Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the State School Arts Festival in Thrissur on Wednesday. | Photo credit: KK Mustafah
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday highlighted the transformative power of art at the inaugural function of the State School Art Festival.
“Art is not only about creating joy; it must also inspire courage to fight division and discrimination. At a time when even Christmas celebrations are under attack, young artists must use art as a weapon to spread peace and happiness against those who spread hate. Art must face harsh realities and change lives.”
Union Minister of State for Tourism Suresh Gopi, who was also on the dais, refrained from making any remarks, saying he did not want to use the venue for political reactions.
Earlier, BJP workers welcomed Mr. Gopi with lotus flowers at the venue of the Kerala State School Arts Festival, following earlier protests against the exclusion of the lotus from the names of the venues. The matter was later settled, with Education Minister V. Sivankutty stressing that the festival should take place without controversy.
Published – 14 Jan 2026 21:38 IST
