and
team spirit. It was a memorable celebration of culture, bringing together students
from different schools in the spirit of participation, learning and togetherness.