After the Valparai tragedy, the Pang schoolboys turn to art to heal

Students of Government LP and UP Schools, Pang, presenting the Kuchipudi dance move during the valedictory five-day arts camp on Tuesday. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

On Tuesday afternoon (July 21), the stage at Government UP School, Pang, was filled with music, dancing and applause. For many in the audience, the performance was more than just a cultural program. They were a sign that children scarred by one of the worst tragedies to hit the school community are slowly starting to smile again.

Students of Government LP School, Pang, were trying to recover from the trauma of a road accident at Valparai near Pollachi on April 17. Almost all of the school’s teachers were killed when the van carrying the 12-member tour group went off a cliff and fell more than 300 feet down the mountainside. The school was left with only one surviving teacher.

A five-day art workshop was organized in collaboration with the Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Youth Culture (SPIC MACAY) to help the children recover. Students from LP and UP schools participated.

Students rehearsing classical music lessons during a five-day workshop. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Over the course of five days, the children immersed themselves in Carnatic music, Kuchipudi, clay modeling and Chittara painting. Their enthusiasm and willingness to learn surprised even the coaches. By the final day on Tuesday, they were ready to present what they had learned in front of parents and local people.

The closing program featured Carnatic music and performances by Kuchipudi, while clay models by students and paintings by Chittara were also on display. The audience responded with sustained applause. Many also wiped away tears as they watched the children perform.

Students of Government LP School, Pang and their teachers with the clay models they made during the five-day workshop. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Music classes were conducted by Carnatic musician Vellinezhi Subramanyam. Vidhya S. taught Kuchipudi, Ishwar Naik engaged in Chittara painting and Chellam Meyyer conducted clay modeling classes.

SPIC MACAY Regional Coordinator Unni Variar and PK Program Coordinators Subhash and Jayaram supervised the workshop.

The valedictorians began by paying tribute to the teachers who died in the Valparai accident. Speakers said the loss of a school community can never be replaced, but arts and culture can help children regain hope, confidence and creativity.

A parent appreciating the clay work done by students of LP and UP Government Schools in Pangu. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The workshop was coordinated by UP School Principal K. Ahammedkutty with the support of teachers and parents. Teachers M. Fathima Suhra, V. Sujatha, U. Aboobacker, K. Kanchana, K. Vaseema, KK Rakhi, K. Hasanath, Sameena, K. Rupashree, KK Safiya, Abdul Hakeem and Nabeel supported the children throughout the program.

Hundreds of parents and residents attended the closing ceremony.

“The workshop showed that children from rural schools can achieve high artistic standards if given proper training and opportunities,” said Mr. Subhash. “Art cannot erase painful memories, but it can help children find strength, hope and joy again.”

Published – 21 Jul 2026 20:27 IST